LAOS

Vientiane | Luang Prabang | Mekong River

Low-key Laos is not among the "Asian tigers," the group of small- and medium-sized nations that have embarked on ambitious, high-energy growth plans. Rather, Laos is more like the Asian silkworm, living within an elegant cocoon, hoping to be allowed to develop at its own pace, in relative isolation. Laos is landlocked and lies between Thailand, Myanmar, China, Vietnam and Cambodia.  The Mekong River forms the country's western border and the Annamite mountains form its eastern border with Vietnam.  The total land area is approximately 237,000 sq km - an area similar to that of the United Kingdom.  The main features of the country are its mountains and the Mekong River valley.

There are no intercontinental flights to Vientiane.   Most people coming to Laos will come via Bangkok, the nearest International hub.  By far the easiest, cheapest, most reliable, frequent and interesting way to get to Laos by air is to use Thai Airways' domestic flight to Udon Thani. 

Laos' isolation from foreign influence offers travellers an unparalleled glimpse of traditional southeast Asian life. From the fertile lowlands of the Mekong River valley to the rugged Annamite highlands, Laos is the highlight of southeast Asia. 

After two decades of isolation from the outside world, this landlocked, sparsely populated country is enjoying peace, stabilising its political and economic structures, and admitting foreign visitors - albeit in limited numbers, owing to a general lack of infrastructure.

Although travel in Laos is generally hassle-free, travellers should be aware of the risk of rural banditry, unexploded ordnance and sporadic violence in and around Vientiane. Travellers have been inadvertently targeted in several attacks on buses travelling to and from the capital.

Visas:

Visas are issued upon arrival in Laos to foreign tourists and business persons with two passport size photographs and $30 at Wattay Airport, Vientiane; Friendship Bridge, Vientiane; and Luang Prabang Airport. Visas on Arrival are not available at the Chong Mek border crossing. Foreign tourists are generally admitted to Laos for 15 days with a visa on arrival or for 30 days with a visa issued at a Lao embassy. The Department of Immigration in Vientiane will only extend tourist visas for one day.

Climate:

Laos has three distinct seasons, all with their advantages and disadvantages.  The best time to visit overall is the cool season, between November and February.  By November, the rains are usually over, all rivers are navigable and roads are pasable.

The hot season, from March to May is very dry, but in some places, around Lao New Year, 14th - 16th April, accomodation of your choice may be harder to find.   During this time, some rivers are harder to navigate, and boat journeys in remote places may not be possible.

The rainy season, from June to October, whilst the country at its most beautiful and lush, can be difficult to get around in remote places by road.  Rivers are always accesible at this time.

Vientiane

Vientiane, capital of Laos is Asia's biggest village.  Busy and hectic in comparison to the rest of the country, it is quiet compared with any other city in Asia.  Vientiane, as all of Lao's major cities, is situated on the Mekong river which forms the lifeline of the country. Vientiane is the hub for all travel in the country.  The city has a population of 450,000, about 10% of the country.

Vientiane is a city full of surprises.  Here you can find fields of rice and vegetables, agriculture hidden behind tree lined avenues.  French Colonial architecture sits next to gilded temples.  Freshly baked French bread is served next to shops selling noodle soup.  There is little modern in Vientiane.  Old French colonial houses are being restored as offices and as restaurants and hotels. There are only a handful of modern buildings which sometimes look remarkably out of place in this quiet capital.

Pronounced Vieng Chan, the capital of Laos is a slow paced, clean city. People are wondeful and the general athmosphere is relaxing. Only the pavement is badly in need of some repairs. And when it rains some streets are flooded.

In Vientiane (and in Laos generally) there are many monks. They are very friendly and often speak good English. All of them are eager to learn, so it is very probable that you'll get invited to a chat (and some tea or Milo (chocolate milk)). They do not expect presents, but they are happy about them (and used to them, at least from the local people), especially since they are not earning money and don't get support from the government. English books make good presents, it enables them practice that otherwise would be far too expensive.

Don't miss the Morning Market. There are all kinds of goods from Laos. Especially recommended is a closer look at the silk and cotton weavings. There are also many "antique" stands, selling supposedly old and original artifacts. Many small food stalls sell a wide variety of food. You don't need to be an early bird to enjoy it, since the burning down of the Evening Market, the Morning Market stays open all day.

Novotel - 4 Star

Location:

Novotel Vientiane, ideally located within minutes of Wattay International airport, the majestic Mekong River, and the main commercial and shopping districts, offers 220 well-appointed guest rooms with modern features. As the first hotel of international standing in the capital of Laos, Novotel Vientiane offers the international traveller superb and leisure facilities in luxurious surroundings.

Accommodation:

There are 168 guestrooms which are categorised as Standard, Superior and Executive Suite. Both the Standard and Superior enjoy an ample space of 30 square metres and has a king size bed or twin bed configuration. The Executive Suite stands on an area of 60 square metres and has a king size bed. All rooms can accommodate an additional bed for a third person.

The Executive Club offers first class accommodation and is equipped with in-room safe, fax machine, VCR and an exclusive lounge for complimentary breakfast and evening drinks.  All guestrooms provide an en-suite bathroom, air-conditioning, direct dial telephone, minibar, satellite TV with in-house movies, tea/coffee making facilities, in-room laptop port and in-room fax.

Facilities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Tennis court
• Fitness centre
• Sauna/spa
• Games room
• Lao traditional massage
• Conference facilities
• Business centre
• Laundry service
• Parking
• Tour desk
• Shopping arcade

Dining:

• 24 Hour Coffee Shop
• Pool Terrace Bar
• Banana Cafe
• 24 Hour room service

Lao Plaza Hotel - 4 Star

Location:

Lao has remained virtually unchanged for half a century. Rich in history  and culture, Lao and its people  harmonize life to ancient rhythms and traditions that evoke timeless Asia.
In a capital city which is famous for its  temples and monuments, Lao Plaza Hotel has been created to dominate the growing  skyline.

The hotel is ideally located in the Vientiane Business District and only 10 minutes away from the International Airport.

Accommodation:

The hotel's opening provides Laos with it's first taste of international class luxury accommodation. The seven floors, highest in Vientiane, contain 142 delightful rooms and suites.

The appeal of a decor strongly influenced by Lao culture is thoughtfully complemented by rooms with every conceivable modern convenience. Each has a command console, putting control of the satellite TV, Direct access to Internet from rooms, door locks, maid service, wake up calls, room temperature control and more, at your fingertips.

In-room amenities include: En-suite bathroom, direct dial telephone, computer data ports, individually controlled air-conditioning, minibar, satellite TV, tea/coffee maker, hairdryer and internet/E-mail access.

Facilities:

• Health & fitness centre
• Swimming pool
• Gym
• Jacuzzi
• Sauna
• Traditional massage
• Business centre
• Meeting/conference facilities
• Shops

Dining:

• May Yuan Chinese Restaurant
• Dok Champa (casual local & western cuisine)
• Steak Corner
• Lobby Lounge
• The Deli Bakery
• Blue Note Pub
• Room service

Settha Palace Hotel - 5 Star

Location:

Built at the turn of the century, the Settha Palace Hotel in Laos is now restored to its former charm. The French colonial architecture, period furniture, landscaped gardens complemented by modern facilities are some of the features of this historical landmark in the heart of Vientiane, the capital city of Lao P.D.R. (Laos).

The Hotel is located right in the city centre, within walking distance of the commercial district, shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. It is 10 minutes drive from Laos Wattai International Airport and 25 minutes drive to Thadeua on Laos side of the Mekong River and the border bridge to Thailand.

Accommodation:

There are thirty luxurious guestrooms and suites, with French colonial decor and high ceilings, wooden floorboards, rosewood four poster king size bed, writing desk, 2-seater sofa with coffee table, in-room safe, satellite TV, wireless internet access, minibar, direct dial telephone with extra jack for laptop modem connection, and marble bathroom.

The Legends of Indochina
The Settha Palace is a member of The Legends of Indochina, a collection of premier hotels in this region. The members include: The Raffles in Singapore, The Oriental in Bangkok, The Amanpuri in Phuket, Chiva Som in Hua Hin, The Regent in Chiangmai, Hotel Le Royale in Phnom Penh, Hotel Grand d'Angkor in Siem Reap, The Settha Palace in Vientiane, Laos, The Strand in Yangon, The Metropole in Hanoi, The Majestic in Saigon, Oriental Express Singapore-Thailand, Orient-Express’ luxury train Eastern & Oriental Express, and the Myammar river cruise ship, Road To Mandalay.

Facilities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Tropical gardens
• Jacuzzi
• Business centre
• Wireless Internet access
• Laundry service
• Sightseeing tours
• Multilingual staff
• Concierge
• Banquet & meeting facilities

Dining:

• La Belle Epoque Restaurant
• Sidewalk Cafe
• Poolside Bar
• 18 Hour room service

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is the jewel of Indochina, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Luang Prabang was the capital of the Lane Xang kingdom from 1354 A.D. It is surrounded by mountains at the junction of the Mekong and its tributary, the Khan river. Luang Prabang is rich in cultural heritage, and is known as the seat of Lao culture, with monasteries, monuments traditional costumes and surrounded by natural beauty.  Visit the former Royal Palace, the caves of Pak Ou, the shimmering Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Sen temples, the fascinating local markets or the 300 year old weaving village of Ban Phanom, and the mighty Mekong river as it snakes through the verdant jungle....

La Residence Phou Vao - 4 Star

Location:

In Luang Prabang, where legends are told in gold relief on temple doors, stay at La Résidence Phou Vao and enjoy the unique and peaceful atmosphere of this resort. La Résidence Phou Vao boasts breathtaking views of the mountains and this sedate World Heritage town.

La Résidence Phou Vao boasts 3 hectares of lush gardens, rich with bougainvillea, palms and frangipani, which fringe the breathtaking negative-edge swimming pool.

Accommodation:

The spacious rooms are a harmony of wood, cotton and silks and enjoy private balconies with extraordinary views. Each room features: King sized or twin beds, individually controlled air-conditioning, private bathroom with shower bathtub, satellite television, hair dryer, mini bar and refrigerator, international direct dial telephone and electronic Safe.

 Facilities:

• Infinity edge swimming pool
• Traditional massage
• Laundry service
• Business facilities
• Internet access
• Boutique
• Library
• Conference room
• Foreign exchange
• Doctors on call

Dining

• Restaurant (French & Lao)
• Bar 

Grand Hotel - 4 Star

Location:

Grand Luang Prabang hotel and resort is situated on grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace which belonged to the famous nationalist hero of Luang Prabang, Prince Phetsarath. He chose this site for tranquility, its stunning views of the mighty Mekong River, and the breathtaking landscape of mountains surrounding Luang Prabang

Accommodation:

The Grand Luang Prabang is the premier destination in Luang Prabang, with its own style and identity. The hotel comprises 76 luxurious rooms and 2 suites, all gracefully decorated.

Located in the garden, each room has its own balcony overlooking the immaculate gardens and mighty Mekong River. Quiet and cozy room, embodies traditional elegance with its warm woods and marble. Twin bedded or king bedded rooms available. The rooms have individually controlled air conditioning, hair dryer, IDD telephone, full mini bar, remote control colour TV with choices of international satellite programmes. A writing table with stationary is also provided. The bathroom is a well-designed spacious marbled room with daily amenities, bathrobe and slippers.

Facilities:

• Traditional massage
• Business services
• Conference facilities
• Bicycle rental
• Laundry/valet service
• Multilingual staff
• Concierge

Dining:

• Xiengkeo Restaurant (breakfast buffet overlooking the Mekong River)
• Le Bistrot
• The Sunset Bar
• 24 Hour room service
• Executive private dining 

Villa Santi Hotel & Resort - 4 Star

Location:

The Villa Santi Hotel was established since 1992 by a Lao businessman Mr. Santi Inthavong who married a former royal princess, the hotel was renovated from the former royal mansion and had been operated as a family hotel with 25 rooms, it is situated in the heart of Luang Prabang's World Heritage Site, only a block away from the Nam Khan River and the Mekong, and only a few doorsteps to many sight seeing places such as ancient temples, the former Royal Palace and the Mont Phousy. The boutique hotel is commonly known as the one of the most charming place to visit when coming to Luang Prabang.
   
In 2001 the Villa Santi Resort was constructed 6 km way from the original Villa Santi Hotel. The boutique hotel resort sits in a 10 hectare valley, beautifully lanscaped with streams leading to the Mekong River. The whole site is surrounded by mountains, hills and terraced rice fields. The resort features 55 luxury rooms.

Early in 2001, Mr. Inthavong appointed a professional hotel team to run the two operations. The management team has implemented a new direction for the company, developing it from a successful family business to be the country's leading boutique hotel and resort.

Accommodation:

The Villa Santi Hotel is known as one of the most charming boutique hotels in the world, certified by many international travel writers. The boutique hotel features 23 Deluxe Rooms and 2 Deluxe Suites, all elegantly decorated in charming Royal Laotian Theme.

All Deluxe Rooms are set with authentic Lao rosewood furnishings and genuine Lao silk textiles. All rooms are complemented with individually controlled air conditioning, mini bar, writing desk with stationary, in-room safety box, bathtub with hot and cold shower, bathrobes and slippers.

Deluxe Suite Rooms featured spacious bedroom and separated living area. The room is set with authentic Lao rosewood furnishings and genuine Lao silk textiles. All rooms are complemented with individually controlled air conditioning, mini bar, writing desk with stationary, in-room safety box, bathtub with hot and cold shower, bathrobes and slippers, hair dryer, satellitve TV, direct dial phone and private balcony overlooking panormaic mountain views. 

Facilities:

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Spa
• Fitness centre
• Tennis court
• Badminton court
• Herbal sauna
• Traditional Lao massage
• Trekking
• Horseriding
• Convention hall
• Laundry service
• Non smoking rooms available
• Business centre
• Free parking
• Bicycle rental

Dining:

• Tor-Seng Restaurant (chef is a former royal cook)
• Say-Houng Lounge
• Sala Lao Bar
• Pool Bar
• Beer Garden (dry season only)
• Room service

Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel - 5 Star

Location:

Relive the old world charm of Luang Prabang, Laos, at Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel - a Conde Nast Traveler USA Hot List 2005 hotel that features a celebrated Angsana Spa as well as a choice of intimate rooms and luxurious suites for discerning guests.

The former residence of Prince Souvannaphouma in the 1960s and 70s, Maison Souvannaphoum is the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring the ancient temples and enchanting scenery of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accommodation:

Once the home to Laotian royalty, Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel offers a choice of intimate accommodation that has been decorated with a touch of the contemporary. You can stay either at "La Residence" or the "Garden Wing".

"La Residence" invites you to tread in the footsteps of Prince Souvannaphouma, whose former home has been converted into three luxurious suites: Maison, Laos and Champa, and one twin guest room. The "Garden Wing" has beautiful Garden and Verandah Rooms.

All rooms and suites are air-conditioned, enjoy an en-suite bathroom and have free wireless Internet access.

Facilities:

• Angsana Spa
• Swimming pool
• Body treatments
• Laundry service
• Parking facilities

Dining:

• Elephant Blanc (French, Loation & Indochinese cuisine)
• In-room dining

Mekong River

The Mekong river between Luang Prabang and Huay Xay has a character very different from the one better known in its Vietnamese delta. Here it is still narrow with rapids, and traverses luxuriant mountainous landscapes. On the way, you see small villages and hamlets which can be reached only by the river, where tourists are seen so little that they are still and object of curiosity. On the slow boat, which takes two to three days, you share the ride at the rhythm of the river with colorful local people. The fast boat is not for those easily scared. It skirts the rapids at more than 50mph, making the trip in less than half a day.

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