Laos – Hidden treasure

Laos is friendly and relaxed– a hidden treasure as yet unspoilt by the modern world. The former royal capital, Luang Prabang, is a World Heritage site dominated by temples and palaces, whilst atmospheric Vientiane, the slow paced modern capital beside the Mekong River, is equally endowed with museums and shrines. Laos offers some delightful hotels, spa resorts and hill rests which are easily accessed by short flights from Bangkok and Hanoi.

History
Once the home of the 14th century Kingdom of Lang Xan (The Million Elephant Kingdom), Laos became a French protectorate in 1893. Independence was gained in 1953 and from 1964 onwards, the strategically positioned country was fought over by royalists, communists and conservatives. In 1975 the kingdom came under the control of the communist party, Pathet Lao, who established a one-party state. A new constitution consolidated the government of the Lao People’s Revolutionary party and the country opened to tourism.

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, is an enchanting city that is small enough to explore on foot.  A seductive pace of life from a bygone era mingles with a graciousness all its own. The entire city was declared a United Nations World Heritage Site in 1995 in order to protect its 32 precious temples, the former royal palace and classic French colonial buildings. The town is surrounded by extraordinary natural beauty including spectacular waterfalls, sheer amber-coloured cliffs, and ancient cave complexes.

Buddhism is an intrinsic and powerful part of life here and groups of orange-robed monks and novices from age eight to 80 are a spiritual part of everyday life in town.

Colourful local markets display an eclectic collection of richly-coloured textiles, home wares and jewellery alongside all kinds of fresh fruits, local foods and crafts from sturdy iron work to delicate paper lanterns. Riverside cafes under vast trees cling to riverbanks offering a peaceful vantage point from which to watch the Mekong, and the world, pass by.

Vientiane
Vientiane is set on the banks of the Mekong River and is the charming capital of Laos.  A quiet city compared to others in Asia, but a bustling city for Laos.  A city of French colonial architecture, gilded temples, markets and a Presidential Palace.  Be sure to watch the sunset from the terrace at your riverside hotel.

Map

Best Experiences

• The ancient Lao Baci ceremony beside a lotus pond followed by traditional music and dance
• Rise early in Luang Prabang to witness the Buddhist ritual of offering alms to the Monks
• Enjoy a long-tailed boat cruise down the Mekong or Ou River

When to go
Laos is best visited from November to February when there is least rainfall and temperatures are comfortable. However the hot season from March to May and the early rainy season from June to July is also a good time to visit northern Laos.

Approximate flight times
London to Bangkok: 11 hours 30 minutes/ London to Hanoi: 11 hours 30 minutes/ Laos is easily accessible via Bangkok and Vietnam, with flying times ranging from 1-2 hours.

Time Difference
GMT +7 hours

Passports & Visas
British passport holders must purchase a visa on arrival.

Multi-centre Options
Both Laos and Cambodia provide the perfect addition to a Thailand or Vietnam holiday, or can be visited as stand alone destinations. A multi centre itinerary is recommended to cover the main cities and sights