Laos

…Karst limestone mountains, waterfalls, rivers, caves, water buffalo…

Laos felt much more relaxed and less touristy than other places we have travelled in SE Asia.  As a result, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves even though it didn’t feature any “big ticket” items (e.g. Angkor Wat, white sand beaches, crystal clear waters).  We found the people to be genuine, and to our pleasant surprise they mostly ignored tourists. There was no aggressive hawking or bargaining, which made shopping in the markets lovely.  There was also beautiful scenery (karst limestone mountains, waterfalls everywhere). Curfew is set by the Government at 10:30pm (I think it’s now midnight) so no crazy bar/club scene and most people go to bed early and wake up early.  This was one of our most relaxing holidays with our time spent exploring, reading, and enjoying the local cuisine, including the BeerLao (delicious!) and French food and wine at fantastic prices.

Here are highlights (DINK Trip Tips) from our trip...for more details or to help plan your own visit, contact us!

Vientiane

• Rent bikes and explore the sights of the capital city (Wat Si Saket, Haw Pha Kaeo, Patuaxi)
• Watch the sunset over the water while drinking BeerLao at Bor Pennyang
• Explore the street food and handicrafts at the night market along the main road
• Enjoy fabulous French food and wine at afordable prices at L’Adresse de Tinay

Luang Prabang

• Immerse yourself into the great café culture, awesome restaurants (French and local), night markets, and overall cool vibe
• Walk around and see the main sights (Mount Phu Si, Royal Palace, Wat Chom Si)
• Appreciate the intricate handiwork in the weaving village across the river (Ban Phanom)
• Explore the nearby caves (Pak Ou) and waterfalls (Tat Kuang Si) while taking in the beautiful scenery
• Wake up early to see the Buddhist Alms Giving Ceremony

Nong Khiaw (north of Luang Prabang)

• Stay at a riverside bungalow and relax on the balcony while enjoying the views
• Walk to the nearby caves and take a “torch tour” led by the local kids
• Take a boat tour to Muang Ngoi and do the waterfall hike, visit the caves, and explore the village

Tha Khaek (south of Vientiene)

• Take a 2-day trek in the National Park to see caves, waterfalls, & the Blue Lagoon and immerse in the local culture with a homestay in a remote village