Attractions

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

2 day-1 night

Location:

From Luang Prabang to Houei Sai

Note:

• A minimum of 4 passengers is required to operate the Cruise, join-in basis.
• Luang Say Upstream Cruise departs at 7a.m. from Auberge Calao pier (Yellow Hotel) on Mekong River Road so please be at the pier by 6.45 a.m. at the latest.
• Please bring a jersey or a jacket as it can be cool at Luang Say Lodge and on the boat during October to February.
• It is possible to leave your suitcase and luggage on the boat and take only a small daypack with changing clothes. This is an advisory as the steps to Luang Say Lodge are quite steep.
• For safety reasons and according to weather conditions, the program may be changed without prior notice.

Program includes:

• A transfer from slow boat pier to Laos immigration at Houei Sai
• 2-day cruise with stops and admission fees at visiting sites serviced by English and French speaking escorts
• 1 night accommodation at Luang Say Lodge
• Meal plan as mentioned in the program
• Coffee, tea and drinking water on board and during meals
• Crew services during the cruise
• Group insurance

Program excludes:

• A shuttle boat (15 minutes) from Houei Sai to Chiang Khong (Thailand)
• Visa, immigration and/or overtime fees in Thailand and in Laos
• Soft and alcohol drinks during the trip
• Personal insurance and other personal expenses

Program:

Day 1, the boat leaves pier at 7 am. A continental breakfast is served on board.

• The boat first stops to visit Pak Ou caves where thousands of Buddha images are found
• A buffet lunch is served on board.
• The second stop is at Ban Baw to observe the processing of the traditional rice alcohol.
• The boat arrives at Luang Say Lodge for an overnight stay and dinner.

Day 2, a continental breakfast is served at terrace from 6 am. and the boat leaves at 7 am.

• One stop is made to observe rural life along Mekong and observe minorities.
• Buffet lunch is served on board.
• The boat arrives at slow boat pier in Houei Sai before 5 pm.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

A round of Golf – 18 Holes including

• Caddy & Cart Fee
• Return Transfer from Hotel

Week Day 110 US$
Week End 120 US$

Prices are net and per Golfer

Valid till 31 March 2013

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

5,5 hours

Suggested time:

1:30 – 6PM

Location:

Ban Tha Pene

Note:

Kuang Si Waterfalls can get crowded on the weekends so it is advised to visit during weekdays if time permits. Swimming is possible, although between November and January the water temperature is very cool. It is recommended to wear proper walking attire. Drinks are available for purchase on the cruise boat.

Luang Prabang is located among some incredible natural surroundings. Venture out to discover the picturesque Kuang Si Waterfalls. Enjoy a short hike in the national park before arriving at the falls for a swim and a picnic lunch.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the lobby of the hotel and begin your transfer by private vehicle.
• Visit a local market at Phosy and observe the locals trading their fresh produce.
• Take a leisurely hike through the national park towards the Kuang Si Waterfalls and pass by the Asian Bear Rescue Center.
• Enjoy feeling the mist of the cool, turquoise waters of the different waterfalls.
• Hike to the top of the main waterfall from where you can enjoy the panoramic views.
• Return to the pools at the bottom of the falls for a refreshing swim.
• Transfer to Ban Muang Khai and board a local river boat.
• Enjoy the sunset on board while cruising along the river.
• Transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

8 hours

Suggested time:

8:00 – 16:00

Location:

Luang Prabang and Ban Muang Keo

Note:

The Royal Palace Museum is open daily except Tuesday.
In case the tour is on a Tuesday, the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre will
be visited instead. Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.
Discover the rich traditions, temples and the tasty cuisine Luang Prabang has to offer.
Witness the multitude of Buddhist statues at Pak Ou caves on the Mekong river.
Take a boat ride to soak up some of the natural beauty and local culture that revolves around the river.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide in the lobby of the hotel and then transfer by private vehicle to Ban Pak Ou.
• Take a private ferry from Ban Pak Ou to the caves, which are on the other side of the Mekong, inside a spectacular limestone rock.
• Explore the sanctuaries of Pak Ou and witness the intriguing sight of over 4,000 Buddha images.
• Visit Ban Muang Keo village and observe their traditional weaving techniques.
• Cruise back to Luang Prabang on the Mekong River and observe the picturesque limestone formations and the friendly local children playing in the river.
• Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant, then head back to Luang Prabang.
• Start your sightseeing tour through town with a visit to the Royal Palace Museum and the precious exhibits that used to belong to the Royal family.
• Meet some monks at Wat Mai and learn more about their practices and the Buddhist way of life.
• Admire the glorious architecture and elegant design of the 16th century Wat Xiengthong.
• Arrive at Wat Sene in time to hear the daily chanting ritual.
• Transfer back to your hotel.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

5 hours

Suggested time:

13:00 – 18:00

Location:

Luang Prabang

Note:

The cycling is relatively easy and is suitable for anyone of reasonable fitness. A bicycle is a perfect vehicle to enable you to venture away from the beaten path and explore some charming villages and lesser known temples of Luang Prabang. Stop at one temple where you will take part in a Buddhist blessing ceremony.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the hotel lobby to try out your mountain bike and commence a leisurely cycle.
• You will soon find yourself on quiet paths taking you through small communities and rural landscapes.
• Visit the lesser known temples such as Wat That Luang and Wat Xangkalok where you will receive a greater appreciation of the local customs and habits.
• Stop for a short visit to the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center.
• Visit a forest meditation temple Wat Pha Phon Phao.
• Enjoy the peace and quiet in this special place before cycling back to your hotel.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

Approximately 7 hours

Suggested time:

8:30 – 15:30

Location:

Elephant Village, located outside of Luang Prabang town

Note:

It is recommended to wear proper walking attire and carry anti mosquito spray. Between February and July, the falls have limited water.

Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.
With stunning natural beauty including mountain ranges, rivers, and untouched forests, Luang Prabang is ideal for soft adventure activities.
Mount one of nature’s most gracious animals and explore the beautiful jungle and authentic villages.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the elephant camp.
• Receive a short introduction about these majestic animals (join-in).
• Mount an elephant and enjoy a 1.5 hour jungle trek (join-in).
• Walk for approximately 1.5 hour through a unique natural jungle valley with limestone cascades (private).
• Go back to the elephant camp for lunch (join-in).
• Take a boat to Tad Sae (join in), where you can swim and relax(private).
• Cruise back to the elephant camp (join in) and visit Ban Xieng Lom, a Khamu Village (private).
• Transfer back to hotel (private).

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

8 hours

Suggested time:

8:00 – 16:00

Location:

Luang Prabang town

Note:

There is a maximum of 3 people per class. Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements. Laos is home to many minority tribes who demonstrate great talent in handicrafts which has been developed throughout the generations. This workshop will allow you to learn first hand about these practices from the minority tribe villagers.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and transfer by private vehicle to Ock Pop Tock Living Craft Centre.
• Learn more about the Hmong minority group and the way they have mastered Batik (offered either in the morning or afternoon).
• Join a local Hmong workgroup of women and learn all about Batik and continue creating your own design with the help of a master.
• Enjoy a locally prepared lunch.
• Learn more about the Lao Loum minority group and how they have mastered the dyeing/weaving techniques.
• Continue learning more about bamboo weaving and create your own pattern for your own hand woven fan or basket (offered either in the morning or afternoon).
• Bid farewell to your hosts then return to your hotel by private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

6 hours

Suggested time:

10:00 – 16:00

Location:

Chompet District

Note:

It is recommended that people wear proper hiking boots and clothing to protect from the sun and that is in line with Laos codes of conduct. Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.

Venturing off the beaten path in Luang Prabang rewards itself with an authentic experience of local lifestyle and beautiful natural attractions. A hop, step and a boat ride across the Mekong River from the town will offer you such rewards.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the hotel lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the Luang Prabang pier.
• Board a local longtail boat and transfer to the other site of the Mekong River.
• Explore the unbeaten trails that lead to waterfalls and small handicraft villages.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Hoy Khua waterfall which tumbles down from a height of 50m.
• Visit local handicraft villages along the Mekong where pottery and local rice wine is produced.
• Visit the lesser known pagodas around Luang Prabang and witness the sun set from the marvellous Wat Chomphet.
• Return to Luang Prabang by longtail boat then transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

6 hours

Suggested time:

9:00 - 15:00

Location:

Ban Na Daed, Luang Prabang

Note:

There is potential for other participants to join in this activity with a maximum capacity of 12 people. Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.

Venturing off the beaten path in Luang Prabang rewards itself with an authentic experience of local lifestyle and beautiful natural attractions. A hop, step and a boat ride across the Mekong River from the town will offer you such rewards.

PROGRAM

• Meet a local chef at the hotel lobby (when private) or meet the chef and other students at the restaurant before you transfer to the local market.
• Learn more about local ingredients and experience the buzz of a local market.
• Transfer to a picturesque lakeside pavilion where you receive an introduction to the Laos kitchen.
• Start the hands-on cooking class with an introduction to all the fresh ingredients you just bought at the market.
• Learn how to make Jeow; a spicy Laotian dipping sauce, Mok Pa; a popular dish of fish steamed with herbs in banana leaves and Orlarm; Luang Prabang’s eggplant speciality.
• Serve your self-made dishes in style and enjoy the fruits of your labor over lunch.
• Receive recipes to take home so that you can surprise your family and friends back home.
• Transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

3 hours

Suggested time:

9:00 – 12:00 or 14:00 – 17:00

Location:

Luang Prabang town

Note:

Local visit Learn how one business is helping many rural Lao farmers transition to a sustainable farming model.

PROGRAM

• Meet your driver at the hotel lobby and transfer by private vehicle to the Saffron Cafe.
• Meet the owner, a western expat, who has been in Laos working in agriculture.
• Learn how his organisation helps farmers transition from growing opium to coffee.
• Learn about the different types of coffee beans produced in Luang Prabang and what positive effects the project is having on the locals.
• Have a chance to see coffee being roasted and of course taste the final product of these fine Lao Arabica beans in the form of a Latte, Cappuccino or the local specialty, the Luang Prabang Espresso.
• Receive a small souvenir of Lao coffee beans and then transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

11-12 hours

Suggested time:

6:00 – 18:00

Location:

Luang Prabang, exact location depends on your interest.

Note:

Suitable for beginner, amateur or advanced photographers. Departure is early to capture the best light. Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.

Pictures often speak louder than words. If you are determined to come home with a photo album filled with memories and captured events in Luang Prabang, join a professional photographer who is familiar with the local people and surrounding locations.

PROGRAM

• Meet the photographer the evening before to finalise your schedule, prepare your camera and outline what you wish to learn.
• Meet before sunrise at the hotel lobby and visit the morning alms ritual for your first shoot.
• Enjoy breakfast at the gallery cafe and receive a quick introduction to photography.
• Head out with the photographer to the rural outskirts of town.
• Snap away in the villages and markets as you are guided by the professional tips of your expert guide.
• Enjoy lunch at the Big Tree Cafe, a colonial building and home to an exhibition of the photographer’s work.
• See your photography technique improve as you continue to create a visual history of Laos.
• End the day with a cocktail and a watch a slide show of your favourite images on the cafe’s terrace.
• Transfer back to your hotel by private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

9 hours

Suggested time:

8:00 – 17:00

Location:

Ban Xang Khong

Note:

It is possible to extend this tour with an additional day. You would be spending the night in Luang Prabang and transfer back to Wat Hat Seo in the early morning and join the monks for their morning chanting.
Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.

There is no place better to practise meditation than in a Buddhist temple in the heart of a Laotian forest. Allow yourself to leave all your concerns behind as you are taught the ancient mysteries of meditation by monks in this peaceful and relaxing environment.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the lobby of the hotel and transfer by private vehicle to Ban Xang Khong.
• Board a rustic boat and cross the Mekong river.
• Climb the steps to Wat Hat Seo Temple located in the middle of a tranquil, tropical forest.
• Meet with the monks, novices and the abbot to receive an introduction to the customs of Buddhism.
• Enjoy a vegetarian lunch in the shady surrounds of the temple.
• Learn to chant with the monks (novice or master) and be instructed on the principles of meditation.
• Practise meditation close to the temple or in a more secluded area in the forest.
• Join the monks at the temple and partake in the last chanting of the day.
• Return to your hotel by boat and private vehicle.

EXCURSIONS

All excursions are private and have been specially crafted by our concierge

Duration:

8 hours

Suggested time:

8:00 – 17:00

Location:

Ban Nayang & Luang Prabang

Note:

Maximum 10 clients. Lunch is included. Please inform your guide of any dietary requirements.

Learn more about the many hill tribes in Laos during a special visit to Ban Nayang mountain village which is home to the Tai Lu minority. Later return to town and take part in one of the most sacred of Laos ceremonies – the Baci ceremony.

PROGRAM

• Meet your guide at the lobby of the hotel and transfer by private vehicle to Ban Nayang (2.5hrs).
• Upon arrival, walk a short distance to the village which is home to about over 100 hill tribe families who migrated from China in the 18th century.
• Learn how the villagers grow their own cotton and each household has two or three weaving looms beneath their living quarters.
• Chat with the villagers who are open to talk about their daily life activities and you are invited to try your hand at spinning, weaving, or other crafts depending on what is happening in the village.
• Lunch is cooked by the villagers and served in a local home.
• Learn about and then participate in a Baci ceremony – at the end a white thread is tied to your wrist which is meant to bring good luck.
• After the ceremony, return to your hotel.

CONCIERGE

Anakha

- in the blue house opposite Villa Santi has a lot to showcase from table & bed linen, scents. Ask for Fabienne on Sakkarine Road, open daily from 9.30 am - 10.00 pm

Caruso Lao

- Lovely Ebony, Rosewood and Accacia homeware. On Sakkarine Road - 071 254 574

Naga Creation

- Right on the main shopping drag, Naga specializes in jewelry for all budgets. You can see the craftsmen at work on the premises. Located on Sisavangvong Road, open Daily 8:30am to 9pm.

Le Pavilion De Jade

– This beautiful pavilion offers a small selection of silver jewelries combined with their collection of antique items of exquisite quality. Upstairs you will find a range of hand woven, naturally dyed silk scarves. The owner himself sources his items from all over South-East Asia. Open daily 8.00am – 8.00pm. Ban That Luang - 071 260 157

Pathana Boupha Antique House

– In an impressive old French mansion, Pathana Boupha carries antique statuary, jewelries, Royal Lao government currency and old photos, mostly from the Lao owners’ private collection.The lady who runs the shop has lived in the house - her grandfather's - all her life, and knows all the luminaries of the recent and not-so-recent past. Open Daily 8.30 am – 5.30 pm 071 252 383

Project Space

– The Design Studio presents precious objects, furniture and fabrics, creating a bridge between traditional handicraft and the art world. Closed on Mondays 10.00 am – 7.00 pm 071 213 091

Patta Textile

– Meet Ms. Tadam to explain the art of textile making and have a show around in her two studios. Open Daily - 11.00 am – 6.00 pm 071 213 047

Ma Te Sai

– Jewelry, textile, candles and a lot more! All produced from villages all over Laos. The profits goes to Mine Risk education and help around the country. Open Daily 8.00 am – 9.00 pm 071 260 654

CONCIERGE

Wat Xieng Thong

- The oldest temple in Laos that was built in 1560 by King Sethathirath, a Hallmark not to be missed.

Wat Chom Phet

- Was built in the XVII perched on the hill opposite the peninsula

Wat Pa Pai

- Built in the XVII this is a hidden gem to discover being an arch of bougainvillea

Wat Phra Phone Phao

- The most peaceful temple set in the forest overlooking the Nam Khan River

Wat Mai

- Was built in the XVII and has an unusual roof line next to the National Museum

Wat Visounarat

- Built in the XVI this temple has an impressive stupa and is the former National Museum

Wat Phoussy

- Up here you can see the whole of Luang Prabang and enjoy the sunset with at 360 degrees view

CONCIERGE

National Museum

– In this old house of a former king you can learn about the history of Laos. Either with a guided tour, audiotape or walk around alone.Closed on Tuesdays 8.30am-11.30am & 1.30pm-3.30pm

Traditional Art & Ethnology Centre

- Situated in a historical building, protected by UNESCO, the public exhibitions shows ethnic clothing, religious art facts, working tools etc. Closed on Mondays 9.00am-6.00pm

Heritage House of Architecture Development

- Study the architecture development of Luang Prabang. UNESCO has several duties in this town and this house was classified in the World Heritage List in 1995.

CONCIERGE

Ban Phanom Village

- Visit the tomb of the historical French naturalist and explorer, Henri Mouhot, who died just out side Luang Prabang in 1861. The village is also famous for their weaving art.

Ban Xang Hai Village

- The traditional local Lao Whiskey is produced in this charming village.

Ban Jane Village

- Stroll around the houses and watch as the locals are producing traditional jars and pots.

Ban Xangkhong Village

- Famous for their Mulberry paper and textile production, this picturesque village features small manufacturers run individually by the families.

CONCIERGE

Tak Bat / Alms giving

- Watch the monks and novices pass by to collect the alms. Together with the sunrise they will walk along the streets of Luang Prabang. Mon-Sun 6.00 am.

Baci ceremony

- To give their blessings and good wishes the Lao people organize the Baci ceremony. This very important ritual is a way to honor weddings, new buildings, Pi Mai and baby births. This is also a way of showing compassion when a family member is unwell.

Childrens Workshop

- Located between two of Luang Prabangs biggest orphanages, the Childrens Workshop teaches the children to create, to give them a chance of life in the future. Open daily 10.00 am - 4.00 pm.

Royal Ballet Theatre

- The re-established ancient Lao Ramayana performs the Lao version of the sacred poem, Phra-Lak Phra-Lam. Mon/Wed/Sat 6.00 pm.

Cooking classes at a lakeside pavilion

- An early morning tour of Luang Prabang’s major food market, followed by the introduction of a Lao kitchen. A hands-on cooking class of traditional Lao food US$ 81/ person

CONCIERGE

Morning Market 5.30-10.00

- Every morning, Lao people gather here to buy and trade fresh vegetables and fish that have been taken from the Mekong the very same morning.

Phousy Market 5.00-18.00

- This is a great place to find souvenirs. Luang Prabang candy, sweet & spicy chili sauce and seaweed directly from the Mekong itself.

Chinese Market 7.00-20.00

- After the name, the products here are all from China. TV’s, clothes, telephones and jewelries.

Na Wieng Kham 5.00-18.00

- This is the market , located just outside city centre, where Lao people will come to buy their fresh fruits.

A small luxury boutique resort

The Luang Say Residence is located only 10 minutes away from the airport and 5 minutes from downtown.

Flying Time from:

Bangkok 2 hours
Chiang Mai 1 hour
Siam Reap 1 hour 45 minutes
Hanoi 1 hour
Vientiane 1 hour

Accomodation

24 luxuriously appointed residence suites including:
20 Pioneer Suites 43 sqm
4 Explorator Suites 74 sqm

All suites include a flat screen television, satellite programming, air- conditioning, personal mini bar, idd telephone lines, wifi internet access, in-room safe and large bay windows allowing for natural daylight.

Pioneer Suites - 43 sqm

One-Bedroom Suites showcase spacious indoor and outdoor sitting areas. Each suite offers Twin or King Sized beds which are covered by a cozy mosquito net adding a softer, elegant touch to the room. The suite boasts ample space including a large bathroom with a walk-in shower and a lounge area equipped with a writing desk and divan.

Explorator Suites - 74 sqm

One-Bedroom Suites showcase spacious indoor and outdoor sitting areas. Each suite offers Twin or King Sized beds which are covered by a cozy mosquito net adding a softer, elegant touch to the room. The suite boasts ample space including a lounge area equipped with a writing desk and divan.

The suites’ luxurious, spacious bathroom also includes a bathtub, walk-in shower and double vanity unit.

‘La Belle Epoque’

restaurant at The Luang Say Residence delights and surprises its guests with simple yet sumptuous cuisine, attractively priced and served in impeccable surroundings. All diners will enjoy their meal from a creative menu changed quarterly with a tempting selection of regional dishes from Laos and other countries in South East Asia.

‘1861’

is a traditional café that brings back the grand old days of exploration by featuring a display area filled with ancient ethnic hunting weaponry. The pleasurable ambience is enhanced with its offerings of fine wine and a variety of enticing cocktails. ‘1861’ also encourages its guests to discover Laos’ historical background through well - chosen articles and photo books in the extravagant library and fumoir.

Additional Services

Swimming pool Library & fumoir Laundry service Foreign exchange Airport transfer, In suite dining Concierge and Golf arrangements All major credit cards accepted

When planning your Luang Prabang holiday, it is important to note that Luang Prabang offers several local events and festivals that you should be aware of before travelling. Make sure, if on your Luang Prabang holiday during one of these events or festivals, that you book your Luang Prabang hotel and Luang Prabang tours in advance.

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From Courtship to Kinship: Wedding Celebrations of Laos’ Ethnic Groups

Place: Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, Luang Prabang, Laos (15 Sep 2011 - 30 Jun 2012)

“From Courtship to Kinship: Wedding Celebrations of Laos’ Ethnic Groups” is an excellent exhibition providing a rare insight into the distinct wedding traditions of the Lao people and several of the country’s ethnic minorities. It features documentary photography of rituals and ceremonies, explanations of the lore and symbolism of wedding customs in Laos, and unusual artefacts, such as the wedding crown of the Kim Di Mun.

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Pii Mai Lao (Lao New Year)

Place: Luang Prabang (14 Apr 2012 - 16 Apr 2012)

Lao New Year is the biggest and most famous of the festivals in Laos. Luang Prabang gets very busy over this time and hotels are often fully booked, weeks if not months, before this time. Book early to ensure rooms are available.

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Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival)

Place: Luang Prabang (1 May 2012 - 31 May 2012)

A ceremony for calling for the rains is performed in the temple during the morning. In the afternoon, people gather in fields on the outskirts of towns and villages to launch their rockets with much revelry.

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Rice and Boat Racing Festival

(31 Aug 2012)

On the Khao Padabdin ceremony day, people visit the local temples to make offerings to their dead ancestors as well as to share in merit-making. This festival includes boat racing on the Nam Khan river and a trade fair in Luang Prabang town.