Search Results forluang prabang
La Résidence Phou Vao reveals the secrets of Luang Prabang with a bespoke new experience
La Résidence Phou Vao invites guests to experience the mystique of the Laotian capital with its new experience Unlocking the Secrets of Luang Prabang. This uniquely curated offer runs for three days and offers up the secrets of the fabled UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang through the city’s foremost heritage hotel. From culture, cuisine and French colonial architectural heritage to sacred Buddhist rites that still shape daily life, the former Royal Guest House reveals intriguing insights into the ancient capital’s past and present. All are arranged by the hotel and can be tailor-made to your own preferences, as an all-inclusive three-night experience. French charm, Laotian tradition Revived in five-star style, La Résidence Phou Vao oozes elegance and serenity in a hilltop sanctuary of French colonial charm. Guests embrace the spirit of the immersive package from the moment of arrival, with elegant sundown cocktails and a Chef’s Table dinner at signature restaurant Tam Nan, renowned for classic Laotian cuisine featuring a menu of slow-cooking and clay-pot artistry anchored in local customs. Day Two begins at the crack of dawn, capturing breathtaking views of sunrise over the Mekong valley from a hill atop the resort’s tropical gardens, where guests of the palace once stayed. A morning market tour is guided by a local chef, discovering exotic local produce and tasting traditional street food favourites. Lunch is a Lao cooking experience, with ingredients freshly harvested from the resort’s own organic garden. After a private sunset cruise on the mighty Mekong aboard La Residence’s own luxury river boat, the tour delves into a mystery tasting dinner celebrating the abundance of Laos through stories, and contemporary Luang Prabang cuisine at the stylish Little Lao Culture Bar which is at the centre of Laos’ up and coming contemporary food scene. A stroll through the night market and nightcap at an artisan tea shop ends at a “secret bar” tucked down a small alley in the heart of the historic town for handcrafted cocktails. Where the worldly and the ethereal meet Day Three is likewise packed with enriching experiences, focused on Luang Prabang’s heritage and architecture. Spiritual insight begins with a morning ‘Alms Giving Experience’, preparing sticky rice and joining an enlightening sunrise ceremony known as Tak Bat where hundreds of Buddhist monks receive alms offerings from the local community. For deeper understanding, guests meet Madam Laa, who has dedicated over 40 years to her daily merit-making. A ‘City & Architecture Tour’ with a local historian explores the unique charm of the remarkably well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage gem, celebrated for its fusion of traditional Lao urban architecture with the French colonial era of the 19th and 20th centuries. A relaxing afternoon back at La Résidence is soothed by a signature bamboo massage at the hotel’s award-winning Mekong Spa. The oasis of serenity is renowned for ancient Laotian therapies once reserved for royalty, including Mai Xiaung massage applying warm oil of healing local botanicals to tired muscles with steamed bamboo. The final evening of the unforgettable experience starts with sunset cocktails at Ok Pop Tok Living Craft Centre on the banks of the Mekong, learning about the fascinating world of Lao textiles, from silkworm to natural dyes, weaving techniques and the finished product. The final dinner takes place at Governor’s Grill in the lush gardens of Sofitel Luang Prabang, where guests will savour an Epicurean Exploration dinner against a botanical backdrop, followed by late-night drinks and dessert back at La Résidence. For those departing late or staying on for another day, an optional sunrise breakfast picnic and swim can be incorporated in the turquoise pools of the spectacular, three-tiered Kuang Si Waterfalls. A “secret little late lunch” follows, hosted by a local personality at their home, thus offering a unique opportunity to enjoy an authentic home-cooked meal while engaging in meaningful conversation about local culture, traditions and personal stories.
Mekong Tourism Forum makes its way to Luang Prabang this June
The Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of Lao PDR (MICT), in collaboration with the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), announced that the Mekong Tourism Forum (MTF) 2025 will take place on from 25th to 27th June in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Luang Prabang. Revolving around the theme United Journey: Stronger Together, this year’s forum will bring together tourism leaders, professionals, development partners, and private sector representatives from across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) to explore shared solutions and new approaches to sustainable tourism development. MICT Tourism Development Department director-general Phonemaly Inthaphome said: “The Mekong Tourism Forum 2025 reflects our region’s commitment to shaping tourism as a driver of shared prosperity. By convening diverse voices from across the GMS, we aim to build a common platform for dialogue and partnership, ensuring tourism development that is responsible, balanced, and beneficial to all.” MTCO executive director Suvimol Thanasarakij added: “This year’s forum will highlight how collaboration across borders, sectors, and communities can shape a more resilient and inclusive future for Mekong tourism. We look forward to welcoming all stakeholders to be part of this important conversation.” Regional cooperation via immersion Through open dialogue, immersive sessions, and cross-sectoral exchange, the forum aims to strengthen regional cooperation and amplify community-focused, responsible tourism across borders. MTF 2025 will feature discussions led by industry experts from across the tourism sector, thematic breakout sessions held at carefully selected off-site locations aligned with each theme, and the official launch of the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030. Delegates will also join thematic technical tours designed around hands-on, local experiences that include mulberry paper making, ecotourism visits, and learning traditional practices alongside local communities. All these offer an authentic perspective on Luang Prabang’s cultural and natural richness.
Luang Prabang reports significant increase in foreign arrivals for 2024
Lonely Planet reports that over 1.9 million domestic and foreign visitors visited Luang Prabang province in the first 11 months of 2024. This shows an increase of over one million tourists compared to the same period last year. Over 1.3 million of these came from overseas, marking an increase of around 87.43 percent. The top 10 source markets for visitors travelling to Laos this year were China, South Korea, the USA, Thailand, France, Sweden, Austria, Germany, Canada, and Japan. This tourism surge has helped generate over US$1 billion in revenue. Notable distinctions It should be noted that Luang Prabang was also listed among Green Destinations’ Top 100 Stories for 2024 in recognition of its efforts to ensure responsible tourism whilst maintaining its distinctive appeal. Laos was one of 32 countries on the Green Destinations 2024 Top 100 Stories list announced in October of this year. Also, Luang Prabang was the first and only destination in Laos to be selected as one of the 2024 Top 100 Destination Sustainability Stories under the category Preservation of architectural housing styles in a world heritage area. A hub for tourism Luang Prabang is one of the most well-known provinces in Laos and is a top tourist draw because of its riverside location, old temples, quaint streets and alleyways, colourful festivals, and scenic beauty. The town’s old quarter was listed as a World Heritage Site in 1995 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), which determined that its architecture was culturally significant and worthy of preservation by the United Nations. Popular attractions in and around the town include the Phu Si stupa, Sae Waterfall, Kuangxi Waterfall, and the large night market which is renowned for the many handicrafts on sale.
Rosewood Luang Prabang pays homage to Lao Heritage on a Sunset River Cruise
Rosewood Luang Prabang announces an enriching enhancement to its guest experiences through a new initiative that celebrates the rich heritage of Lao textiles. In a move that aligns perfectly with its "Sense of Place" philosophy, the luxury resort has introduced new blankets, cushion covers, and other soft furnishings aboard its Sunset River Cruise as a tribute to the cultural and artistic traditions of Laos. The soft furnishings, made from textiles sourced by textile expert Dr. Linda S. McIntosh, offer guests a unique insight into the culture, history, and beauty of the region. A research associate for the Tracing Patterns Foundation and an independent researcher renowned for her work on Southeast Asian handwoven textiles, Dr. McIntosh has meticulously selected textiles that embody the theme of "Khao" or Rice, exclusively for Rosewood Luang Prabang. The "Khao" theme is expressed through various shades of yellow and green, symbolizing the rice plant at different stages of its growth cycle, from the ripening greens to the harvest-ready yellows, complemented by hues of blue that recall the color of a clear sky. This color palette not only represents the agrarian lifestyle of Laos but also brings the beauty of the country's natural landscape onto the Rosewood Luang Prabang's Sunset River Cruise. “It is exciting that Rosewood Luang Prabang is embracing Laos’s valuable textile heritage. Lao textiles embody the culture of Laos with motifs symbolizing its flora and fauna. Lao textiles are also truly beautiful, worth all the admiring gazes they receive, and the Lao textiles donning the Rosewood boat exemplify their splendor and significance,” said Dr. Linda S. McIntosh. The selected textiles include a special carpet design known as River Current or "Nam Lai," handwoven by the skilled artisans of Laos. This design not only adds a touch of elegance and comfort to the cruise experience but also showcases the incredible craftsmanship of local weavers. Highlighting Rosewood's commitment to supporting female artistry and local communities, the textiles have been sourced from the weavers of Nikone in Vientiane and the Tai Lue weavers of Ban Nayang Neua in Luang Prabang. The inclusion of floral designs, emblematic of the Buddhist Lao and carrying auspicious meanings, significantly enriches the cultural narrative. These designs reflect the deep connection between the people of Laos and their environment, where cotton, an essential material for the textiles, grows abundantly alongside rice. “By integrating these beautiful textiles into our Sunset River Cruise, we not only showcase the unique artistry of Laos but also foster a deeper connection between our guests and the local culture as we continue to celebrate the rich heritage and natural beauty of the country,” said Adrien Pons, Resort Manager of Rosewood Luang Prabang. Guests interested in diving deeper into the history and significance of these beautiful textiles have the opportunity to learn more from Dr. McIntosh herself at Gallery ASIAMA with an immersive experience that invites guests to appreciate not just the beauty of the textiles, but their cultural importance and the stories they tell. Presentation of a Textile Topic at Gallery ASIAMA. Dr. McIntosh, internationally renowned Southeast Asian textile expert, will introduce you to museum-quality, traditional textiles of Laos. She can also personalize the topic on request depending on the guests’ interests. Exclusive Visit to Villa Azurin. Visit Dr. Linda S. McIntosh at her home Villa Azurin 20 kilometers downriver on the Mekong River. She will introduce you to museum-quality, traditional textiles of Laos using textiles from ASIAMA Gallery to illustrate the talk. Rosewood Luang Prabang's initiative to furnish its Sunset River Cruise with handwoven textiles sourced by Dr. McIntosh exemplifies the resort's dedication to creating meaningful experiences that connect guests with the local culture and heritage with a wealth of activities that also include an architectural walking tour with a conservationist and former advisor to UNESCO, a visit with an artist devoted to preserving local artistic traditions. Visit a weaving center specializing in weaving and embroidering Luang Prabang-style textiles. Located in Chomphet District, Dr. McIntosh will lead you across the Mekong River to this secluded textile center and silk farm. Linda will explain the processes and the textiles being created in-situ. Time permitting, guests may want to visit North Chan Village Pottery Center, the sole-surviving pottery village in North Laos.
Festive feasts: Holiday season at Riva Arun Bangkok and Kiridara Luang Prabang
Experience something new this year by staying at Riva Arun Bangkok and Kiridara Luang Prabang. Both hotels have something exciting in store for those travelling to Thailand and Laos: Kiridara Luang Prabang Situated on the hillside of a UNESCO World Heritage site and offering a panoramic mountain view, the Kiridara Luang Prabang is finished in a contemporary Laotian style and its staff and very popular in hotel reviews sites. Book directly with hotel website and get free airport transfer and discounts at hotel outlets. Christmas Eve Dinner at The Deck Treat yourself with a four-course dinner that the chef has created especially for the festive season. Luang Prabang is famous for its magnificent sunset, and there is no better way to see it than in Kiridara. Chef’s Table Luang Prabang Restaurant also offers a turkey carving station and sparkling wine. Head over to Kiridara Pool Deck from 7pm-9pm and enjoy a feast priced at USD 49 for adults and USD 23 for children ages 12 years old and below. Set menu Appetiser: Roasted turkey with fruits and nuts Salad: Smoked duck salad with berry dressing or Chicken avocado salad with balsamic dressing Soup: Clam and mussel chowder soup or French onion soup served with baguette Main: Herb-roasted salmon fillet or Beef tenderloin with chocolate and chili sauce or Grilled giant prawn with white garlic cream sauce Dessert: Christmas pudding and tea or coffee New Year’s Countdown Party Welcome the New Year with a bang! Kiridara celebrates the end of the year with live band, Lao traditional performance and a famous barslop show. Enjoy all of these while guests indulge themselves with a five-course New Year’s Eve dinner. For only USD 59 per adult and USD 29 for children under 12 years old, guests can relish the dinner. For USD 85 per adult, enjoy the dinner with soft drinks, free flow local beer and house wine. Head over to the swimming deck at 7pm. Set menu Appetiser: Pan seared duck with wild honeycomb Salad: Wild honeycomb salad Soup: Wild mushroom soup Main: Beef tenderloin with red wine sauce or Roasted lamb rack with mushroom and risotto or Roasted salmon with wild mushroom and risotto Dessert: Chocolate fondant with ice cream Riva Arun Bangkok Located at the bank of the Chao Praya River, the Riva Arun Bangkok is the only luxury boutique hotel within the historical site of Bangkok amid the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and opposite the Temple of Dawn - offers a panoramic river view. Its rooftop restaurant ‘Above Riva’ offers stunning sunset views and insight into the Thai way of life. Book directly with hotel website and get one complimentary Chao Phraya Tourist Boat (Blue Flag) day pass per person. Christmas on the Roof Have Christmas Eve dinner at the rooftop restaurant and bar “Above Riva”, overlooking the iconic Wat Arun and Grand Palace for only USD 55 per couple. Riva Arun will provide each guest with a welcome cocktail, mint pie with mulled wine, and turkey amuse bouche. Party guests will celebrate in a reserved seating area for more privacy. Christmas party starts at 6pm. Book now as slots are limited. Set menu Welcome cocktail Turkey amuse bouche Mince pie with mulled wine New Year Celebration Celebrate the New Year in Bangkok in the iconic rooftop bar and restaurant Above Riva and witness the grand celebration at Wat Arun while enjoying a delicious five-course dinner and free-flowing beverage such as house wine, sparkling wine, draught beer, soft drinks and juices. Toast the New Year with a glass of Champagne when the clock strikes 12. Be entertained and dance the night away with traditional Thai dance. Set menu Amuse bouche: Vichyssoise First course: Consomme au Ravioli Second course: Lobster and Pasta Third course: Lemon Sherbet Fourth course: Pink Roasted Wagyu Fifth course: Apple Roll To those who want to try fine dining this holiday season, Riva Arun and Kiridara offer the perfect way to make Christmas and New Year with family and friends truly memorable. Book a slot at Riva Arun and Kiridara special offers and these Next Hotels guarantee you a magical experience at this time of the year.
KS Hotels and HMD Asia acquire the iconic La Résidence hotels
KS Hotels and HMD Asia announced their acquisition of Belmond's iconic La Résidence hotels, located in the charming towns of Luang Prabang in Laos and Siem Reap, Cambodia. HMD executive director Anthony Lark said of the acquisition: “We feel a deep sense of honour and responsibility in managing these beautiful small hotels and we are excited to continue their legacy of service and attention to detail, while continuing to develop unique guest experiences in the future.” HMD Asia is owned by Cambodian entrepreneur Sokoun Chanpreda and is managed by Lark who is a seasoned hotelier who previously opened and managed a number of Aman Resorts properties in Southeast Asia and the Trisara resort on Phuket. Indochina icons in hospitality La Résidence Phou Vao, the iconic hilltop sanctuary within the UNESCO Heritage region of Luang Prabang, Laos will continue to operate as normal but under the new management of HMD Asia, effective today, 1st November 2024. Guests of this legendary hotel are immersed in the culture and countryside surrounding the historic town. Long ago, Lao princes would climb Phou Vao hill to fly kites, which today is known as 'the hill of kites' and is home to the iconic La Résidence Phou Vao. On the other hand, La Résidence D’Angkor is currently closed for renovation and will be reopened in Q4-2025 under management of HMD Asia. The charming hotel is located on the riverside in Siem Reap, the gateway to the storied temples of Angkor Wat. With traditional architecture set within abundant gardens, La Résidence D’Angkor guests will be just steps from the colourful boutiques, cafes and tree-lined avenues of Siem Reap, and a short journey to the legendary temples.
Avani+ Luang Prabang
Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, Luang Prabang, Laos
Pullman Luang Prabang
Pullman Luang Prabang, Luang Prabang, Laos Laos
Enjoy a two-night stay in a Deluxe Room in Luang Prabang
In partnership with TD, Pullman Luang Prabang was giving you the chance to enjoy a complimentary Two-night stay in a Deluxe Room including daily breakfast! All you needed to do was answer this simple question