Easy to walk anywhere and investigate anything, doors and windows are thrown open to the world. Arrive in Luang Prabang and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, your personal guide will lead you on a short introduction to this ancient, royal capital. As you wander around town you'll discover prime examples of 19th century French colonial villas and Lao-style homes. Your evening is free.
Life winds down quietly here as the setting sun glistens on the velvet waters of the Mekong.
Please let the guide suggest the best night. In the quiet morning it is fun to simply wander about, watching the city come alive. Papermakers pound mulberry bark into mulch, families tend to gardens and wood burning stoves, vendors offer a tasty breakfast treat called khao jii pat - freshly baked French baguettes filled with sweet and savory spiced pork. After breakfast, at 9am, your guide will lead you on a tour of Luang Prabang's temples and city lanes. Wat Xieng Thong is an architectural treasure trove with structures dating from 1560, spectacular mirrored murals on vividly colored walls, a three story high golden funeral chariot, and unique sacred statuary.