Luang Prabang

Nestled in the northern part of Laos, right where two rivers meet, is the beautiful and sleepy city of Luang Prabang. Many venture up the Mekong or along bumpy roads north to watch the morning ritual of hundreds of monks collecting alms, but we found the town has so much to offer from its architecture, to its cuisine, and warm residents.

The center of the town has beautifully preserved its unique architecture which blends Laotian and French Colonial design. You can see the blend of religious and cultural heritage throughout the quiet streets and alleys dotted with Wats (temples) and countless guest houses. Day and Night Markets are easy to come across, and restaurants feature some of the tastiest Laotian cuisine to be found.

A few kilometers away by scooter we had a chance to splash around in the stunning blue Kuang Si Waterfalls. Even closer were the craft markets and dusty roads full of renovated French Colonial homes-turned-guesthouses across the modest wooden bridges connecting the town center. While we certainly came across many peaceful monks throughout our days, Luang Prabang offered so much more than a tour book might highlight.   ◆