LAOS | 12 Days Laos Discovery

Sitting on the banks of the Mekong, the Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge is midway between the World Heritage Town of Luang Prabang, and Huay Xai, the main border crossing between northern Thailand and northern Laos. Both towns are reachable by a heavenly 1-day cruise experience, or a half day drive through the hilltops and along ethnic villages indigenous to this region of Laos.

The Lodge is an ideal starting point for hilltribe trekking to discover Khamu villages off the main tourist trail. It also faces the Mekong Elephant Park, a sanctuary dedicated to the protection of elephants which offers a wonderful and respectful opportunity to discover the life of an animal important in Lao culture.

The Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge suggests that you stay a few days in this protected area off the beaten track. You will enjoy the comfortable atmosphere, the picturesque sunrise and sunset over the Mekong, and the comings and goings of the different boats that dock near the Lodge’s beach. Your visit will be one of relaxation but also of authentic encounters and an immersion into traditional Lao life.

Sofitel Luang Prabang, located in a refurbished French colonial fort, is one of Luang Prabang's most historic luxury hotels. Sofitel Luang Prabang is an all-suite property with 23 suites and pool suites, all designed in contemporary style with a bathtub, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV, DVD player and iPod, as well as a private terrace/garden area. An all-day dining restaurant serves classic Lao cuisine, and the colonial-style bar is a great spot to enjoy a cocktail by the fireplace. The hotel also has a spa and library.

Vansana Plain of Jars Hotel is located in Phonsavan, the capital of Xiangkhouang Province in Laos. The hotel is located near the Plain of Jars, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel offers spacious rooms with balconies, flat-screen TVs and refrigerators. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfasts at the hotel. The hotel also has a coffee shop, a massage service, and a 24-hour front desk. For dining options, guests can explore nearby restaurants that serve local and international cuisines, such as Cranky-T Cafe and Bar, Nisha Restaurant, and Simmaly Restaurant.

The historic Settha Palace Hotel is centrally located in Vientiane within walking distance of the Mekong River, Thatluang Stupa, Namphu Fountain, and other cultural highlights. Built in French colonial style circa 1932 and restored and reopened in 1999, the hotel has 22 rooms and three suites, all featuring rosewood four-poster beds and armoires, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

For dining, La Belle Epoque offers French cuisine, and the Sidewalk Café is a pleasant open-air venue offering Asian and international dishes. Amenities include a spa, pool and Jacuzzi; however there is no fitness center. Additionally, there is a business center with internet and fax services. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Wattai International Airport and a 25-minute drive to Thadeua, where there is a border bridge to Thailand.

Located alongside the Mekong River around 30 kilometres from Pakse, The River Resort offers stylish and comfortable accommodation with fantastic views. The 14 riverside rooms (and six pond-side rooms) have air-conditioning and ceiling fans, indoor and outdoor showers, mini bar, complimentary wireless internet, telephone, safety box and flat-screen televisions.

The hotel has a contemporary style and boasts a swimming pool and massage pavillion. There are dining facilities including an open air location, barbeque area and a bar serving snacks throughout the day.

Known for its excellent service, Sala Done Khone in Champasak offers both amenities and choices for the discerning yet adventurous traveler. Situated right along the Mekong River within a short distance of both Wat Phu and the “four thousand islands,” the resort offers three different types of rooms, each with their own distinctive design and allure: eight boutique, floating cabins with spacious rooms and verandas that offer beautiful vistas of the Mekong from the room while floating on the river; eight rooms in a traditional Lao residence built entirely of rosewood and decorated with local art and objects; and ten bungalow residences, which offer an experience closer to camping in their simplicity. Amenities include laundry services, a restaurant serving Lao, Thai and European food with jazz music, and a business center. The Sala Done Khone is approximately one hour by car from Pakse International Airport (PKZ), with daily service to Vientiane (VTE), Siem Reap (REP), and Savannakhet Airports (ZVK)

The historic Settha Palace Hotel is centrally located in Vientiane within walking distance of the Mekong River, Thatluang Stupa, Namphu Fountain, and other cultural highlights. Built in French colonial style circa 1932 and restored and reopened in 1999, the hotel has 22 rooms and three suites, all featuring rosewood four-poster beds and armoires, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

For dining, La Belle Epoque offers French cuisine, and the Sidewalk Café is a pleasant open-air venue offering Asian and international dishes. Amenities include a spa, pool and Jacuzzi; however there is no fitness center. Additionally, there is a business center with internet and fax services. The hotel is a 10-minute drive from Wattai International Airport and a 25-minute drive to Thadeua, where there is a border bridge to Thailand.