Wedged between a number of larger neighbouring countries, Laos is often overlooked in favour of tourism giants such as Thailand and Vietnam. But these travellers are missing out on an extraordinarily scenic and culturally rich destination. Laos boasts a reputation as the least visited, least Westernised, and most untouched of all Indochinese nations. Only time will tell how long this will last, but while it does, visitors who choose to explore this nation’s remote areas will be richly rewarded. Laos’ primary drawcard is undoubtedly the mighty Mekong River which traverses the length of the country and is considered the second most biodiverse river in the world. In the north, the landscape is characterised by little-explored jungle-clad mountainous areas where visitors can witness the intriguing cultures of the various hill tribes that populate this region. Travellers on the hunt for cultural interest should head for the bustling capital of Vientiane, with its innumerable temples and Buddhist monuments. It is this variety of exotic wildlife, remote wilderness and remarkable cultural treasures that make Laos a truly unique and unforgettable holiday destination.
Luang Prabang is a historic town in northern Laos, set at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and surrounded by forested mountains. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed destination, it is renowned for its well-preserved Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture and relaxed riverside atmosphere. Travellers can explore ornate monasteries, climb Mount Phousi for panoramic views, and visit the Kuang Si waterfalls, where turquoise pools cascade through lush jungle. Early risers can witness the traditional alms-giving ceremony, while the lively night market offers local handicrafts and Lao cuisine. With its blend of spiritual heritage, natural beauty and unhurried pace, Luang Prabang provides a distinctive introduction to Laos and is particularly appealing to travellers seeking culture, scenery and authentic local experiences.
Far larger than neighbouring Don Det, Don Khon is a tranquil river island threaded with scenic walking and cycling trails. Scattered French-era buildings hint at its colonial past and lend the island a nostalgic, old-world charm. Travellers can take a longtail boat in search of the rare Irrawaddy dolphins, or wander to the impressive Li Phi Waterfalls, where the Mekong thunders through a series of dramatic rapids. As day turns to dusk, the historic French bridge linking Don Khon and Don Det becomes one of the area’s most enchanting viewpoints—perfect for watching the sky shift through hues of gold, rose and deep amber over the shimmering river.
ViVientiane, the capital and largest city of Laos, offers a refreshing contrast to many Southeast Asian capitals—uncrowded, unhurried and imbued with a gentle, understated elegance. Set along the Mekong River, the city blends leafy boulevards, serene temples and evocative French-era architecture with a relaxed riverside lifestyle. Its spiritual heart is Pha That Luang, the nation’s most revered monument, a radiant 16th-century golden stupa symbolising Lao identity and Buddhist devotion. Travellers can wander between pavement cafés, atmospheric night markets and riverside restaurants, all of which reflect the city’s famously tranquil rhythm. Cultural highlights include the Laos National Museum, where thoughtfully curated exhibits trace the country’s long and complex history. With its calm disposition, historic charm and warm hospitality, Vientiane offers a captivating introduction to the soul of Laos.
Since reopening to tourists in the early 1990s, Cambodia has captivated visitors from around the globe with its rich cultural heritage, warm and welcoming people, and extraordinary natural wonders. Phnom Penh, the nation’s vibrant capital, pulses with energy, offering world-class dining, lively markets, and a spirited nightlife. Yet the country’s true treasures lie beyond the city: the sleepy, French-influenced town of Kampot enchants with its riverside promenade, colonial villas, and charming cafés; the lush, jungle-clad Cardamom Mountains reveal spectacular waterfalls and pristine wilderness; and, of course, the majestic Angkor Wat complex stands as the world’s largest and most breathtaking religious monument. Cambodia seamlessly caters to every traveller, whether seeking exhilarating jungle adventures, serene golden-sand beaches, luxurious resorts, or a journey through its tantalising local cuisine. With its blend of history, nature, and culture, Cambodia remains a destination of endless discovery and wonder.
Situated at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonle Sap rivers, Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s vibrant capital, captivates with its rich history, welcoming locals, and thriving culinary scene. The city’s heritage is immediately evident: the National Museum of Cambodia showcases over a millennium of Khmer art and design, while the monumental Royal Palace—home to King Sihamoni—features the iconic Throne Hall and the dazzling Silver Pagoda, whose floor gleams with five tons of silver. Along the Tonle Sap riverfront, visitors can enjoy refined dining and French-inspired wines, a legacy of the city’s colonial past, while the evenings come alive with lively nightclubs, karaoke performances, and stage shows. Combining culture, history, and cosmopolitan energy, Phnom Penh offers a dynamic and immersive Cambodian experience.
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s electrifying southern metropolis formerly known as Saigon, brims with a restless energy that’s impossible to resist. The city is a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and flavours: the chaotic charm of Ben Thanh Market, where vendors peddle everything from exotic spices and street snacks to tailor-made suits; the leafy oasis of Nha Hang Ngon, serving traditional Vietnamese cuisine in a garden setting; and the lively cafes, rooftop bars, and art galleries that pulse through the districts, offering endless opportunities to soak in the city’s contemporary vibe. History and culture are never far away—admire the neo-Romanesque Notre-Dame Basilica, explore the carved statues at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, reflect at the War Remnants Museum, or visit the rare Taoist sanctuary of Khanh Van Nam Vien Pagoda. From bustling streets and hidden alleys to stylish nightlife and live music, Ho Chi Minh City is a constantly evolving urban playground where every corner offers a new adventure.
Hanoi, Vietnam’s captivating capital, is a city of contrasts where centuries-old traditions coexist with vibrant urban energy. Its wide boulevards, tree-lined lakes, and ancient pagodas are infused with the elegant legacy of French colonial architecture, creating a uniquely atmospheric backdrop. Visitors can witness synchronized t’ai chi at the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, meander through the bustling Old Quarter with its maze of narrow streets, lively traders, and weaving scooters, or enjoy the whimsical art of water puppetry at the Thang Long Puppet Theatre. Highlights also include the UNESCO-listed Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, the tranquil Perfume Pagoda temple complex, and the stately Hanoi Opera House in the French Quarter. Beyond its historic sites, Hanoi pulses with cafés, markets, and street-side eateries, offering an authentic taste of Vietnam’s culture, cuisine, and daily life—making it a city that charms at every turn.
Hoi An, on Vietnam’s central coast, is a town steeped in history and timeless charm. Known as Faifo to foreign traders centuries ago, it was a bustling port from the 15th to 19th centuries, attracting merchants from China, Japan, Portugal, and the Netherlands. This rich trading heritage is evident in its eclectic architecture: Japanese merchant houses with curved rooflines, Chinese assembly halls adorned with intricate carvings, and French colonial buildings lining the ancient streets. The town’s canals once carried goods from the Thu Bon River to the sea, facilitating Hoi An’s prominence in regional and global trade. Today, with cars restricted from the main streets, visitors can wander peacefully through its lantern-lit alleys, riverside markets, and temples, while boutique hotels, tailor shops, art studios, and cafés bring the historic port to life. Nearby, the ruins of My Son Sanctuary offer a glimpse into the Cham Kingdom’s Hindu past, complementing Hoi An’s multi-layered history and cultural heritage.
Situated on the south bank of the Hau River in the Mekong Delta or ‘nine dragon river delta’, Can Tho offers an interesting blend of rural peace and a gently developing urban infrastructure. Catch some of the buzz at the lively waterfront, or stroll through the narrow backstreets to discover exquisite sculptured gardens and Buddhist pagodas. The city is known for its many canals weaving through and out of the city. On your boat ride, visit the floating market for an authentic experience, including a taste of exotic local fruit.
