Ever heard of Luang Prabang? This is the most visited city in tiny Laos. It is not the administrative capital of the country, but let’s say it is the religious capital. It sits on the banks of the Mekong River in Asia, and has an incredible spiritual vibe. They are Buddhists and every day happens to be the almsgiving, food donation ceremony to the monks who live in some of the more than 30 temples scattered throughout the city.
This nice country is surrounded by Thailand, China, Myanmar, Vietnam and Cambodia. With so many neighbors, of course there has been serious problems. It also suffered from a Civil War and only opened the doors to tourism in 1989, after joining Communism. It has history of dense curves, French heritage and rural soul. Can you believe that until 1990 they did not have telephone? Yeah. A country that lacks simplicity and deserves to be featured in your wishlist.
To get into the Lao spirit nothing better than slow down and choose a hotel with the face of the place. The Amantaka Resort of my darling Aman group is one block from the main street, it is super well located. One of its main characteristics is that it occupies the block and the facilities of the old hospital of the city. It has an energy that can not be described. Upon arriving at the hotel, you already feel the peace that it conveys. All very spacious to house only 24 suites surrounded by gardens and pristine lawns. It’s super exclusive! That kind of place you don’t want to leave!
Discrete colors give the tone of the decor. The rooms are huge, the beds have mosquito nets, the bathroom has several sections with bath, shower and his and hers sinks (fundamental! haha), plus a heated pool in the inner courtyard of the suite.
Dinner is served by candlelight at the edge of the central pool and with Laotian music. Unforgettable. On the menu, international cuisine and the typical food of Laos very well made with local fresh produce. To keep fit, a gym super well equipped. And, in the library know what you can find? My book “Want to Travel?”. I left an autographed copy with a lot of affection to repay a little of what I received from this charming country.
Laos is one of those destinations to definitely add to your travel wishlist. I totally recommend it.
XoXo and see you all next Tuesday.
