Top 10 most popular hotels in Laos

Laos - a beautiful and peaceful country, enchanting with sacred pagodas, magnificent waterfalls and statues of Buddha with many unique shapes as well as friendly and hospitable smiles of the people. If you are planning to travel to this place, do not forget to choose your ideal destination through the suggestions of GoAsiaDayTrip on some of the most famous hotels in Laos.

1. Kiridara - One of the most famous hotels

 

The modern pool of hotel

Situated in the heart of Luang Prabang, Kiridara Hotel is close to Phu Si Mountain and Wat Mai Pagoda. The Kiridara Hotel is a great hotel as well as offers well-appointed rooms. In addition, free wifi is also available throughout the hotel. This is considered a quality hotel with the best price guarantee. So, it was voted as one of the most popular hotels in Laos.

Address: 22/13 North Road Ban Naviengkham, Luang Prabang, Laos

2. Sengtawan Riverside Hotel

 

The riverview of the hotel is the plus point that tourists can consider

This hotel is located in Vientiane, Laos, close to the Mekong River. Sengtawan Riverside provides free wifi and airport shuttle service which is extremely convenient for guests. The hotel always brings the atmosphere and fresh scenery from the gentle Mekong River. It only takes about 10 minutes to get to the city center or the airport. The convenient location of Sengtawan Riverside Hotel allows you to easily walk to many different tourist destinations.

Address: Unit3 Ban Sithan Nuean, Vientiane, Laos

3. Maison Dalabua

 

Maison Dalabua provides free bicycles so you can explore Luang Prabang more comveniently

Maison Dalabua Hotel is located in Luang Prabang at an affordable price. Recreation facilities at this property include free bicycles and an outdoor pool. Maison Dalabua is just 5 minutes' walk from the central area, so you have easy access to the night market, the Grand Palace and the nearby town area.

Address: 10 Ban Thatluang Phothisalath Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

4. The Luang Say Residence

 

The Luang Say Residence has the convenient location

Residence Luang Say is a hotel with a restaurant serving Asian and European cuisine. Situated in Luang Prabang, this hotel is close to Wat Mai Temple, Phu Si Mountain, and Royal Palace. With the days off at The Luang Say Residence, you will be quite convenient to Wat Mai to visit.

Address: 4-5 ban Phonepheng, Luang Prabang, Laos

5. Mercure Vientiane

 

The large outdoor pool of Mercure Hotel

This 4 star hotel has 4 floors and 172 rooms are quite nicely designed, as well as quite convenient to the airport. Mercure Vientiane Hotel is just 10 km from Wattay International Airport. Recreation Recreational amenities at the hotel include a sauna, an outdoor pool and a fitness center. The hotel is also conveniently located near the National Museum of Laos, Laos National Stadium, Patuxay Monument, Mercure Vientiane so it is quite convenient for you to explore.

Address: Unit 10, P.O. Box 585, Rue Samsenthai, Vientiane, Laos

6. Le Bel Air Boutique Resort and Villa, Luang Prabang

 

This is one of the most unique and interesting hotels in Luang Prabang

Located in Luang Prabang, Le Bel Air Boutique Resort and Villa is just a few minutes' walk from Phu Si Mountain and Night Market. In addition, Le Bel Air Boutique Resort has a lounge area with garden views and free Wi-Fi in the lobby area. Le Bel Air Boutique Resort & Villa is one of the most unique and interesting hotels in Luang Prabang that you should not miss.

Address: Phetsarat Road, Luang Prabang, Laos

7. The Grand Luang Prabang

 

The hotel is the combination of French and Laos design

The Grand Luang Prabang is located on the grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace area, this unique hotel belonged to the national hero of Luang Prabang. A plus point for this hotel is located on the river and in the area quite convenient for visitors to visit Wat Mai. It is known that Grand Luang Prabang is located in the Xiengkeo Palace and is designed in a combination of traditional French colonial style and traditional Lao impression.

Address: Ban Xiengkeo, Khet Sangkalok PO Box 1191, Luang Prabang, Laos

8. Villa Santi Hotel

 

Villa Santi Hotel equips quick service for guests, which are mainly businessmen

When you come to Laung Luong, make Villa Santi Hotel your first choice for accommodation in Luang Prabang. This hotel features colonial-style colonial architecture and is set in a royal-style, royal-style villa of a hundred years in Luang Prabang. This 4 star hotel is always the most comfortable and convenient whether you are on business trip or vacation in Luang Prabang. In particular, hotel staff are available 24 hours a day and can assist with booking tours as well as airline tickets for visitors quickly.

Address: Santi Resort Road, Ban Nadeuay, Luang Prabang 681, Laos

9. Vieng Tara Villa

 

The villa is located in the middle of rice field, which creates the unique experience for guests

Situated in Vang Vieng, Vieng Tara Villa is located along the riverside road and is also one of the most popular hotels in Laos. As with other hotels, it is also equipped with the most essential facilities and amenities to ensure you have a great time of rest.

Address: 111 Vang Vieng, 82995 Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Laos

10. Burasari Heritage, Luang Prabang

 

A luxury room of the hotel

This hotel is located in the heart of Luang Prabang, just a short drive from Golden City Temple and Heritage House. This 4-star hotel is close to the area of ​​Wat Pak Khan and the Night Market so it is convenient for travelers to explore. In addition, the place is well equipped with the necessary amenities with the best quality you will be satisfied.

Address: 44-47 Unit 3, Khiri Village, Luang Prabang, Laos

Laos itinerary in one week

Holiday season is coming, you have one week off work but don’t know where to go? If you are looking for a land of “green” with “laid-back lifestyle” to escape from the bustle of life, Laos in one week is definitely a good choice. This lovely country exists like a beautiful green gem in the crossroads of Asia, hiding a unique charm for adventurous travelers. With so much to offer, the whole country is too tremendous to be explored in some days. Here, let me share with you Laos itinerary in one week to make the most out of this beautiful country in the most enjoyable way.

Day 1: Vientiane

Located on the bank of Mekong River, Vientiane is the capital and the largest city of Laos. The first day of the city promises to bring you unforgettable memories of a real Vientiane. Vientiane is all about coffee and bakeries. Let your first morning start with something sweet and then we’ll walk for a little and hire a tuk-tuk to join a full day city tour. The first stop is Pha That Luang (Golden Stupa) – the golden-covered stupa and symbol of Buddhist religion in Laos. Leaving the monument, we’ll go and see must-visit wats like Wat Si Saket; and then, take a stop at the COPE centre. Remember to allow at least 30 minutes to stop here and learn more about the devastating US bombing and the current problem with UXO contamination. Late in the afternoon, you can take a boat or just stroll along the Mekong River, sit down in a café shop to enjoy the sunset.

Day 2: Vientiane

 

Natural dyeing class in Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women

This is the second day in your series of “Laos itinerary in one week”. On this second day, you can join a natural dyes class at Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women in the morning and sign up for a cooking class in the afternoon. These classes will surely bring you a deeper insight into Laos culture and Laos cuisine. Or instead, if you’re a more outdoor person, taking a kayaking and cycling trip in Phou Khao Khouay National Park may be a better option.

 Day 3: Vang Vieng

 

Take a boat in Nam Song River to feel the tranquil atmosphere

Vang Vieng is the land of beautiful mountains, villages and caves.  On the way from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, you can stop to visit Hmong Village of Km 52 and see one of the Laos oldest Buddha statute in Vang Xang. Before lunch, you’ll have time to go fishing in Ban Houy Mo Village. Arriving Vang Vieng, you can take a rest on a boat cruise along Nam Xong River. When the boat passing, you’ll see jungles, you’ll see cliffs and rice fields. This is such a tranquil experience in your Laos itinerary.

Day 4: Vang Vieng

 

Tham Chang Cave

You’re supposed to spend your whole day outside, immerse yourself in the huge of Mother Nature. You can start your day with Tham Chang cave. Then, in the afternoon, you can take part in the ziplining activity through valley, over river and jungle. Green Discovery provides a great service of this kind.

Day 5: Luang Prabang

For a wonderful Laos itinerary, you can never forget to pay a visit to Luang Prabang. This city was built on the intersection of two rivers, retaining a classical charm waiting for you to explore. Your first day tour of Luang Prabang will cover almost all main sights of the city. The first sight of these is Haw Kham – the former Royal Palace. Next, you can immerse yourself in Laos culture with a trip to numerous ornate monasteries like Wat Sene, Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Visoun.

 

Enjoy sunset in Mount Phousi

After a full lunch, let’s get ready to climb Mount Phousi from which you can get the best panoramic view in the country. As night falls, we’ll stroll around Luang Prabang Night Market and find something nice to bring home and maybe some souvenir for friends after your Laos vacation.

Day 6: Luang Prabang

 

Kuang Si Falls

The next day of Laos itinerary is all about exploration: waterfalls, wildlife and culture. For one morning, try to wake up early or you’ll miss out on the Buddhist Alms Giving Ceremony along Sakkaline Road near Wat Sensokharam. The spirit of giving is such a unique beauty in Laos culture. Luang Prabang is blessed with plenty of waterfalls. Kuang Si Falls is the most popular of all. You can go there on a tuk-tuk and don’t forget to bring your swimsuit. In the afternoon, fill you bag with water and snacks. We’ll get ready to explore Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre Kuang Si Butterfly Park (closed on Tuesday).

Day 7: Luang Prabang

 

Phosi Market

It’s your last days of your Laos itinerary. You have seen a lot. I think that’s enough discovery and exploration. Now it’s the little time left to rest, relax and go shopping. In the morning, you can pass by Phosi market to do some last-minute souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, you can go to have some coffee at Luang Prabang Artisans Café and treat yourself with some massage.

The ultimate tip for planning a Laos itinerary in one week is not to rush or try to visit many places. That way, your trip will turn into packing and unpacking on uncomfortable buses. Until now, Laos is still safe from the invasion of tourists. It’s just a matter of time when this untouched nature starts to attract more flocks of tourists. So, hurry up, grab you bag and go!

Top 10 Laos food you must try when travelling

In the landlocked country of Laos, food is the topic for various conversations. Especially, people can greet each other by “Have you eaten anything?” (Kin khao laeo bor?). I have to say that Laos food is unique and you can find no where but come to this beautiful country to taste its delicacies. The best way to explore Laos cuisine is to go through its popular local food list. Now, let me introduce to you top 10 Laos food that you must try at least once when having chance to visit this lovely country. 

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1. Kaipen (Fried Seaweed)

 

This is the famous snack in Laos

Kaipen or fried seaweed is a popular snack in Laos, rich in minerals and necessary vitamins. This snack is made of freshwater green algae and sesame seeds. The algae used to make kaipen is called kai. It is harvested from the bottom of rivers in Luang Prabang during dry season. Then kai is washed and hung to dry. Kai leaves can be eaten by themselves or used as flavours to other Laos food. Before served, Kaipen sheets are fried in a pan. This snack normally goes with a kind of chilli paste called Jaew Bong.  

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2. Khao Jee Sandwich (Baguette Sandwich)

Laotian sandwich or Khao Jee is a well-known Laos food on streets. For me, there is nothing better than a bite of Khao Jee and a cup of coffee to start the day, which is listed among best things to do in Laos. Khao Jee sandwich is quite similar to Banh mi of Vietnam. The baguette is cut in half and filled  with carrot, pork, sliced tomatoes, onion, cheese, chopped ham, chili sauce and lettuce, all are combined in a tasty bite, enclosed with a crispy layer outside. Above is a mouthwatering look of Khao Jee. 

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3. Khao Poon (Rice Vermicelli Soup)

Khao Poon is called the noodles of Laos, so when talking about Laotian rice soup, khao poon is always listed on top. The main ingredients include rice vermicelli, pork (or chicken or fish), vegetables and aromatic herbs. All of these are served inside a bowl of coconut milk broth. Due to its variety of ingredients – a characteristics of Laos food or Laos cuisine - there are many variants of khao pun. However, no matter which kind of khao poon it is, a serving always has 4 components. First is khao poon noodles or rice vermicelli. Second is spicy soup (with or without fish sauce, with or without coconut milk). Third is vegetables at the bottom. And finally is a little meat. Lime, chilli or soy sauce are also added to individual taste. 

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4. Lao Sausage - One of the best Laos food in Luang Prabang

Laotian sausage (Sai Uah or Sai Gork) is a popular type of sausage in Laos, especially well-known as one of the best Laos food in Luang Prabang. Almost every marriage, festival or religious ceremony includes this delicacy in their menu. And I’m sure this sausage is unlike any other kinds of sausage you have tried. Pork is mixed with kaffir leaves, shallots, cilantro, galangal and lemongrass. So many flavors! This dish is often eaten with some sticky rice. 

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5. Laap

Some people say that Laap (also spelled like larb or lahp, etc) is a national dish of Laos food because it is the country’s original dish and under no effect from any other culinary like Vietnam or Thailand. Laap is a kind of pork salad flavoured with fish sauce, garlic, mint leaves, onion, toasted rice and lime. Instead of pork, chicken, beef, buffalo, duck or even fish can be used as a replaca. The vegan version of Laap is made of mushroom or tofu instead of meat. Laap can be raw and cooked. But for the sake of your stomach, I will not suggest you to eat the raw version, except laap of luxury restaurant with high hygiene standard. 

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6. Tam Mak Hoong or papaya salad

 

Papaya

Tam Mak Hoong is another spicy treat that Laos food offers to its gourmet tourists. This is also called “Papaya pok pok” due to the sound it makes when pounding the pestle. The main ingredient is shredded unripe papaya, similar to Gỏi đu đủ of Vietnam and Som tam of Thailand. Apart from papaya, Tam Mak Hoong combines totally 5 main tastes together: hot chili, sour lime, savory fish sauce, sweet palm sugar and salty. Tam Mak Hoong sold on roadside is very cheap, only 5,000 kip for a serving but it can go up to 25,000 kip in restaurants. 

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7. Som Moo (Sour Pork Sausage)

Som Moo is a kind of fermented and sour pork sausage, very similar to Vietnamese nem chua and Thai name; so, another Laos food that have brothers and sisters overseas. Som Moo is made from raw pork and pork skin. Sometimes, it is wrapped inside star gooseberry leaves or banana leaves to add more flavour.  

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8. Lao Beef Jerky

 

A bottle of Laos beer is the perfect drink to eaten with beef jerk

Laos beef jerky makes a great beer snack and it could be a life saver dish for any travelers who are not really into the Asian cuisine in general or Laos food in specific. Sitting in a small shop, eating beef jerky, chatting with locals and drinking some beer is also among the recommended things to do in Laos.  

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9. Naem Khao

Naem Khao is another popular Laos food. It is crispy rice salad mixed with som moo – the sour sausage. Some other ingredients include chopped peanuts, mint, challots, grated coconut, lime, fish sauce and etc.  

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10. Mok Pa

Mok Pa is Lao steamed fish, wrapped in banana leaves, bringing the exotic taste of Laos food. This dish is appreciated by tourists as being not spicy and only using fish, herbs and vegetables, really healthy.  

Please share with me if you find any other tasty dish. I’m sure that this list will go on and on, along with the development of Laos cuisine. Hope you enjoy our top 10 Laos food that are worth a try. 

Wandering around night markets in Vientiane

Wandering around night markets in Vientiane

In some of our last articles, we have shared you the list of top night markets in Phnom Penh – the capital city of Cambodia. Our journey to night markets in Southeast Asia countries now continues with experience top night markets in Cambodia’s neighboring country – Laos. To help you out, we would like to share you our list of Top 3 night markets in Vientiane – Laos.

1. Vientiane Night Market - Riverside Night Market:

Vientiane Night Market is located at the riverside promenade, upstream from the Chao Anouvong park. This is the reason why Vientiane Night Market has another name of Riverside Night Market. The night market is featured with red awnings illuminated with reddish light bulbs. Vientiane Night Market offers great choice for clothes (shirts, blouses, pants, mini-skirts, Lao skirts, swimsuits), textiles, small crafts, accessories for mobile, music player.

Plus, the market also sells statues of Buddha, crafts, paintings, headphones, etc. Salespeople in the market are able to speak in English, French, Thai and Vietnamese so it makes easier for tourists to interact with local sellers. If you are seeking some souvenirs for your friends and family, then Vientiane Night Market is totally an ideal place.

Vientiane Night Market

There is one thing you may notice when visiting Vientiane Night Market is that, you may not see food sold here. But good news is, you can easily find many restaurants in just some stones’ throw away. A few years ago, the government decided to build a flood wall to help protect the city. They then moved restaurants away from the water’s edge to reduce the amount of trash being littered into the river and made a more communal area. Thus, the market is very tourist-friendly with clean, tidy and well-organized setting. In the evening, you can see plenty of locals go jogging through the nearby area.

Vientiane Night Market opens from 18:00 – 22:00 daily. So if you wish to see the bustle of a typical Southeast Asian night market, head to Vientiane Night Market at around 22:00.

          2. Ban Anou Night Market:

Coming next in the list of top night markets in Vientiane is Ban Anou Night Market. This is a well-known market set up every evening along the Khoun Boulom Road near the corner of Chao Anou. Ban Anou Night Market is a great place for you to enjoy Laotian food. When in here, take the chance to try out the best famous and yummy Laotian foods. Let see how much your body can take.

Food in Ban Anou Night Market

There are grilled meat kebabs, sausages, deep dried frogs, chicken and fish wrapped in banana leaves then skewed in hot charcoal grills. Then you will enjoy those foods with jeow (dipping sauce made from stalks lemongrass, fish sauce, soy sauce and lime juice). Do you hear your stomach calling?
To balance the taste with those dried grilled dishes, you are highly recommended to try out something sweet. Take some bubble tea and jelly or mung bean desserts in your menu when wandering around Ban Anou Night Market. The market opens from 17:00 – 22:00 daily.

          3. That Luang Night Market:

That Luang Night Market is the newest night market in Vientiane giving tourists more choices for nightlife escape. Located at That Luang Kang Hom 8, Vientiane, That Luang Night Market with likewise setting of two walking sides offers a quite spacious alley for tourists to walk around.
Products sold here vary from local to daily product with clothes, souvenirs, toys, electronics, etc. Interestingly, there are many food stalls set up here giving a variety of choices for customers. Polices close the area at exactly 17:30 and this place then turns into a walking area until 22:00.

That Luang Night Market

Just by walking along, tourists can see Vientiane New World Complex which serves cocktails and music making the place more vibrant at night. That Luang Night Market is a brilliant idea for both visitors and locals to spend a night enjoying the atmosphere, gathering with family and friends.
That Luang Night Market opens from 16:00 – 22:00 every day.

As a common saying, if you wish to learn the local lifestyle, the smart way is to head to its markets. With this list of top night markets in Vientiane, we hope you can now have more suggestions for your nightlife experience in the capital city of Laos – the country of millions of elephants. Some other articles below can give you more ideas to fulfill your journey in Laos:

1. Things to do in Laos
2. Laos itinerary in one week
3. Top 10 Laotian foods