After years of isolation, the landlocked nation of Laos is considered to be the jewel in Indochina's crown; Laos is slowly opening to the outside world but, at the same time, retaining its own quiet rhythm and charm. Enjoy the unhurried pace and quiet streets of the ancient Royal Capital of Luang Prapang which today is a protected World Heritage Site. The city boasts countless mosaic-covered temples sprinkled along the banks of the Mekong River and the quiet charm of the town makes it most visitors' favorite. Climb to the top of Mount Phousi which is covered with small wats and provides a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Mekong River.
During your visit you should not miss the opportunity to rise early on one of the mornings and observe the monks in their morning meal procession; you can participate by buying rice in a traditional basket and helping distribute it to the line of patient monks. Also take a trip into the countryside and discover beautiful hidden waterfalls and traditional Loa villages which still keep alive traditions like wood paper making and silk cloth weaving. Travel by long-tailed boat and discover the sacred Pak Ou caves which are carefully hidden away in the limestone cliffs and houses thousands of Buddha statues of all shapes and sizes. A visit to the Capital of Vientiane will bring you more sacred temples, ornate palaces and atmospheric morning markets to discover. This is a city where you will not be able to find bright city lights and modern shopping malls, only people going about their daily business as their forefathers once did, life here is slow and peaceful, it is a place where you can truly experience unchanged beauty.
