A Taste of Laos in Style

Itinerary

Day 1 Vientiane

Vientiane, the charming and fascinating capital of Laos, is one of the classic Indo-Chinese cities. It conjures up exotic images with its intriguing mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, American and Soviet influences. Peruse the 6,400 Buddha images at Wat Saket and gaze up at the tapered golden stupa of Pha That Luang during a city walking tour.

Day 2 Luang Prabang

Don't miss Vientiane's vibrant and colourful morning market before a flight to Luang Prabang. In the late afternoon get a sense of local history at the Royal Palace Museum, featuring an eclectic blend of French and Lao architecture, and gaze at the royal family's quarters which have remained untouched since the family left in 1975.

Day 3 Pak Ou Caves

Take a boat trip along the Mekong to the Pak Ou Caves; two sacred limestone caves full of Buddha images of all styles and sizes, brought to the caves by devoted villagers. On the way, stop at the small village of Ban Xang Hai to meet the locals and learn about the area's traditional cottage industries.

Days 4-5 Luang Prabang

In the misty early morning, lines of saffron-robed Buddhist monks walk the narrow streets and laneways to receive alms from the faithful. Explore the colourful streets lined with heady perfumed frangipani trees and gold glimmering wats and don't miss Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang's most magnificent temple.