4 days / 3 nights
Luang Prabang, capital of the Lane Xang Kingdom in the 14th century, is rich in cultural heritage and makes for an interesting visit in Northern Laos either pre or post the Eastern & Oriental Express.
Day 1 : Luang Prabang
Fly from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, and transfer to La Résidence Phou Vao for three nights in a Garden View room. Enjoy a taste of Laotian cuisine tonight in the hotel's attractive restaurant.
La Résidence Phou Vao
Offering travellers a peaceful sanctuary set at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers with breathtaking views of the mountains is La Résidence Phou Vao, an Orient-Express property. Set among three hectares of lush gardens, rich with bougainvillea, frangipani and palms, the hotel offers 34 spacious rooms and suites, each with balcony, decorated with rosewood and furnished with local materials to reflect the harmony and heritage of Lao architecture. Each room has a mini bar, safe and satellite TV.
Leisure facilities include a stunning infinity pool, and a sumptuous Spa - the first in Luang Prabang. The Spa offers a full range of face and body treatments including facials, massages, and packages for individuals and couples. The custom-designed spa treatments are based on traditional Lao herbal remedies aimed at healing and nurturing, and use only pure botanical ingredients from the organic herb garden and local farms.
Follow a passage, with doors painted with guardian divinities, to the restaurant. French cuisine, with exotic touches, and traditional lao dishes, are served with impeccable service. After dinner, perhaps enjoy a nightcap in Dok Champa bar.
Day 2 : Luang Prabang
Your private guide will meet you at the hotel this morning and take you on a full day of sightseeing, visiting Phousi Hill with its fine view of the city, the Royal Palace and, after lunch at a local restaurant, fine temples with a unique style, which are found throughout the city. There will be a chance to visit the splendid night market before returning to the hotel for dinner.
Day 3 : Luang Prabang
Today, visit the most important temple, Wat Xieng Thong, before boarding a boat for a ride on the Mekong to the Pak Ou caves, where countless images of Buddha are to be found. Cross the Mekong to lunch at a local restaurant before visiting Ban Xanghai where local rice wine is made. On the return to Luang Prabang a stop will be made at Ban Phanom village, well known for hand weaving and local handicrafts. Enjoy a final dinner with the chance to reflect on your visit to Luang Prabang.
Day 4 : Bangkok
Transfer to the airport and the return flight to Bangkok.
Holiday Prices (per person) 2008 :
| Jan - Sep | Oct - Dec | |
|---|---|---|
| £680 | £740 | |
Supplements
Supplements apply April 13 - 17 & Dec 23 - 31 £15 per night. Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve dinner supplements apply, price on request.