Laos Archives - Asian Itinerary https://asianitinerary.com/category/laos/ Travel, Holiday, Adventure Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:54:33 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Laos: A Land of a Thousand Faces https://asianitinerary.com/laos-ethnic-diversity-culture/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laos-ethnic-diversity-culture Fri, 31 Oct 2025 14:54:33 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=69364

Among the pearls of the Andaman, roses of the north, diamonds here, sapphires there, and while we’re at it, let’s also add a few Purple Roses of Cairo—these are all titles that have been attributed, perhaps rightly so, to the main tourist destinations around the world. Yet, there is one that lacks any redundant nickname but perhaps deserves it more than many others. Yes, because in the end, Laos appears as a hidden gem whose sparkle, seemingly not very vivid, cannot help but enchant all those travelers who, with an innate instinct for thievery, manage to catch its glimmer and seize the many moments of beauty that the country has to offer. A reflection that seems to ignite thanks to its enchanting nature, which frames its cultural richness, at the heart of which lie ethnic roots that have permeated its society, giving rise to a woven tapestry of customs and traditions. It is like a crown whose main jewel is represented by the Lao people, surrounded by many small equally precious gems that are nothing more than the numerous ethnicities that make up the population. Behind the scenes, almost dispersed, in rural villages and remote communities—whether they are nestled along more or less rugged mountain roads, leaving little room for a normal life, or whether they are villages that develop along waterways, first and foremost the Mekong, where access to transportation and other “amenities” is far greater—behind the scenes of the majestic hills covered in dense vegetation and the banks of rivers from every region, communities grow, mostly agrarian, whose roots run deep into the culture of the land, hiding unique stories that are just waiting to be whispered into the ears of those who wish to listen. These are the stories of diverse ethnicities, which, when read together, contribute to weaving that intricate and vibrant fabric that is Laos. Laos is home to over 80 ethnic groups, each with its own history, language, and beliefs. Ethnic roots that, when combined, offer a testament to the history of this country, made up of migrations mostly influenced by historical, political, and economic factors, as well as cultural exchanges and external influences that have in some way shaped its history. Cultural intertwining can be seen in almost every aspect of daily life, which does not remain isolated but mixes together, creating a vibrant and multifaceted cultural and human landscape where traditions, practices, and customs blend and influence each other. In the remote mountainous regions and river valleys, communities continue to preserve their millennia-old traditions and live in harmony with the surrounding nature. The stories of the different communities transport us back in time, revealing the importance of ties to the land, respect for ancestors, and love for simple living. The ethnic groups of Laos, such as the Hmong, Khamu, Tai, and many others, have traversed centuries of history and maintained their unique identities despite social changes and external influences. They are vibrant communities with traditions passed down orally. Each community has its own voices, manifested through songs, dances, ceremonies, and stories handed down from generation to generation. Voices of diversity that resonate in the rhythms of drums, the melodies of flutes, and the harmonious intertwining of incomprehensible languages and dialects, sometimes even for the Lao themselves. It is through these voices that we can understand the depth of wisdom and experience that the different communities have to offer, and it is in this ethnic mosaic that the Hmong population stands out, having a long history that has been discussed in more recent times, but also possessing a culture, distinctive customs, and traditional practices that continue to fascinate and attract the attention of those who immerse themselves in their reality. The Hmong are an ethnic group originating from the mountainous regions of southern China, particularly the provinces of Guizhou, Yunnan, and Sichuan. Over the centuries, the Hmong have migrated towards Vietnam, Thailand, and, of course, Laos, where they represent one of the largest ethnic minorities in the country, with an estimated population of over 450,000 people. Their migration to Laos dates back to around the 19th century, when the Qing dynasty ruled China and was reportedly responsible for persecutions against the Hmong, causing the political tensions that led to their movement towards the mountainous regions of northern and central Laos. Traditionally, the Hmong people are farmers dedicated to cultivating crops such as rice, corn, and vegetables, which they grow, not without effort, in the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia where they live. They also have a history of cultivating opium poppies, used to produce heroin and other illegal drugs, which was encouraged by the CIA during the so-called “dirty war,” when the American agency unsuccessfully exploited the Hmong people to fight against the communist forces of the Pathet Lao. The Hmong were trained and equipped by the United States and provided with air support to carry out their operations against the forces opposing the government in power, supported by the Americans, becoming involved in intelligence gathering, counter-insurgency operations, and rescue missions for downed American pilots, in addition to actions aimed at limiting the use of the Ho Chi Minh trail by Vietnamese forces. A role fraught with danger and significant consequences for the Hmong minority, which, in addition to suffering heavy losses, is estimated to have seen up to 30,000 Hmong fighters and civilians lose their lives during the conflict, not to mention the wounded or displaced, who faced harsh persecution and repression from the Laotian government after the war. New political tensions in their land, therefore, and a new diaspora that scattered them among refugee camps in neighboring Thailand and asylum in France and the United States of America, which, at least this time, did not forget those who had helped them at such a high price. In the years immediately following the war, the Hmong who remained in Laos faced significant discrimination, including limited access to education and healthcare, a kind of retribution for their position taken during the war,...

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Among the pearls of the Andaman, roses of the north, diamonds here, sapphires there, and while we’re at it, let’s also add a few Purple Roses of Cairo—these are all titles that have been attributed, perhaps rightly so, to the main tourist destinations around the world. Yet, there is one that lacks any redundant nickname but perhaps deserves it more than many others. Yes, because in the end, Laos appears as a hidden gem whose sparkle, seemingly not very vivid, cannot help but enchant all those travelers who, with an innate instinct for thievery, manage to catch its glimmer and seize the many moments of beauty that the country has to offer. A reflection that seems to ignite thanks to its enchanting nature, which frames its cultural richness, at the heart of which lie ethnic roots that have permeated its society, giving rise to a woven tapestry of customs and traditions.

It is like a crown whose main jewel is represented by the Lao people, surrounded by many small equally precious gems that are nothing more than the numerous ethnicities that make up the population.

Behind the scenes, almost dispersed, in rural villages and remote communities—whether they are nestled along more or less rugged mountain roads, leaving little room for a normal life, or whether they are villages that develop along waterways, first and foremost the Mekong, where access to transportation and other “amenities” is far greater—behind the scenes of the majestic hills covered in dense vegetation and the banks of rivers from every region, communities grow, mostly agrarian, whose roots run deep into the culture of the land, hiding unique stories that are just waiting to be whispered into the ears of those who wish to listen.
These are the stories of diverse ethnicities, which, when read together, contribute to weaving that intricate and vibrant fabric that is Laos.

Laos is home to over 80 ethnic groups, each with its own history, language, and beliefs. Ethnic roots that, when combined, offer a testament to the history of this country, made up of migrations mostly influenced by historical, political, and economic factors, as well as cultural exchanges and external influences that have in some way shaped its history. Cultural intertwining can be seen in almost every aspect of daily life, which does not remain isolated but mixes together, creating a vibrant and multifaceted cultural and human landscape where traditions, practices, and customs blend and influence each other.

In the remote mountainous regions and river valleys, communities continue to preserve their millennia-old traditions and live in harmony with the surrounding nature. The stories of the different communities transport us back in time, revealing the importance of ties to the land, respect for ancestors, and love for simple living.
The ethnic groups of Laos, such as the Hmong, Khamu, Tai, and many others, have traversed centuries of history and maintained their unique identities despite social changes and external influences. They are vibrant communities with traditions passed down orally. Each community has its own voices, manifested through songs, dances, ceremonies, and stories handed down from generation to generation. Voices of diversity that resonate in the rhythms of drums, the melodies of flutes, and the harmonious intertwining of incomprehensible languages and dialects, sometimes even for the Lao themselves. It is through these voices that we can understand the depth of wisdom and experience that the different communities have to offer, and it is in this ethnic mosaic that the Hmong population stands out, having a long history that has been discussed in more recent times, but also possessing a culture, distinctive customs, and traditional practices that continue to fascinate and attract the attention of those who immerse themselves in their reality.

The Hmong are an ethnic group originating from the mountainous regions of southern China, particularly the provinces of Guizhou, Yunnan, and Sichuan. Over the centuries, the Hmong have migrated towards Vietnam, Thailand, and, of course, Laos, where they represent one of the largest ethnic minorities in the country, with an estimated population of over 450,000 people.
Their migration to Laos dates back to around the 19th century, when the Qing dynasty ruled China and was reportedly responsible for persecutions against the Hmong, causing the political tensions that led to their movement towards the mountainous regions of northern and central Laos.

Traditionally, the Hmong people are farmers dedicated to cultivating crops such as rice, corn, and vegetables, which they grow, not without effort, in the mountainous regions of Southeast Asia where they live.

An elderly Hmong woman

They also have a history of cultivating opium poppies, used to produce heroin and other illegal drugs, which was encouraged by the CIA during the so-called “dirty war,” when the American agency unsuccessfully exploited the Hmong people to fight against the communist forces of the Pathet Lao. The Hmong were trained and equipped by the United States and provided with air support to carry out their operations against the forces opposing the government in power, supported by the Americans, becoming involved in intelligence gathering, counter-insurgency operations, and rescue missions for downed American pilots, in addition to actions aimed at limiting the use of the Ho Chi Minh trail by Vietnamese forces. A role fraught with danger and significant consequences for the Hmong minority, which, in addition to suffering heavy losses, is estimated to have seen up to 30,000 Hmong fighters and civilians lose their lives during the conflict, not to mention the wounded or displaced, who faced harsh persecution and repression from the Laotian government after the war.

New political tensions in their land, therefore, and a new diaspora that scattered them among refugee camps in neighboring Thailand and asylum in France and the United States of America, which, at least this time, did not forget those who had helped them at such a high price.

In the years immediately following the war, the Hmong who remained in Laos faced significant discrimination, including limited access to education and healthcare, a kind of retribution for their position taken during the war, to which they responded with new episodes of violence and terrorist attacks.

Such as in 2007, a few months before my first visit to Laos, when rebel groups based in the jungles of northern Laos carried out several attacks against government targets, including military outposts and police stations, but also targeted tourists visiting that region. One particular incident was recounted to me during the bus ride from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, when a young Lao, sitting not far from me, attempted to awkwardly hide an AK-47 beneath a worn jacket, awakening, needless to say, my curiosity. When I asked, I was told it was a form of protection for travelers after a group of Hmong rebels had attacked a tourist bus, killing a Chinese citizen and injuring several others.

The Laotian government responded to the rebels’ hostilities with a crackdown that lasted several years, causing loss of life and further suffering to the population until it sought to establish lasting peace with the Hmong people by beginning to address some of the causes that fueled the rebellion.

One of the fundamental steps taken by the Laotian government was the establishment of a program to resettle and integrate Hmong refugees who had fled to Thailand during the conflict. Thanks to this program, tens of thousands of refugees were resettled in Laos and provided with housing, education, and other forms of assistance.
Additionally, the Laotian government has undertaken actions to improve the economic and social conditions of the Hmong people, seeking to promote their identity and protect their cultural heritage. For example, the government has supported the development of Hmong language and culture programs, provided funding for infrastructure projects in villages, and promoted the participation of members of that ethnicity in local government decisions.

Significant efforts have also been made to encourage the Hmong to abandon opium production in the region by providing alternative livelihoods for farmers.

In addition to agriculture, the Hmong are also traditionally known for their skills in weaving and embroidery. Hmong women have a long tradition of producing intricate textiles and embroideries using techniques passed down from generation to generation, and there has been no Hmong village we visited where we did not find women bent over looms or engaged in embroidery, surrounded by more or less primitive tools and threads or “beads” of all colors.
Yes, the Hmong women… we met some who appeared disheveled, in tattered clothes, but who behind a neglect born from a life of hard work and pregnancies hide a beauty that is unexpected. A simple, almost natural beauty, and then they have that smile that seems to be half of Asia’s secret weapon.
Not all have been able to choose their husbands, nor have all been chosen by their families, because among the Hmong there is also a practice that we could define as “bride kidnapping.”
I had already heard about it in the mountainous tribal regions of Vietnam in the far north, where it was common to abduct a woman solely for the purpose of marrying her.

In her home, in a village we visited, a 23-year-old girl, currently engaged in weaving with a newborn sleeping on a hammock shielded from the world’s eyes by the dim light, calmly told us how, following her “kidnapping” by the man who would become her husband, she had been living this new life for about a year, in a village unknown to her and among equally unknown people, and to a specific question, she replied that she was happy with her new situation.

I certainly did not expect that she would confess the opposite to strangers.

Regardless of the positive or negative effects on women, it’s important to note that this practice is illegal and that the Laotian government has recently made efforts to educate young Hmong about the negative consequences of this practice and promote safer and consensual ways to find a partner.

We focused only on the Hmong because they provided us with some insights and curiosities, but every ethnic group has stories to tell, interwoven with moments of joy, pain, and resilience. Every story that emerges from the ethnic communities of Laos is a precious piece in the cultural mosaic of the country. Stories that offer a window into both material poverty and the cultural richness and diversity of Laos, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the social and human context of different communities. And during this journey we undertook, we had the opportunity to meet these simple people, we sensed the smell of dignified poverty and the warmth of smiles, the weight of daily struggles, and the sense of belonging; we listened attentively to the stories, tales, and superstitions of a country with a thousand faces that tries to move toward its future, difficult to reach but inevitable to pursue.
The Laotian government has adopted policies to protect and promote the cultural diversity of the country by recognizing citizenship to minority groups and guaranteeing them, as citizens, the same rights and protections provided by law. However, there are still signs of discrimination, especially in access to economic opportunities, but above all, there are still challenges and difficulties that ethnic minorities must face. For example, many ethnic groups have been forced to leave their ancestral lands to make way for large development projects, such as the construction of hydroelectric dams.

Cultural intertwining, contradictions, and the poverty that seems to resist acceptance make Laos, through encounters with the various ethnic groups that comprise it, a fascinating place to explore and understand, teaching us the importance of preserving and valuing cultural diversity here as well as everywhere else in the world.

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

 

The post Laos: A Land of a Thousand Faces appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Discover Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area, Laos https://asianitinerary.com/nakai-nam-theun-national-protected-area-laos/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nakai-nam-theun-national-protected-area-laos Thu, 09 Oct 2025 14:52:10 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=69009

Deep in the karstic mountains of central Laos lies a corner of the world that feels untouched by time. The Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area is a hidden wilderness of limestone peaks, winding rivers, and dense forests, slowly revealing itself to the few travelers who venture here. From the moment you set foot in this remote region, it’s clear that you’ve stepped into one of Southeast Asia’s last great natural sanctuaries. An Encounter With Rare Wildlife The mornings here are alive with sound. As the mist lifts off the rivers, the melodies of southern white-cheeked gibbons echo through the trees, mingling with the calls of exotic birds. Glimpses of the vibrant red-shanked douc langurs leaping across the canopy remind you that this forest is their kingdom. The area also shelters elusive species like Asian elephants, small-clawed otters, and the almost mythical saola, often called the Asian unicorn. Conservation projects are crucial in protecting these fragile ecosystems while allowing travelers to witness them responsibly. Camping and River Adventures For the most immersive experience, I joined a two-day camping trip organized from Phosy Guesthouse in Thalang. The journey began with a gentle boat ride along the Nam Not River, guided by a local villager who shared stories of the forest and its wildlife. Cooking freshly caught fish over the campfire as the stars glittered above was a moment of pure serenity. Sleeping on a sandy river beach surrounded by untouched jungle, I was serenaded to sleep by the distant calls of gibbons and the gentle flow of the river. Waking up to this symphony of life is an experience few places in the world can offer. After breakfast, we hiked through the forest to a hidden waterfall, each step revealing another marvel of the Annamite wilderness. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers, and every turn offered glimpses of the park’s remarkable biodiversity. Exploring “The Loop” While many travelers stick to the motorbike circuit known as The Loop, which skirts the edges of the park, I found venturing into the heart of Nakai Nam Theun to be the most rewarding. The Loop offers stunning views of limestone peaks and jungle valleys, but venturing deeper unveils the stories of the forest—the songs, the wildlife, and the sense of being completely immersed in nature. Looking Forward The area is gradually developing for ecotourism. New French-built lookouts and forest trails are opening, offering safer and more immersive experiences. Exciting events like Laos’ first triathlon, scheduled to take place in December, promise to bring more visitors while highlighting the region’s natural beauty. Visiting Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area feels like stepping into a living travel journal. Each day is a mix of adventure, wildlife encounters, and quiet reflection. For travelers seeking more than a simple sightseeing trip, it offers a chance to connect deeply with one of Laos’ most extraordinary landscapes.

The post Discover Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area, Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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Deep in the karstic mountains of central Laos lies a corner of the world that feels untouched by time. The Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area is a hidden wilderness of limestone peaks, winding rivers, and dense forests, slowly revealing itself to the few travelers who venture here. From the moment you set foot in this remote region, it’s clear that you’ve stepped into one of Southeast Asia’s last great natural sanctuaries.

An Encounter With Rare Wildlife

The almost mythical saola

The mornings here are alive with sound. As the mist lifts off the rivers, the melodies of southern white-cheeked gibbons echo through the trees, mingling with the calls of exotic birds. Glimpses of the vibrant red-shanked douc langurs leaping across the canopy remind you that this forest is their kingdom. The area also shelters elusive species like Asian elephants, small-clawed otters, and the almost mythical saola, often called the Asian unicorn. Conservation projects are crucial in protecting these fragile ecosystems while allowing travelers to witness them responsibly.

Camping and River Adventures

For the most immersive experience, I joined a two-day camping trip organized from Phosy Guesthouse in Thalang. The journey began with a gentle boat ride along the Nam Not River, guided by a local villager who shared stories of the forest and its wildlife. Cooking freshly caught fish over the campfire as the stars glittered above was a moment of pure serenity. Sleeping on a sandy river beach surrounded by untouched jungle, I was serenaded to sleep by the distant calls of gibbons and the gentle flow of the river. Waking up to this symphony of life is an experience few places in the world can offer.

After breakfast, we hiked through the forest to a hidden waterfall, each step revealing another marvel of the Annamite wilderness. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and wildflowers, and every turn offered glimpses of the park’s remarkable biodiversity.

Exploring “The Loop”

While many travelers stick to the motorbike circuit known as The Loop, which skirts the edges of the park, I found venturing into the heart of Nakai Nam Theun to be the most rewarding. The Loop offers stunning views of limestone peaks and jungle valleys, but venturing deeper unveils the stories of the forest—the songs, the wildlife, and the sense of being completely immersed in nature.

Looking Forward

Asian elephants at Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area

The area is gradually developing for ecotourism. New French-built lookouts and forest trails are opening, offering safer and more immersive experiences. Exciting events like Laos’ first triathlon, scheduled to take place in December, promise to bring more visitors while highlighting the region’s natural beauty.

Visiting Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area feels like stepping into a living travel journal. Each day is a mix of adventure, wildlife encounters, and quiet reflection. For travelers seeking more than a simple sightseeing trip, it offers a chance to connect deeply with one of Laos’ most extraordinary landscapes.

The post Discover Nakai Nam Theun National Protected Area, Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Exploring Xe Bang Fai River Cave in Laos https://asianitinerary.com/xe-bang-fai-river-cave-laos/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=xe-bang-fai-river-cave-laos Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:52:59 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=68993

Tucked away in the limestone pinnacles of Khammouane province, central Laos, the Xe Bang Fai River Cave is one of the world’s largest river caves and a dream for adventurous travelers. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, this natural wonder promises kayaking through enormous tunnels, encounters with unique wildlife, and a taste of true wilderness. Why Visit Xe Bang Fai River Cave? The cave stretches for four miles underground, with a ceiling that reaches 120 meters high and a width of up to 200 meters at its largest points. Its sheer size is awe-inspiring, making it perfect for photography, adventure, and nature appreciation. Inside, visitors can spot: The giant huntsman spider, discovered in 2001, with a leg span of nearly one foot. The world’s largest single rimstone basins—terraced pools formed by mineral deposits. Hexagonal cave pearls, lined up like a monster’s eggs near the “dragon’s hatchery” viewing gallery. These features make the cave not only a natural marvel but also a fascinating site for those interested in geology and biodiversity. How to Explore the Cave Kayaking is the most immersive way to experience Xe Bang Fai. Wooden kayaks are available locally, but to cover the full four-mile underground passage, including portaging over five rapids, it’s best to book a guided tour. Travel agencies provide inflatable kayaks and experienced guides who ensure a safe, memorable journey. Camping by the Cave After kayaking, consider camping next to the jade-colored pool at the cave entrance. It’s a serene spot to enjoy the quiet sounds of the river and reflect on the adventure. Nights here are peaceful, with minimal light pollution—perfect for stargazing. Tips for Travelers Timing: The dry season (November to April) is ideal; higher water levels in the wet season can make kayaking tricky. Gear: Wear quick-dry clothing and sturdy sandals. Don’t forget a waterproof camera or GoPro. Local Culture: Support community tourism by buying food or crafts in Nong Ping; your contribution helps preserve this off-the-beaten-path destination. Getting There Xe Bang Fai is still relatively undiscovered, so prepare for a long but scenic journey through rural Laos. The surrounding landscape is dotted with karst mountains, rice paddies, and small villages, offering a glimpse of authentic Lao life before you reach the cave. Exploring the Xe Bang Fai River Cave is more than an adventure—it’s a journey into one of the least-visited corners of Laos, where nature reveals some of its most extraordinary secrets. Whether kayaking through vast limestone chambers or camping by the jade pool, this hidden gem promises memories that will last a lifetime.

The post Exploring Xe Bang Fai River Cave in Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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Kayaks inside Xe Bang Fai River Cave

Tucked away in the limestone pinnacles of Khammouane province, central Laos, the Xe Bang Fai River Cave is one of the world’s largest river caves and a dream for adventurous travelers. For those willing to venture off the beaten path, this natural wonder promises kayaking through enormous tunnels, encounters with unique wildlife, and a taste of true wilderness.

Why Visit Xe Bang Fai River Cave?

The cave stretches for four miles underground, with a ceiling that reaches 120 meters high and a width of up to 200 meters at its largest points. Its sheer size is awe-inspiring, making it perfect for photography, adventure, and nature appreciation. Inside, visitors can spot:

  • The giant huntsman spider

    The giant huntsman spider, discovered in 2001, with a leg span of nearly one foot.

  • The world’s largest single rimstone basins—terraced pools formed by mineral deposits.

  • Hexagonal cave pearls, lined up like a monster’s eggs near the “dragon’s hatchery” viewing gallery.

These features make the cave not only a natural marvel but also a fascinating site for those interested in geology and biodiversity.

How to Explore the Cave

Kayaking is the most immersive way to experience Xe Bang Fai. Wooden kayaks are available locally, but to cover the full four-mile underground passage, including portaging over five rapids, it’s best to book a guided tour. Travel agencies provide inflatable kayaks and experienced guides who ensure a safe, memorable journey.

Camping by the Cave

After kayaking, consider camping next to the jade-colored pool at the cave entrance. It’s a serene spot to enjoy the quiet sounds of the river and reflect on the adventure. Nights here are peaceful, with minimal light pollution—perfect for stargazing.

Tips for Travelers

  • Timing: The dry season (November to April) is ideal; higher water levels in the wet season can make kayaking tricky.

  • Gear: Wear quick-dry clothing and sturdy sandals. Don’t forget a waterproof camera or GoPro.

  • Local Culture: Support community tourism by buying food or crafts in Nong Ping; your contribution helps preserve this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Getting There

Xe Bang Fai is still relatively undiscovered, so prepare for a long but scenic journey through rural Laos. The surrounding landscape is dotted with karst mountains, rice paddies, and small villages, offering a glimpse of authentic Lao life before you reach the cave.

Exploring the Xe Bang Fai River Cave is more than an adventure—it’s a journey into one of the least-visited corners of Laos, where nature reveals some of its most extraordinary secrets. Whether kayaking through vast limestone chambers or camping by the jade pool, this hidden gem promises memories that will last a lifetime.

The post Exploring Xe Bang Fai River Cave in Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Saved Bears, Rediscovered Lives in Laos https://asianitinerary.com/saved-bears-rediscovered-lives-in-laos/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=saved-bears-rediscovered-lives-in-laos Thu, 11 Sep 2025 19:51:35 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=68369

There is a particular kind of silence in bear sanctuaries in Laos. Not emptiness, but stillness filled with presence. It’s the breath of an animal stretching in the sun after years in a cage. The sound of paws touching free ground for the first time. The rustle of a tree chosen for a nap—not because it’s the only shelter, but because it feels good. Asian black bears—also known as “moon bears” for the pale crescent on their chest—are not loud creatures. But when you see them walk, climb, sniff the air with quiet curiosity, you understand: every movement is an act of freedom. Everyone knows the best place for a bear is the forest. But for many of those now living in the sanctuary near Luang Prabang, the forest is a distant memory—or perhaps a place they’ve never known. They were taken from the wild by poachers, sold, imprisoned. Some destined for bile farms, kept in metal crates barely larger than their bodies, with tubes inserted into their gallbladders to extract fluid used in traditional medicine. Others were reduced to street performers, forced to dance with chains on their teeth and paws burned by fire. A life that was never truly living. Thankfully, for some of them, that story has ended. Not by miracle, but by the quiet determination of a woman from Perth, Australia, who in 1993 watched a documentary and decided she couldn’t look away. Her name was Mary Hutton. The footage—bears in wire cages, eyes dim, bodies scarred—struck her like a wound. The next day, with a petition in hand, she stood outside a shopping center and asked people to sign for “Free the Bears.” From that simple, stubborn act, an organization was born. At first, it seemed impossible. But Mary never stopped. She raised funds, educated communities, and built sanctuaries. The first in Cambodia, then one in Vietnam, and in 2003, the Luang Prabang Bear Rescue Centre in Laos. When her son Simon, who shared her mission, died tragically in 2005 while building the Cambodian sanctuary, many would have given up. Mary didn’t. She said she would continue—for him. And she did. Today, at eighty, she still leads the organization from her garage in Perth. And thanks to her and those who stood beside her, more than 950 bears have been rescued across Asia. These are not empty numbers—they are real stories. A bear learning to run. Another relearning how to feel wind in his fur. Some will never return to the wild, but they’ve relearned what it means to be a bear. Laos, like many Southeast Asian countries, has seen wild bear populations collapse due to poaching, deforestation, and illegal wildlife trade. Bears are legally protected, and international trade in body parts is banned. Yet, demand for paws, claws, and especially bile persists. Bear bile has been used for centuries to treat liver and gallbladder conditions, but today, effective herbal and synthetic alternatives exist—cruelty-free and widely available. Still, in China, an estimated 10,000 bears remain in bile farms. In Laos and Vietnam, the numbers have dropped—fewer than 100 in Laos, under 220 in Vietnam—but every bear in a cage is one too many. Free the Bears never pays for bears. It’s a principle: paying would fuel the market. Instead, they work with government authorities who confiscate illegally held animals and transfer them to sanctuaries. It’s slow work—built on patience, bureaucracy, sleepless nights. But also, quiet victories: a bear freed, a village educated, a traditional medicine practitioner convinced to switch to alternatives. In 2017, the Luang Prabang sanctuary expanded into a multi-species refuge—now home to gibbons, deer, birds—but the bears remain its heart. You see them rolling in the grass, climbing specially built logs, playfully fighting over a fallen fruit. They’re clumsy, sometimes comical. But they’re alive. And every time one lies in the shade, paws in the air like a tired child, it feels like a quiet declaration: this is enough. Visiting the sanctuary isn’t just a travel experience. It’s an invitation to look closely. To not look away from what’s been done—but also to recognize what can still be changed. Because behind every rescued bear is a story of suffering, but also one of hope. And sometimes, it takes just one person—one woman with a petition, one small act of courage—to move the world. Practical Information for Visitors Name of Sanctuary: Free the Bears – Luang Prabang Bear Rescue Centre Location: Near Luang Prabang, northern Laos, within a protected forest area How to Get There: By tuk-tuk or bicycle from central Luang Prabang (approx. 20–30 minutes) Organized tours are available through local travel agencies Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM) Entrance Fee: Foreign adults: ~20,000 LAK (approx. $1.50 USD) Children and locals: reduced or free entry Fees support animal care, staff, and conservation programs What to Expect: Guided walking trails through forested enclosures Observation platforms for safe viewing Educational signage (in English and Lao) No direct contact with animals (for their safety and yours) Best Time to Visit: Morning (8:00–10:30 AM) when bears are most active Cooler months (November–February) for comfortable walking What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent Water and comfortable walking shoes Camera (no flash, please) Rules & Etiquette: No feeding animals No loud noises or sudden movements Stay on marked paths Do not attempt to touch or interact with animals Support the Cause: Sponsor a bear through the Free the Bears website Donate supplies: check their wish list (food, medicine, enrichment items) Follow and share their work on social media Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

The post Saved Bears, Rediscovered Lives in Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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There is a particular kind of silence in bear sanctuaries in Laos. Not emptiness, but stillness filled with presence. It’s the breath of an animal stretching in the sun after years in a cage. The sound of paws touching free ground for the first time. The rustle of a tree chosen for a nap—not because it’s the only shelter, but because it feels good. Asian black bears—also known as “moon bears” for the pale crescent on their chest—are not loud creatures. But when you see them walk, climb, sniff the air with quiet curiosity, you understand: every movement is an act of freedom.

An Asian black bear, or moon bear, lies on a wooden platform under dappled light filtering through green leaves.

Everyone knows the best place for a bear is the forest. But for many of those now living in the sanctuary near Luang Prabang, the forest is a distant memory—or perhaps a place they’ve never known. They were taken from the wild by poachers, sold, imprisoned. Some destined for bile farms, kept in metal crates barely larger than their bodies, with tubes inserted into their gallbladders to extract fluid used in traditional medicine. Others were reduced to street performers, forced to dance with chains on their teeth and paws burned by fire. A life that was never truly living.

Thankfully, for some of them, that story has ended. Not by miracle, but by the quiet determination of a woman from Perth, Australia, who in 1993 watched a documentary and decided she couldn’t look away. Her name was Mary Hutton. The footage—bears in wire cages, eyes dim, bodies scarred—struck her like a wound. The next day, with a petition in hand, she stood outside a shopping center and asked people to sign for “Free the Bears.” From that simple, stubborn act, an organization was born.

A black bear stands in a shallow pool of water amidst dense green foliage

At first, it seemed impossible. But Mary never stopped. She raised funds, educated communities, and built sanctuaries. The first in Cambodia, then one in Vietnam, and in 2003, the Luang Prabang Bear Rescue Centre in Laos. When her son Simon, who shared her mission, died tragically in 2005 while building the Cambodian sanctuary, many would have given up. Mary didn’t. She said she would continue—for him. And she did.

Today, at eighty, she still leads the organization from her garage in Perth. And thanks to her and those who stood beside her, more than 950 bears have been rescued across Asia. These are not empty numbers—they are real stories. A bear learning to run. Another relearning how to feel wind in his fur. Some will never return to the wild, but they’ve relearned what it means to be a bear.

The author stands amongst several bear statues.

Laos, like many Southeast Asian countries, has seen wild bear populations collapse due to poaching, deforestation, and illegal wildlife trade. Bears are legally protected, and international trade in body parts is banned. Yet, demand for paws, claws, and especially bile persists. Bear bile has been used for centuries to treat liver and gallbladder conditions, but today, effective herbal and synthetic alternatives exist—cruelty-free and widely available. Still, in China, an estimated 10,000 bears remain in bile farms. In Laos and Vietnam, the numbers have dropped—fewer than 100 in Laos, under 220 in Vietnam—but every bear in a cage is one too many.

Free the Bears never pays for bears. It’s a principle: paying would fuel the market. Instead, they work with government authorities who confiscate illegally held animals and transfer them to sanctuaries. It’s slow work—built on patience, bureaucracy, sleepless nights. But also, quiet victories: a bear freed, a village educated, a traditional medicine practitioner convinced to switch to alternatives.

A black bear partially submerged in muddy water at bear sanctuary Laos

In 2017, the Luang Prabang sanctuary expanded into a multi-species refuge—now home to gibbons, deer, birds—but the bears remain its heart. You see them rolling in the grass, climbing specially built logs, playfully fighting over a fallen fruit. They’re clumsy, sometimes comical. But they’re alive. And every time one lies in the shade, paws in the air like a tired child, it feels like a quiet declaration: this is enough.

Visiting the sanctuary isn’t just a travel experience. It’s an invitation to look closely. To not look away from what’s been done—but also to recognize what can still be changed. Because behind every rescued bear is a story of suffering, but also one of hope. And sometimes, it takes just one person—one woman with a petition, one small act of courage—to move the world.

Practical Information for Visitors

  • Name of Sanctuary: Free the Bears – Luang Prabang Bear Rescue Centre
  • Location: Near Luang Prabang, northern Laos, within a protected forest area
  • How to Get There:
    • By tuk-tuk or bicycle from central Luang Prabang (approx. 20–30 minutes)
    • Organized tours are available through local travel agencies
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
  • Entrance Fee:
    • Foreign adults: ~20,000 LAK (approx. $1.50 USD)
    • Children and locals: reduced or free entry
    • Fees support animal care, staff, and conservation programs
  • What to Expect:
    • Guided walking trails through forested enclosures
    • Observation platforms for safe viewing
    • Educational signage (in English and Lao)
    • No direct contact with animals (for their safety and yours)
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • Morning (8:00–10:30 AM) when bears are most active
    • Cooler months (November–February) for comfortable walking
  • What to Bring:
    • Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
    • Water and comfortable walking shoes
    • Camera (no flash, please)
  • Rules & Etiquette:
    • No feeding animals
    • No loud noises or sudden movements
    • Stay on marked paths
    • Do not attempt to touch or interact with animals
  • Support the Cause:
    • Sponsor a bear through the Free the Bears website
    • Donate supplies: check their wish list (food, medicine, enrichment items)
    • Follow and share their work on social media

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

The post Saved Bears, Rediscovered Lives in Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Laos Tourism Boom: Southeast Asia’s Rising Star https://asianitinerary.com/laos-tourism-boom-southeast-asias-rising-star/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laos-tourism-boom-southeast-asias-rising-star Mon, 01 Sep 2025 21:37:43 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=68010

Laos has officially stepped into the spotlight as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing travel destinations, joining regional neighbors like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Singapore. With its breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and ongoing infrastructure improvements, the country is proving to be more than just an off-the-beaten-path escape — it is now a global tourism contender. Record-Breaking Growth According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Laos recorded a remarkable 25.3% increase in international visitors in 2024, ranking 13th worldwide for tourism growth. The country welcomed over 4.1 million travelers, nearly one million more than the previous year. Most tourists continue to arrive from Thailand, Vietnam, and China, drawn by cultural similarities, geographical proximity, and improved regional connectivity. By July 2024, Laos had already welcomed 2.3 million tourists, putting it on track to surpass its ambitious goal of 4.3 million visitors by 2025. Why Travelers Are Choosing Laos Laos offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, making it a standout in Southeast Asia. From the mystical Plain of Jars and the cascading waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau to the serene flow of the Nam Ou River, the country’s landscapes are among the most pristine in the region. Its cities, meanwhile, carry an aura of timeless charm. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with golden Buddhist temples and colonial architecture, while the capital Vientiane balances tradition with modernity. This duality has positioned Laos as a destination for travelers seeking both authenticity and comfort. Infrastructure and Accessibility Recent investments in airports, highways, and public transportation are making Laos more accessible than ever. Improved flight connections, upgraded road networks, and better hospitality services are helping the country cater to growing numbers of international visitors. This infrastructure boost is not only easing travel within Laos but also strengthening ties with its ASEAN neighbors, creating opportunities for multi-country itineraries across Southeast Asia. Sustainable and Diverse Tourism Laos’ government is prioritizing sustainable tourism as part of its long-term growth strategy. Eco-tourism, adventure activities, and community-based initiatives are being developed to diversify travel experiences while preserving cultural and environmental heritage. Adventure seekers can trek through lush national parks, explore remote caves, or kayak along the Mekong, while culturally inclined travelers can immerse themselves in traditional festivals, handicraft workshops, and Buddhist ceremonies. Tourism as an Economic Driver Tourism has become a pillar of Laos’ economy, generating opportunities for local businesses and communities. Artisans, farmers, and small entrepreneurs benefit directly from visitor spending, whether through handicrafts, farm-to-table dining, or eco-lodges. With a population of just over 7 million, Laos is proving that even small nations can achieve global recognition by focusing on authenticity and sustainable growth. Laos in the Global Tourism Context While established destinations like France — which drew over 102 million visitors in 2024 — remain at the top, emerging markets such as Laos are reshaping global travel dynamics. Alongside high-growth countries like South Korea, Japan, and Chile, Laos is carving out its place as a rising star for travelers eager to discover new horizons. Looking Ahead With its unspoiled landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and strategic tourism investments, Laos is positioning itself as a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. As the country continues to balance modernization with authenticity, its role in the region’s tourism boom is set to grow even further. For travelers, Laos offers a rare opportunity: to experience a destination still deeply connected to its roots while embracing a future of sustainable tourism. Watch Fantasia Asia VIDEOS on Laos HERE:

The post Laos Tourism Boom: Southeast Asia’s Rising Star appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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Laos has officially stepped into the spotlight as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing travel destinations, joining regional neighbors like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Singapore. With its breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted traditions, and ongoing infrastructure improvements, the country is proving to be more than just an off-the-beaten-path escape — it is now a global tourism contender.

Record-Breaking Growth

According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Laos recorded a remarkable 25.3% increase in international visitors in 2024, ranking 13th worldwide for tourism growth. The country welcomed over 4.1 million travelers, nearly one million more than the previous year.

Most tourists continue to arrive from Thailand, Vietnam, and China, drawn by cultural similarities, geographical proximity, and improved regional connectivity. By July 2024, Laos had already welcomed 2.3 million tourists, putting it on track to surpass its ambitious goal of 4.3 million visitors by 2025.

Why Travelers Are Choosing Laos

Laos offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth

Laos offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural depth, making it a standout in Southeast Asia. From the mystical Plain of Jars and the cascading waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau to the serene flow of the Nam Ou River, the country’s landscapes are among the most pristine in the region.

Its cities, meanwhile, carry an aura of timeless charm. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants visitors with golden Buddhist temples and colonial architecture, while the capital Vientiane balances tradition with modernity. This duality has positioned Laos as a destination for travelers seeking both authenticity and comfort.

Infrastructure and Accessibility

Recent investments in airports, highways, and public transportation are making Laos more accessible than ever. Improved flight connections, upgraded road networks, and better hospitality services are helping the country cater to growing numbers of international visitors.

This infrastructure boost is not only easing travel within Laos but also strengthening ties with its ASEAN neighbors, creating opportunities for multi-country itineraries across Southeast Asia.

Sustainable and Diverse Tourism

Laos’ government is prioritizing sustainable tourism as part of its long-term growth strategy. Eco-tourism, adventure activities, and community-based initiatives are being developed to diversify travel experiences while preserving cultural and environmental heritage.

Adventure seekers can trek through lush national parks, explore remote caves, or kayak along the Mekong, while culturally inclined travelers can immerse themselves in traditional festivals, handicraft workshops, and Buddhist ceremonies.

Tourism as an Economic Driver

Tourism has become a pillar of Laos’ economy, generating opportunities for local businesses and communities. Artisans, farmers, and small entrepreneurs benefit directly from visitor spending, whether through handicrafts, farm-to-table dining, or eco-lodges.

With a population of just over 7 million, Laos is proving that even small nations can achieve global recognition by focusing on authenticity and sustainable growth.

Laos in the Global Tourism Context

While established destinations like France — which drew over 102 million visitors in 2024 — remain at the top, emerging markets such as Laos are reshaping global travel dynamics. Alongside high-growth countries like South Korea, Japan, and Chile, Laos is carving out its place as a rising star for travelers eager to discover new horizons.

Looking Ahead

With its unspoiled landscapes, rich cultural tapestry, and strategic tourism investments, Laos is positioning itself as a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia. As the country continues to balance modernization with authenticity, its role in the region’s tourism boom is set to grow even further.

For travelers, Laos offers a rare opportunity: to experience a destination still deeply connected to its roots while embracing a future of sustainable tourism.

Watch Fantasia Asia VIDEOS on Laos HERE:

The post Laos Tourism Boom: Southeast Asia’s Rising Star appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Meliá Hotels International First Hotel In Laos https://asianitinerary.com/melia-hotels-international-first-hotel-in-laos/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=melia-hotels-international-first-hotel-in-laos Fri, 03 May 2024 13:05:59 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=61668

The onetime palace of a Lao prince is moving into the portfolio of hotels managed by the Spanish hotel group, Meliá Hotels International. The Grand Luang Prabang will be the first hotel in Laos to join Melia Hotels International’s growing presence in the region. The Luang Prabang property will undergo a 12-month rebranding process to become the first member of the Melia Collection in Southeast Asia. Meliá Collection hotels were launched in 2022 to bring together some of the group’s most distinctive and one-of-a-kind properties. As the one-time palace of a Lao prince, the Lao property has the kind of unique story that distinguishes a collection hotel. With its rich culture and architecture the destination of Luang Prabang has held UNESCO World Heritage status for two decades. “For the Meliá family, we are extremely happy to begin our journey in Laos with this extraordinary hotel,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “We expect destinations like Luang Prabang to become more popular with modern travelers who are seeking new and unique experiences, and I’m sure that this hotel, with its unmistakable sense of place, will enable guests to fully enjoy the destination.” Situated on lush riverside in Luang Prabang, The Grand Luang Prabang is a 75-key property spread out over eight buildings, comprising of a 1920-built palace and a collection of annexes. The property commands the high ground of a six-hectare bluff on a bend of the Mekong with sweeping views of mountains and river, and majestic sunsets. Once known as Xiengkeo Palace, the roots of the property reach deep into French colonial-style architecture, albeit with decidedly Laotian touches. Prince Petcharath, the aristocrat who once lived on the grounds, is well-known among Laotians and held a tenure as prime minister during World War II. Balconies from guest rooms overlook manicured gardens and lotus ponds, and the environs beyond. Interiors ooze charm through traditional wooden furnishings and timeless appointments. The property also features an expansive swimming pool in the gardens. Meliá plans to add Spanish hospitality to the mix, while ensuring the hotel retains its distinct character. “Luang Prabang is a hidden gem in Asia, steeped in so much history and culture with a myriad of ancient temples and monasteries,” said Ignacio Martin, Managing Director Asia Pacific at Meliá Hotels International. “We want to immerse guests in the story here through a hotel that is truly part of the beautiful essence of this destination.” Under Meliá’s umbrella the hotel will undergo a renovation and refurbishment over the next year, remaining operational throughout. Meliá Hotels International landed in Asia for the first time in the 1980s with the opening of Meliá Bali. Since then, the region has become strategically important for the group, where it currently has a portfolio of 50 properties (operating and in the pipeline) in Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, China and Laos. The first Lao property expands on a partnership with Thailand-based TCC Group that began with the opening of Meliá’s first hotel in Vietnam over two decades ago.

The post Meliá Hotels International First Hotel In Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]>

The onetime palace of a Lao prince is moving into the portfolio of hotels managed by the Spanish hotel group, Meliá Hotels International. The Grand Luang Prabang will be the first hotel in Laos to join Melia Hotels International’s growing presence in the region.

The Luang Prabang property will undergo a 12-month rebranding process to become the first member of the Melia Collection in Southeast Asia. Meliá Collection hotels were launched in 2022 to bring together some of the group’s most distinctive and one-of-a-kind properties. As the one-time palace of a Lao prince, the Lao property has the kind of unique story that distinguishes a collection hotel. With its rich culture and architecture the destination of Luang Prabang has held UNESCO World Heritage status for two decades.

Deluxe Room at The Grand Luang Prabang

“For the Meliá family, we are extremely happy to begin our journey in Laos with this extraordinary hotel,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “We expect destinations like Luang Prabang to become more popular with modern travelers who are seeking new and unique experiences, and I’m sure that this hotel, with its unmistakable sense of place, will enable guests to fully enjoy the destination.”

Situated on lush riverside in Luang Prabang, The Grand Luang Prabang is a 75-key property spread out over eight buildings, comprising of a 1920-built palace and a collection of annexes. The property commands the high ground of a six-hectare bluff on a bend of the Mekong with sweeping views of mountains and river, and majestic sunsets.

Once known as Xiengkeo Palace, the roots of the property reach deep into French colonial-style architecture, albeit with decidedly Laotian touches. Prince Petcharath, the aristocrat who once lived on the grounds, is well-known among Laotians and held a tenure as prime minister during World War II.

Le Bistrot

Balconies from guest rooms overlook manicured gardens and lotus ponds, and the environs beyond. Interiors ooze charm through traditional wooden furnishings and timeless appointments. The property also features an expansive swimming pool in the gardens. Meliá plans to add Spanish hospitality to the mix, while ensuring the hotel retains its distinct character.

“Luang Prabang is a hidden gem in Asia, steeped in so much history and culture with a myriad of ancient temples and monasteries,” said Ignacio Martin, Managing Director Asia Pacific at Meliá Hotels International. “We want to immerse guests in the story here through a hotel that is truly part of the beautiful essence of this destination.”

Under Meliá’s umbrella the hotel will undergo a renovation and refurbishment over the next year, remaining operational throughout.

Meliá Hotels International landed in Asia for the first time in the 1980s with the opening of Meliá Bali. Since then, the region has become strategically important for the group, where it currently has a portfolio of 50 properties (operating and in the pipeline) in Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, China and Laos.

The first Lao property expands on a partnership with Thailand-based TCC Group that began with the opening of Meliá’s first hotel in Vietnam over two decades ago.

The post Meliá Hotels International First Hotel In Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> A Majestic Encounter with Elephants https://asianitinerary.com/a-majestic-encounter-with-elephants/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-majestic-encounter-with-elephants Wed, 09 Aug 2023 04:42:02 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=56449

Visiting the MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK in Pakbeng is an awe-inspiring and truly unforgettable experience. Nestled amidst the lush beauty of Northern Laos, this sanctuary provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and intimately interact with these majestic creatures, the Asian elephants. From the moment you step onto the park grounds, you are greeted by a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The staff’s warm welcome and their evident dedication to the well-being of the elephants instantly set the tone for an extraordinary day ahead. One of the standout features of MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK is their commitment to ethical and responsible elephant tourism. Unlike many other attractions, the park refrains from offering activities like elephant rides or performances, ensuring the elephants are treated with utmost respect and care. Instead, visitors are encouraged to engage in more meaningful interactions that promote the elephants’ natural behaviours and their overall welfare. The guided walking tour through the lush forest is the highlight of the visit. Accompanied by knowledgeable and passionate guides, you will have the privilege of observing the elephants in their natural habitat. Witnessing these gentle giants roam freely, socialise, and partake in various enrichment activities is a truly heartwarming experience. Another commendable aspect of the park is its dedication to education. Throughout the tour, the guides provided fascinating insights into the elephants’ behaviours, their conservation status, and the park’s efforts to protect these magnificent creatures. Visitors leave the park not only with cherished memories but also with a deeper understanding of the importance of elephant conservation. The commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK. The park operates with a low ecological footprint, using eco-friendly practices and providing locally sourced, delicious meals for visitors. Additionally, their support for the local community and involvement in conservation initiatives further exemplify their holistic approach. In conclusion, a visit to MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK is a transformative experience that goes beyond mere tourism. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about the crucial role elephants play in our ecosystem, and contribute to their well-being. The dedication to ethical practices, the serene surroundings, and the opportunity to interact with these incredible creatures make this sanctuary a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and impactful wildlife encounter. If you’re looking for an ethical and immersive elephant encounter in Pakbeng, look no further than MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK. It’s an oasis of compassion, education, and natural beauty that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime. Check their website HERE Read about Pluto and Alis adventure in Pakbeng HERE COME ON TOUR WITH US Discover the magic of our latest trip! An experience that will take you to enchanting places, blending culture and adventures with our travel branch FANTASIA ASIA – click on the following programs to know more: https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-north-adventure-8-days-7-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-new-the-ancient-capital-7-days-6-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/enchanting-laos-9-days-8-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/luang-prabang-tour-4-days-3-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/laos-fantasy-12-days-11-nights/ Watch here for our VIDEO on Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shuI9Aa_-pQ&t=35s  

The post A Majestic Encounter with Elephants appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]>

Visiting the MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK in Pakbeng is an awe-inspiring and truly unforgettable experience. Nestled amidst the lush beauty of Northern Laos, this sanctuary provides a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature and intimately interact with these majestic creatures, the Asian elephants.

From the moment you step onto the park grounds, you are greeted by a serene and tranquil atmosphere. The staff’s warm welcome and their evident dedication to the well-being of the elephants instantly set the tone for an extraordinary day ahead.

One of the standout features of MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK is their commitment to ethical and responsible elephant tourism. Unlike many other attractions, the park refrains from offering activities like elephant rides or performances, ensuring the elephants are treated with utmost respect and care. Instead, visitors are encouraged to engage in more meaningful interactions that promote the elephants’ natural behaviours and their overall welfare.

The guided walking tour through the lush forest is the highlight of the visit. Accompanied by knowledgeable and passionate guides, you will have the privilege of observing the elephants in their natural habitat. Witnessing these gentle giants roam freely, socialise, and partake in various enrichment activities is a truly heartwarming experience.

Another commendable aspect of the park is its dedication to education. Throughout the tour, the guides provided fascinating insights into the elephants’ behaviours, their conservation status, and the park’s efforts to protect these magnificent creatures. Visitors leave the park not only with cherished memories but also with a deeper understanding of the importance of elephant conservation.

The commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK. The park operates with a low ecological footprint, using eco-friendly practices and providing locally sourced, delicious meals for visitors. Additionally, their support for the local community and involvement in conservation initiatives further exemplify their holistic approach.

In conclusion, a visit to MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK is a transformative experience that goes beyond mere tourism. It’s a chance to connect with nature, learn about the crucial role elephants play in our ecosystem, and contribute to their well-being. The dedication to ethical practices, the serene surroundings, and the opportunity to interact with these incredible creatures make this sanctuary a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and impactful wildlife encounter.

If you’re looking for an ethical and immersive elephant encounter in Pakbeng, look no further than MEKONG ELEPHANT PARK. It’s an oasis of compassion, education, and natural beauty that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Check their website HERE

Read about Pluto and Alis adventure in Pakbeng HERE

COME ON TOUR WITH US

Discover the magic of our latest trip! An experience that will take you to enchanting places, blending culture and adventures with our travel branch FANTASIA ASIA – click on the following programs to know more:

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-north-adventure-8-days-7-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-new-the-ancient-capital-7-days-6-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/enchanting-laos-9-days-8-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/luang-prabang-tour-4-days-3-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/laos-fantasy-12-days-11-nights/

Watch here for our VIDEO on Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shuI9Aa_-pQ&t=35s

 

The post A Majestic Encounter with Elephants appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Laos, an itinerary at the edge of time https://asianitinerary.com/laos-an-itinerary-at-the-edge-of-time/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laos-an-itinerary-at-the-edge-of-time Mon, 07 Aug 2023 10:55:38 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=56330

This is the account of a journey that Percorsi di Viaggio has recently made. Let me tell you that this has been a highly exciting and very photogenic journey, a journey mid-way between natural and ethnic, one that led us to visit an unknown number of local villages inhabited by tribes almost all originating from China. All this in a fascinating and varied setting made of hills of different aspect: some covered by luxuriant woods and inhabited by various species of wild animals including bears, deers and tigers; others stripped of vegetation due to the fires started by farmers to re-fertilize the fields, but not for this less suggestive. We visited Northern Laos in a journey that took us from the border with Thailand, near the province of Chiang Rai, up to Vientiane. Part of the journey was along what for years was considered the main communication route of this country, the Mekong River, which crosses Laos almost along its entire length, marking the border with Thailand for many kilometres, until it flows inside Cambodia. From there, it will continue its journey up to its mouth, in part along winding roads, sometimes dirt tracks and often roads full of holes, roads that climb and then descend on the sides of the country’s highest hills. Breathtaking landscapes, at times even dramatic routes whose end was almost impossible to imagine, with hairpin bends, some uphill and some downhill, constantly traveled by trucks that, trudging along, move goods to and from China, to and from Vietnam. Along these, we saw poor but dignified villages spring up from time to time, rich in their own history, culture and traditions. Villages where, accompanied by Phonsi, our skilled guide, we were allowed to visit houses, villages where water is a common good and everyone has to go and get it from the fountains that arise in one or more parts of the village. A life where inhabitants are forced to steal inches from the land for their crops which, sometimes, do not develop on terraces but vertically. Other ‘suspended people’ who nevertheless do not hesitate to welcome you with a sincere smile that fills your heart, but also makes you realise how privileged we are. It all started at dawn on that first day of travel when we crossed the border to embark on a traditional boat that would take us over the course of a day to our first stop: Pakbeng. A comfortable and spacious boat, a dozen traveling companions, a guide, Deng, also very helpful, and below us the Mekong, a vast, yellow, muddy liquid which flowed in our same direction, at times placid, at times more impetuous, at times agitated by the rapids. During the first stretch, the river marks the border between Laos and Thailand representing, if not really a land, a ‘nobody’s water’, which is really a water for everyone, where fishing boats move casually from one to the other side as if a border didn’t exist at all. Laos and Thailand are countries linked by a solid friendship, and military garrisons to protect the border along both banks of the river are not perceived as needed here. With my eyes I follow the route of our boat, which, based on emerging and non-emerging rocks and on the depth of the river, sails alternating one bank of the river and the other in a sort of ping pong match. It is as if, in spite of ourselves, on the one hand we did not want to distance ourselves from where we came from, and on the other hand Laos wants to appear unreachable. And perhaps, metaphorically speaking, it is a little unreachable. It is with a touch of melancholy that I think about my friend Corrado, who loved crossing borders on foot to stay, for a few seconds, with one foot already in one country and one foot still in the other.  I realise that I am experiencing a similar situation, perhaps less solid and a little more liquid. He also loved the Mekong, Corrado, to the point of mentioning it in the title of his first novel: ‘Father Mekong’. With its approximately 4880 kilometres, the Mekong is the seventh longest river in the world and the fourth longest in Asia. It has its source in China and its mouth in the South China Sea, the large and grandiose Mekong Delta in Vietnam, and its waters touch Burma, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia. In Laos, the Mekong is particularly important and cannot be considered only as a waterway, as it represents the lifeblood of the country’s economy and of the people who live along its banks. It provides a source of food, water and transportation, it represents an important source of hydroelectric energy, as well as an ecosystem that supports a diverse range of plants and animal species. It is therefore obvious that many cities and villages depend on this river. This is the case, for example, of the village of Karg Lare, our only stop along the way, which stands on the left bank of the Mekong and it is inhabited by members of the Khamu ethnic group. It is a relatively recent settlement created by government-sponsored migration from mountainous areas, where inhabitants were more exposed to disease, where the level of hygiene was very poor and, for logistic reasons, access to education was minimal. In their original settlement, the inhabitants dedicated themselves to hunting and smoking opium; in the new village, as well as having greater access to water resources, they have spaces used as schools and can enjoy the support of shipping companies on the Mekong which in turn bring visitors. The village can be reached from the river bank by climbing an improbable stairway. It is located high enough not to be reached by the floods during rainy season, and it is made up of wooden or bamboo houses built on stilts. While crossing it, you meet many children, some of whom take care of others even...

The post Laos, an itinerary at the edge of time appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]>

This is the account of a journey that Percorsi di Viaggio has recently made. Let me tell you that this has been a highly exciting and very photogenic journey, a journey mid-way between natural and ethnic, one that led us to visit an unknown number of local villages inhabited by tribes almost all originating from China. All this in a fascinating and varied setting made of hills of different aspect: some covered by luxuriant woods and inhabited by various species of wild animals including bears, deers and tigers; others stripped of vegetation due to the fires started by farmers to re-fertilize the fields, but not for this less suggestive.

The authors on board ready to leave – photo by Issara Adisorn

We visited Northern Laos in a journey that took us from the border with Thailand, near the province of Chiang Rai, up to Vientiane. Part of the journey was along what for years was considered the main communication route of this country, the Mekong River, which crosses Laos almost along its entire length, marking the border with Thailand for many kilometres, until it flows inside Cambodia. From there, it will continue its journey up to its mouth, in part along winding roads, sometimes dirt tracks and often roads full of holes, roads that climb and then descend on the sides of the country’s highest hills.

Breathtaking landscapes, at times even dramatic routes whose end was almost impossible to imagine, with hairpin bends, some uphill and some downhill, constantly traveled by trucks that, trudging along, move goods to and from China, to and from Vietnam. Along these, we saw poor but dignified villages spring up from time to time, rich in their own history, culture and traditions. Villages where, accompanied by Phonsi, our skilled guide, we were allowed to visit houses, villages where water is a common good and everyone has to go and get it from the fountains that arise in one or more parts of the village.

Local fishing boats – photo by Guglielmo Zanchi

A life where inhabitants are forced to steal inches from the land for their crops which, sometimes, do not develop on terraces but vertically. Other ‘suspended people’ who nevertheless do not hesitate to welcome you with a sincere smile that fills your heart, but also makes you realise how privileged we are.

It all started at dawn on that first day of travel when we crossed the border to embark on a traditional boat that would take us over the course of a day to our first stop: Pakbeng.

A comfortable and spacious boat, a dozen traveling companions, a guide, Deng, also very helpful, and below us the Mekong, a vast, yellow, muddy liquid which flowed in our same direction, at times placid, at times more impetuous, at times agitated by the rapids.

A herd of water buffaloes in the wild – photo by Guglielmo Zanchi

During the first stretch, the river marks the border between Laos and Thailand representing, if not really a land, a ‘nobody’s water’, which is really a water for everyone, where fishing boats move casually from one to the other side as if a border didn’t exist at all. Laos and Thailand are countries linked by a solid friendship, and military garrisons to protect the border along both banks of the river are not perceived as needed here.

With my eyes I follow the route of our boat, which, based on emerging and non-emerging rocks and on the depth of the river, sails alternating one bank of the river and the other in a sort of ping pong match. It is as if, in spite of ourselves, on the one hand we did not want to distance ourselves from where we came from, and on the other hand Laos wants to appear unreachable. And perhaps, metaphorically speaking, it is a little unreachable.

Children of the Khamu tribe – Photo by Guglielmo Zanchi

It is with a touch of melancholy that I think about my friend Corrado, who loved crossing borders on foot to stay, for a few seconds, with one foot already in one country and one foot still in the other.  I realise that I am experiencing a similar situation, perhaps less solid and a little more liquid. He also loved the Mekong, Corrado, to the point of mentioning it in the title of his first novel: ‘Father Mekong’.

With its approximately 4880 kilometres, the Mekong is the seventh longest river in the world and the fourth longest in Asia. It has its source in China and its mouth in the South China Sea, the large and grandiose Mekong Delta in Vietnam, and its waters touch Burma, Laos, Thailand and Cambodia.

The view of the river from my room – photo by Guglielmo Zanchi

In Laos, the Mekong is particularly important and cannot be considered only as a waterway, as it represents the lifeblood of the country’s economy and of the people who live along its banks. It provides a source of food, water and transportation, it represents an important source of hydroelectric energy, as well as an ecosystem that supports a diverse range of plants and animal species. It is therefore obvious that many cities and villages depend on this river.

This is the case, for example, of the village of Karg Lare, our only stop along the way, which stands on the left bank of the Mekong and it is inhabited by members of the Khamu ethnic group. It is a relatively recent settlement created by government-sponsored migration from mountainous areas, where inhabitants were more exposed to disease, where the level of hygiene was very poor and, for logistic reasons, access to education was minimal. In their original settlement, the inhabitants dedicated themselves to hunting and smoking opium; in the new village, as well as having greater access to water resources, they have spaces used as schools and can enjoy the support of shipping companies on the Mekong which in turn bring visitors.

Portrait of a girl from the Khamu ethnic group – photo by Guglielmo Zanchi

The village can be reached from the river bank by climbing an improbable stairway. It is located high enough not to be reached by the floods during rainy season, and it is made up of wooden or bamboo houses built on stilts. While crossing it, you meet many children, some of whom take care of others even smaller than them; there are poultry, piglets and adult inhabitants, some of whom, now accustomed to foreigners, socialise with them thanks also to the help of the guide, while others look at you with such a curious gaze that you almost wonder if you are the attraction for them and not the other way around. Then the faces light up with that disarming smile that restores the right roles and brings you back to normal.

We reach Pakbeng after about 8 hours on a cruise interspersed with a visit to the village and with lunch on board, a very simple buffet of Lao food.

The rest of the time passes between rock formations which break up the monotony of the river landscape, herds of water buffaloes in the wild who drink along the banks of the river, fishermen who cast their nets from the shore or from above boats so small that I fail to understand how they manage to keep themselves in balance. Time also flows among the inevitable children who dive into the river, fully dressed or completely naked, but still carefree; kids who do not  let a single boat pass without shouting their greetings.  And to complete the scenery of this humanity that lives along the river, the gold seekers appear completely unexpected: men and women who lean into the water with a sieve in their hands, seeking their fortune in the form of precious yellow stones.

Emerging rocks that break up the monotony of the landscape – photo by Guglielmo Zanchi

And finally we arrive in sight of Pakbeng. Defining it a village is as simplistic as it is excessive to define it a town. But beyond the size, this place that has seen its growth precisely as a function of the cruises on the Mekong gives you a sense of peace from the moment of disembarkation that will be accentuated with the silences before the evening, and those of the night. Silences that not even the peaceful flow of the Mekong seems to want to disturb, much less a dawn where the sun, appearing in the back side of our room (which is windowless), seems to want to enter our lives discreetly. Tiptoeing.

Only the trumpeting of the elephants, if you’re lucky, could interrupt the quietness, bringing you back to a reality which, although not the usual one, wants to remind you that the rest of the world is around you.

A glimpse of life on the Mekong – by Guglielmo Zanchi

In front of the resort, on the other bank of the great river, there is an elephant sanctuary dedicated to the care of these pachyderms which used to be ‘a million’; their population is today reduced to about 800 throughout the country. The Mekong Elephant Park is home to just under a dozen of them, including a recently born cub, and has set itself the goal of raising public awareness of the situation of elephants in Laos, whose survival is seriously threatened with extinction. The other main purpose is to provide support to recovered animals, protecting them from the abuses of the logging and tourism industry, and returning them to a life as elephants, letting them live in peace as such.

With a little luck, at dawn, the elephants come down to the river bank to quench their thirst. The best way to start our day is to admire them from the comfort of our terrace, without causing them the slightest disturbance, before getting back in the car for another stretch of our journey in Laos.

COME ON TOUR WITH US

Discover the magic of our latest trip! An experience that will take you to enchanting places, blending culture and adventures with our travel branch FANTASIA ASIA – click on the following programs to know more:

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-north-adventure-8-days-7-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-new-the-ancient-capital-7-days-6-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/enchanting-laos-9-days-8-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/luang-prabang-tour-4-days-3-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/laos-fantasy-12-days-11-nights/

Watch here for our VIDEO on Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shuI9Aa_-pQ&t=35s

The post Laos, an itinerary at the edge of time appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> A Laos Beta version soon to be a 2.0 https://asianitinerary.com/a-laos-beta-version-soon-to-be-a-2-0/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-laos-beta-version-soon-to-be-a-2-0 Sun, 26 Mar 2023 20:50:15 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=52674

“Laos doesn’t seem to have changed at all since I last visited. (…) Life flows according to the usual rhythms, the rhythms of a peasant life punctuated by nature and made up of days that are almost all the same: at dawn, small groups of people lined up along the road reach the plantations; in the local markets, made up of simple goods and lots of fruit, there is slow activity, people meet, talk, buy, sell. Outside some shack used as a shop, the young and the old spend their days idly by watching the traffic go by and chatting with each other while children, like all children in the world, play and run, still partly carefree, waiting for their time to help in the fields.” I wrote this in 2013 when I was a few kilometres away from Bo Ten – a then forgotten town on the border with China – and I was about to cross the north of the country to reach China. Today, I’m preparing to make a very similar journey again, but I have serious doubts about being able to repeat those words and rediscover that almost enchanted country that had bewitched me every time I returned to visit it. Read on to find out why. For now it is enough for you to know that the characters and performers are the same as 10 years ago: China in version 100.0, in the role of a local feudal lord who seeks to derive the greatest possible advantages from his vassals; Laos which, to continue the terminology of computers, I would still define in the “beta” version, wearing the clothes of a vassal; and then there’s me, the storyteller. Perhaps speaking of an end is a bit exaggerated in absolute terms; maybe it is more appropriate to speak of a decline, and I have the clear feeling that my next trip to Laos, which should take place in the coming April, could bear witness to the beginning of the decline of a nation that has always had little but that has always tried to keep its identity intact with extreme dignity. Laos has a population of about 7 and a half million inhabitants, distributed among forty-seven different ethnic minorities, with a majority formed by the Lao ethnic group. Each of these groups has its own language and culture. Laos is home to some of the most pristine regions in the world, made up of lush forests, towering mountains and, above all, by the meandering Mekong River, which divides into an internal estuary that gives life to an infinite number of islands and islets in the southern part of the country and which, above all, has represented over the years the most important commercial communication route in the country. To the traveler who visits it, Laos offers paths between nature, spirituality and silence. A place more to breathe than to admire. Many times I have asked myself: “What is it that I find beautiful in Laos?” Perhaps it’s the ancient temples of Luang Prabang with the morning alms of the monks, or the lively life on the ‘long Mekong’? Or perhaps it’s the mysterious jars lying on the Xiangkhoang plateau, which alongside the legends associated with the jars themselves, has also seen history pass along its paths; a story made up of thousands of tons of bombs dropped during what the Americans themselves defined a ‘dirty war’? Or maybe it’s the waterfalls, the sunsets with the last rays of the sun caressing the rice fields, the waters of the Mekong that are placid one moment, rushing the next? Perhaps it’s all these and other things put together. And maybe none of them, because in fact Laos doesn’t have its Angkor, its Walls, its Taj Mahal; but you don’t miss them, and you come back for its people, for its simplicity, for that atmosphere that Asia exudes from all pores. Planning a trip to Laos is an exciting prospect and, with so many interesting places to visit, it can be said that travel begins in preparation. In this specific case I will follow a fairly classic route with the four of the most popular destinations in Laos – Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Plain of Jars and Luang Prabang – to which I will add Bo Ten again. In short, like a murderer, I too will go back to the places of the crime to see if I will find the same Laos as many years ago. Will I find it again? Frankly I hope so, but I’m afraid not, and I’ll explain why right away: on December 3rd 2021, a high-speed railway was inaugurated, one that connects Vientiane with Bo Ten in a few hours, to then connect with a Chinese railway that will reach Kunming. This ultra-modern project which has taken the name of ‘New Silk Road’ and which over time intends to extend to connect with the Kuala Lumpur–Singapore railway line with the aim of opening a new commercial route between China and the major ports of Southeast Asia, will surely have begun to produce an epochal change in a Laos that seems to be passing, at least in some areas of the country, from nothing to so much all too rapidly. And it is precisely this Laos in the making that I want to go visit. It intrigues me to personally see how such a particular country is absorbing this path from a peasant economy, as it has been said several times, to a much more complex economic phase. As in the American Far West, the railway will bring progress, work, perhaps a decrease in the level of poverty, economic and social growth. It has already led, for example, to the clearing of unexploded ordnance left over from indiscriminate bombing during the Vietnam War, which was located along the route and which was removed during the execution of the works. But there will also be a price to pay. In America it was paid for...

The post A Laos Beta version soon to be a 2.0 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]>

“Laos doesn’t seem to have changed at all since I last visited. (…) Life flows according to the usual rhythms, the rhythms of a peasant life punctuated by nature and made up of days that are almost all the same: at dawn, small groups of people lined up along the road reach the plantations; in the local markets, made up of simple goods and lots of fruit, there is slow activity, people meet, talk, buy, sell. Outside some shack used as a shop, the young and the old spend their days idly by watching the traffic go by and chatting with each other while children, like all children in the world, play and run, still partly carefree, waiting for their time to help in the fields.”

A local village in northern Laos – Image by Guglielmo

I wrote this in 2013 when I was a few kilometres away from Bo Ten – a then forgotten town on the border with China – and I was about to cross the north of the country to reach China. Today, I’m preparing to make a very similar journey again, but I have serious doubts about being able to repeat those words and rediscover that almost enchanted country that had bewitched me every time I returned to visit it.

Read on to find out why. For now it is enough for you to know that the characters and performers are the same as 10 years ago: China in version 100.0, in the role of a local feudal lord who seeks to derive the greatest possible advantages from his vassals; Laos which, to continue the terminology of computers, I would still define in the “beta” version, wearing the clothes of a vassal; and then there’s me, the storyteller.

Perhaps speaking of an end is a bit exaggerated in absolute terms; maybe it is more appropriate to speak of a decline, and I have the clear feeling that my next trip to Laos, which should take place in the coming April, could bear witness to the beginning of the decline of a nation that has always had little but that has always tried to keep its identity intact with extreme dignity.

Si Phan Don rice fields – Image by Guglielmo

Laos has a population of about 7 and a half million inhabitants, distributed among forty-seven different ethnic minorities, with a majority formed by the Lao ethnic group. Each of these groups has its own language and culture. Laos is home to some of the most pristine regions in the world, made up of lush forests, towering mountains and, above all, by the meandering Mekong River, which divides into an internal estuary that gives life to an infinite number of islands and islets in the southern part of the country and which, above all, has represented over the years the most important commercial communication route in the country.

To the traveler who visits it, Laos offers paths between nature, spirituality and silence. A place more to breathe than to admire. Many times I have asked myself: “What is it that I find beautiful in Laos?” Perhaps it’s the ancient temples of Luang Prabang with the morning alms of the monks, or the lively life on the ‘long Mekong’? Or perhaps it’s the mysterious jars lying on the Xiangkhoang plateau, which alongside the legends associated with the jars themselves, has also seen history pass along its paths; a story made up of thousands of tons of bombs dropped during what the Americans themselves defined a ‘dirty war’? Or maybe it’s the waterfalls, the sunsets with the last rays of the sun caressing the rice fields, the waters of the Mekong that are placid one moment, rushing the next?

Scene of daily life in Laos – Image by Guglielmo

Perhaps it’s all these and other things put together. And maybe none of them, because in fact Laos doesn’t have its Angkor, its Walls, its Taj Mahal; but you don’t miss them, and you come back for its people, for its simplicity, for that atmosphere that Asia exudes from all pores.

Planning a trip to Laos is an exciting prospect and, with so many interesting places to visit, it can be said that travel begins in preparation. In this specific case I will follow a fairly classic route with the four of the most popular destinations in Laos – Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Plain of Jars and Luang Prabang – to which I will add Bo Ten again.

In short, like a murderer, I too will go back to the places of the crime to see if I will find the same Laos as many years ago. Will I find it again? Frankly I hope so, but I’m afraid not, and I’ll explain why right away: on December 3rd 2021, a high-speed railway was inaugurated, one that connects Vientiane with Bo Ten in a few hours, to then connect with a Chinese railway that will reach Kunming.

This ultra-modern project which has taken the name of ‘New Silk Road’ and which over time intends to extend to connect with the Kuala Lumpur–Singapore railway line with the aim of opening a new commercial route between China and the major ports of Southeast Asia, will surely have begun to produce an epochal change in a Laos that seems to be passing, at least in some areas of the country, from nothing to so much all too rapidly.

And it is precisely this Laos in the making that I want to go visit. It intrigues me to personally see how such a particular country is absorbing this path from a peasant economy, as it has been said several times, to a much more complex economic phase.

Simple life in Laos

As in the American Far West, the railway will bring progress, work, perhaps a decrease in the level of poverty, economic and social growth. It has already led, for example, to the clearing of unexploded ordnance left over from indiscriminate bombing during the Vietnam War, which was located along the route and which was removed during the execution of the works.

But there will also be a price to pay.

In America it was paid for with the disappearance of the bison and with the inability, or more probably with the unwillingness, to accompany the indigenous populations towards a different form of life adapted to the new times. In Laos, where 75 tunnels and a number of viaducts divided into 167 bridges had to be built, the environmental impact was evidently harmful and resulted in the loss of 318,000 hectares of natural forest. Not to mention that even in Laos the population will need to be supported in this rapid change in their daily life.

And with the last rays of the sun, the Mekong in Si Phan Don is colored – Image by Guglielmo

While it should be acknowledged that the new rail link has the potential to stimulate the economy of landlocked Laos, ultimately resulting in the country being part of a pan-Asian rail link which can only bring benefits, there are also concerns that this situation will increase the country’s indebtedness to China.

Laos will increasingly rely on international aid and financial assistance from the Beijing government, and Vientiane will be drawn further politically into the orbit of its unwieldy neighbour.

In short, a Laos to discover, to experience and to understand in the few days that I will have time to visit it. I am quite sure that once again, the sides of the rails will show me its most beautiful face. Maybe even the surprised faces of the people when they see that iron monster that could change their lives darting along the edge of their fields. A turning point, in short, which in the end we hope will be for the better.

COME ON TOUR WITH US

Discover the magic of our latest trip! An experience that will take you to enchanting places, blending culture and adventures with our travel branch FANTASIA ASIA – click on the following programs to know more:

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-north-adventure-8-days-7-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-new-the-ancient-capital-7-days-6-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/enchanting-laos-9-days-8-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/luang-prabang-tour-4-days-3-nights/

https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/laos-fantasy-12-days-11-nights/

Watch here for our VIDEO on Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shuI9Aa_-pQ&t=35s

The post A Laos Beta version soon to be a 2.0 appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> New experiences at Amantaka, Amanpuri and Amansara https://asianitinerary.com/new-experiences-at-amantaka-amanpuri-and-amansara/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-experiences-at-amantaka-amanpuri-and-amansara Sun, 19 Mar 2023 11:57:41 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=52264

Aman has introduced a series of latest experiences across Amanpuri, Amansara and Amantaka. The activities in the Southeast Asia properties are carefully curated for the discerning traveller to elevate guests’ stay. Amantaka, Laos Lao Royal Court Cuisine Experience Indulge in the rich culinary traditions of Laos with Amantaka’s Lao Royal Court Cuisine experience. Under the guidance of expert local chefs, discover the flavours and techniques of traditional Lao cuisine, renowned for its unique blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours. Savour a one-of-a-kind dining experience featuring seasonal ingredients and authentic recipes, passed down through generations of the Lao Royal Court. From the beautiful presentation of each dish to the intricate flavours and aromas, the experience offers a full immersion in local culture. Amansara, Cambodia Museum Tour with Private Curator Embark on a journey to the ancient city of Angkor to explore the magnificent Angkor National Museum on a private tour with the museum curator, Ven Sophorn. Learn about the Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom, discover the origins of Khmer art, culture, and architecture, and view the eight art galleries that showcase the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the ancient empire. Dr. Sophorn-an expert in archaeology and ancient arts with eight years of experience at the Angkor World Heritage Site –guides guests with his extraordinary knowledge for a wholly enriching experience. Amanpuri, Thailand Tennis Pro Experience Amanpuri invites guests to enhance their tennis skills this season with the arrival of seasonal tennis pro, Philippe Dupuy. Guests can focus on enhancing their cardio, technique, and strategy or simply have an informal game with Philippe in a private class. Originally from France, Philippe, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the court, holding certifications in both tennis and fitness training. With over a decade of professional private coaching in cities across Europe, he has had the opportunity to play with top ATP 300 players and compete against some of the finest professionals around the world. Sunset Painting Masterclass Foster creativity at Amanpuri’s Sunset Painting Masterclass. Taking place on the resort’s iconic staircase, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this experience provides the perfect opportunity to become immersed in nature and develop new skills. With expert guidance from a local professional painting teacher, guests are invited to learn the basics of brush usage, colour mixing, and new techniques. Perfect for seasoned painters and beginners alike, at the end of the class, guests can take their unique masterpiece home as a moment of their stay. Andaman Sunset Cruise Experience Embark on a breathtaking journey with Amanpuri’s Andaman Sunset Cruise Experience. Soak in the beauty of Phuket‘s western coastline, cruising along its shores and taking in the scenic views of the Andaman coast‘s pristine white beaches. Explore the crystal-clear waters of Koh Wa Island and snorkel to discover its stunning coral reefs and marine life. As the day comes to a close, sit back, relax and enjoy canapes and Champagne as the sun sets over the horizon of the Andaman Sea. Crystal Healing (From March) Experience the power of crystal healing at Amanpuri’s Holistic Wellness Centre. This ancient practice has been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years and involves the use of crystals to bring mind, body, spirit, and environment back into harmony. During this 30-to-40-minute session, crystals will be placed on specific points on the body, with a focus on the Chakra energy centres. The main influence for healing is the Chakra Philosophy which emphasises the connection between physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health.

The post New experiences at Amantaka, Amanpuri and Amansara appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]>

Aman has introduced a series of latest experiences across Amanpuri, Amansara and Amantaka. The activities in the Southeast Asia properties are carefully curated for the discerning traveller to elevate guests’ stay.

Amantaka, Laos

Lao Royal Court Cuisine Experience

Indulge in the rich culinary traditions of Laos with Amantaka’s Lao Royal Court Cuisine experience. Under the guidance of expert local chefs, discover the flavours and techniques of traditional Lao cuisine, renowned for its unique blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours. Savour a one-of-a-kind dining experience featuring seasonal ingredients and authentic recipes, passed down through generations of the Lao Royal Court. From the beautiful presentation of each dish to the intricate flavours and aromas, the experience offers a full immersion in local culture.

Amansara, Cambodia

Museum Tour with Private Curator

Embark on a journey to the ancient city of Angkor to explore the magnificent Angkor National Museum on a private tour with the museum curator, Ven Sophorn. Learn about the Golden Era of the Khmer Kingdom, discover the origins of Khmer art, culture, and architecture, and view the eight art galleries that showcase the customs, traditions, and beliefs of the ancient empire. Dr. Sophorn-an expert in archaeology and ancient arts with eight years of experience at the Angkor World Heritage Site –guides guests with his extraordinary knowledge for a wholly enriching experience.

Amanpuri, Thailand

Tennis Pro Experience

Amanpuri invites guests to enhance their tennis skills this season with the arrival of seasonal tennis pro, Philippe Dupuy. Guests can focus on enhancing their cardio, technique, and strategy or simply have an informal game with Philippe in a private class. Originally from France, Philippe, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the court, holding certifications in both tennis and fitness training. With over a decade of professional private coaching in cities across Europe, he has had the opportunity to play with top ATP 300 players and compete against some of the finest professionals around the world.

Sunset Painting Masterclass

Foster creativity at Amanpuri’s Sunset Painting Masterclass. Taking place on the resort’s iconic staircase, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this experience provides the perfect opportunity to become immersed in nature and develop new skills. With expert guidance from a local professional painting teacher, guests are invited to learn the basics of brush usage, colour mixing, and new techniques. Perfect for seasoned painters and beginners alike, at the end of the class, guests can take their unique masterpiece home as a moment of their stay.

Andaman Sunset Cruise Experience

Embark on a breathtaking journey with Amanpuri’s Andaman Sunset Cruise Experience. Soak in the beauty of Phuket‘s western coastline, cruising along its shores and taking in the scenic views of the Andaman coast‘s pristine white beaches. Explore the crystal-clear waters of Koh Wa Island and snorkel to discover its stunning coral reefs and marine life. As the day comes to a close, sit back, relax and enjoy canapes and Champagne as the sun sets over the horizon of the Andaman Sea.

Crystal Healing (From March)

Experience the power of crystal healing at Amanpuri’s Holistic Wellness Centre. This ancient practice has been used for therapeutic purposes for thousands of years and involves the use of crystals to bring mind, body, spirit, and environment back into harmony. During this 30-to-40-minute session, crystals will be placed on specific points on the body, with a focus on the Chakra energy centres. The main influence for healing is the Chakra Philosophy which emphasises the connection between physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health.

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]]> Laos is One of National Geographic’s Top Five Spots https://asianitinerary.com/laos-is-one-of-national-geographics-top-five-spots/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laos-is-one-of-national-geographics-top-five-spots Sat, 21 Jan 2023 18:38:50 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=50772

For US travel-focused media National Geographic, a new element has been added to its listings dedicated to identifying interesting trips and top destinations to plan in 2023. While the “adventure” and “nature” categories will rightly be of interest to backpackers, a new genre, under the heading “community,” now offers suggestions for where to go when looking for a sustainable getaway that embraces the principles of slow travel and inclusiveness. Take Laos, featured in National Geographic’s top five. While the country’s borders reopened last May, the country didn’t wait for foreign travellers to return to boost its tourism, instead focusing on fostering domestic travel. In December 2021, a train named after an ancient kingdom in the area, Lane Xang, was inaugurated, taking travellers some 400 kilometres from the city of Boten to the capital Vientiane. To visit the ancient capital Luang Prabang, it took at least five hours by road, whereas with the train, Laotians now need only two hours. Subtitled, Board a new train that makes the country’s wonders more accessible, an article highlights how the many wonders of the country are much more accessible now thanks to the high-speed electric trains of the Laos–China Railway. It says, “The Southeast Asian country known for its emerald-green vistas of the Upper Mekong River got a boost in domestic travel with the December 2021 inauguration of a Chinese-financed and -constructed bullet train christened the Lane Xang, an ancient Laotian name meaning Kingdom of a Million Elephants. The train’s route features a 260-mile segment within Laos, starting at the border town of Boten and running through 75 tunnels and across 167 bridges, before terminating in the capital, Vientiane. “The train’s promise? To expand tourism among the Lao themselves, who can now more easily explore their country’s multifaceted heritage, including the old imperial capital, Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.” Slow travel is a more mindful way of traveling that enables one to immerse themselves in the culture of a place, its food, its music, and its people and make memories instead of just ticking off items from one’s bucket list. Laos is the first destination that is highlighted for its “community-led conservation efforts; groundbreaking work in ecotourism, sustainability, and inclusive travel; and meaningful ways for travellers to give back”. Like last time, Laos is the only Asian country to feature in this esteemed list that encourages people to travel in a way that is kinder to the environment while also seeking out moments of escape, self-reflection and relaxation.

The post Laos is One of National Geographic’s Top Five Spots appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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For US travel-focused media National Geographic, a new element has been added to its listings dedicated to identifying interesting trips and top destinations to plan in 2023. While the “adventure” and “nature” categories will rightly be of interest to backpackers, a new genre, under the heading “community,” now offers suggestions for where to go when looking for a sustainable getaway that embraces the principles of slow travel and inclusiveness.

The River Mekong at Pak Beng

Take Laos, featured in National Geographic’s top five. While the country’s borders reopened last May, the country didn’t wait for foreign travellers to return to boost its tourism, instead focusing on fostering domestic travel. In December 2021, a train named after an ancient kingdom in the area, Lane Xang, was inaugurated, taking travellers some 400 kilometres from the city of Boten to the capital Vientiane. To visit the ancient capital Luang Prabang, it took at least five hours by road, whereas with the train, Laotians now need only two hours.

Subtitled, Board a new train that makes the country’s wonders more accessible, an article highlights how the many wonders of the country are much more accessible now thanks to the high-speed electric trains of the Laos–China Railway.

It says, “The Southeast Asian country known for its emerald-green vistas of the Upper Mekong River got a boost in domestic travel with the December 2021 inauguration of a Chinese-financed and -constructed bullet train christened the Lane Xang, an ancient Laotian name meaning Kingdom of a Million Elephants. The train’s route features a 260-mile segment within Laos, starting at the border town of Boten and running through 75 tunnels and across 167 bridges, before terminating in the capital, Vientiane.

“The train’s promise? To expand tourism among the Lao themselves, who can now more easily explore their country’s multifaceted heritage, including the old imperial capital, Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site.”

A temple in the old imperial capital of Luang Prabang

Slow travel is a more mindful way of traveling that enables one to immerse themselves in the culture of a place, its food, its music, and its people and make memories instead of just ticking off items from one’s bucket list. Laos is the first destination that is highlighted for its “community-led conservation efforts; groundbreaking work in ecotourism, sustainability, and inclusive travel; and meaningful ways for travellers to give back”.

Like last time, Laos is the only Asian country to feature in this esteemed list that encourages people to travel in a way that is kinder to the environment while also seeking out moments of escape, self-reflection and relaxation.

The post Laos is One of National Geographic’s Top Five Spots appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> WELCOME THE LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH AMAN https://asianitinerary.com/welcome-the-lunar-new-year-with-aman/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=welcome-the-lunar-new-year-with-aman Wed, 18 Jan 2023 21:09:47 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=50617

A time of new beginnings, auspicious feasting and, most importantly, being together, Aman’s destinations across the globe celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year with meaningful ceremony and fanfare. As we bid farewell to the Year of the Tiger, Aman’s sanctuaries – from the heart of Central Java to France’s snowcapped peaks – anticipate all the peace and good fortune promised by the upcoming Year of the Rabbit, the fourth animal in the zodiac considered the luckiest of all. AMANKILA, BALI Resting on a lush hillside beneath sacred Mount Agung, Amankila’s frangipani-lined walkways wind through the treetops, connecting stilted suites that offer unrivalled views of the Lombok Strait, while a three-tier infinity pool cascades at the property’s heart and the Beach Club leads to a private black-sand beach. Capturing the elegance and serenity symbolised by the rabbit in Eastern cultures, celebrations begin on the eve of the new moon, the 21 January with guests invited to try their hand at drawing a rabbit on traditional lontar, a type of palm-leaf manuscript, at Amankila. Visit Bali’s first Chinese temple and later experience a Kang Hi Wei dance performance and a family-style banquet beneath the stars. Enjoy a three-night stay on Bali’s breathtaking coastline filled with celebratory surprises and making memories with loved ones for a fulfilling start to the year ahead. Stays include roundtrip transfers, daily breakfast for two, in room refreshments, a delicious Lunar New Year dinner for two at The Main Restaurant and either a complimentary 60-minute spa treatment for two or an East Bali Tour, cycling or trekking. AMANDARI, BALI Presided over by a sacred stone tiger, Amandari’s designed is inspired by a traditional Balinese village on the verdant lip of the Ayung River Gorge. Close to the artistic centre of Ubud, this place of peace invites both reflection and the exploration of Bali’s cultural heart this Lunar New Year. To welcome the Year of the Rabbit, Amandari has designed an itinerary that includes daily wellness sessions, a series of cultural performances and distinctive culinary experiences including Chinese Afternoon Tea. On 22 January, guests are invited to receive a Balinese blessing at Amandari Temple, before enjoying a live Barong dance performance by the Youth Organisation of Kedewatan Village and a multi-course Peranakan Dinner. AMANJIWO, JAVA Overlooking the ancient Buddhist temple of Borobudur and bordered by the mystical Menoreh Hills, Amanjiwo breathes with tranquillity and reverence of its surroundings, making it the perfect retreat for welcoming the Lunar New Year. With anthropologist Patrick Vanhoebrouck in residence this year, guests will be treated to lectures and guided through the ancient temples around the region. The Rotunda Bar presents itself as an idyllic spot to admire the sun rising and setting through the peaks of the Menoreh Hills, where local drinks awaken the tastebuds and craft-making classes enrich the mind and soul. On 21 January, Lunar New Year’s Eve celebrations will twinkle with traditional Javanese dances and performances, while the awe-inspiring form of Candi Borobudur on the horizon is toasted for good fortune for the year ahead. AMANOI, VIETNAM Claiming a spectacular stretch of Vietnam’s coastline within the verdant embrace of Nui Chua National Park and Unesco Biosphere Reserve, Amanoi is a natural paradise overlooking Vinh Hy Bay. From its remote location, the resort’s clifftop restaurants, lakeside Aman Spa and private golden sand beach offer limitless opportunities for cultural immersion and serene moments of reflection ahead of the Lunar New Year. To celebrate Vietnam’s most important holiday, the team at Amanoi have designed an extensive itinerary that includes daily wellness sessions, traditional performances, cultural children’s activities, and local dining experiences. Begin New Year’s Day with a Buddhist blessing led by local monks at Vinh Hy Pagoda, before enjoying a seafood dinner menu in the Main Restaurant and traditional lion and dragon dance performances throughout the evening. Meanwhile, active hikes in Nui Chua National Park, private Cham sunset blessings and tennis tournaments set the tone for a healthy, prosperous year ahead. AMANTAKA, LAOS Amantaka rests at the foot of sacred Mount Phousi amid the golden spired wats and quaint lanes of this charming Unesco World Heritage Site. A stroll from the banks of the mighty Mekong, the resort is set on an historic garden estate with a shimmering pool and serene Aman Spa. Guests are invited to usher in the Year of the Rabbit in Luang Prabang, where the ancient capital’s slower pace encourages moments of reflection and an altogether restorative start to the New Year. Alongside a programme of specially curated celebrations – including a traditional Lao cooking class on our organic farm, a private sunset cruise on the majestic Mekong and excursions to the most sacred temples – daily dips into Amantaka‘s shimmering pool and rejuvenating wellness treatments in Aman Spa ensure the Lunar New Year is welcomed with peace and joy. AMANSARA, CAMBODIA Set in spiritual Siem Reap, Amansara‘s manicured gardens, a tranquil spa, curvilinear pool and canopy of mature trees add to tangible tranquillity that inspired its name – ‘heavenly peace’. Khmer healing traditions and a programme of yoga and meditation certainly set the tone for peaceful and serene beginnings. Amansara invites guests to welcome the Lunar New Year in the former residence of Cambodia’s king with a specially curated calendar of festive feasting, spiritual blessings, performances and cultural experiences to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Events range from a Lotus High Tea with traditional Khmer music to a Jasmine Blessing ceremony followed by a candlelight dinner under the stars.

The post WELCOME THE LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH AMAN appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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A time of new beginnings, auspicious feasting and, most importantly, being together, Aman’s destinations across the globe celebrate the arrival of the Lunar New Year with meaningful ceremony and fanfare. As we bid farewell to the Year of the Tiger, Aman’s sanctuaries – from the heart of Central Java to France’s snowcapped peaks – anticipate all the peace and good fortune promised by the upcoming Year of the Rabbit, the fourth animal in the zodiac considered the luckiest of all.

AMANKILA, BALI

Amankila, Bali – View of Resort

Resting on a lush hillside beneath sacred Mount Agung, Amankila’s frangipani-lined walkways wind through the treetops, connecting stilted suites that offer unrivalled views of the Lombok Strait, while a three-tier infinity pool cascades at the property’s heart and the Beach Club leads to a private black-sand beach.

Capturing the elegance and serenity symbolised by the rabbit in Eastern cultures, celebrations begin on the eve of the new moon, the 21 January with guests invited to try their hand at drawing a rabbit on traditional lontar, a type of palm-leaf manuscript, at Amankila. Visit Bali’s first Chinese temple and later experience a Kang Hi Wei dance performance and a family-style banquet beneath the stars.

Enjoy a three-night stay on Bali’s breathtaking coastline filled with celebratory surprises and making memories with loved ones for a fulfilling start to the year ahead. Stays include roundtrip transfers, daily breakfast for two, in room refreshments, a delicious Lunar New Year dinner for two at The Main Restaurant and either a complimentary 60-minute spa treatment for two or an East Bali Tour, cycling or trekking.

AMANDARI, BALI

Amandari, Indonesia – Experience, Private Dining at sunset

Presided over by a sacred stone tiger, Amandari’s designed is inspired by a traditional Balinese village on the verdant lip of the Ayung River Gorge. Close to the artistic centre of Ubud, this place of peace invites both reflection and the exploration of Bali’s cultural heart this Lunar New Year.

To welcome the Year of the Rabbit, Amandari has designed an itinerary that includes daily wellness sessions, a series of cultural performances and distinctive culinary experiences including Chinese Afternoon Tea. On 22 January, guests are invited to receive a Balinese blessing at Amandari Temple, before enjoying a live Barong dance performance by the Youth Organisation of Kedewatan Village and a multi-course Peranakan Dinner.

AMANJIWO, JAVA

Amanjiwo, Indonesia – Prambanan Temple

Overlooking the ancient Buddhist temple of Borobudur and bordered by the mystical Menoreh Hills, Amanjiwo breathes with tranquillity and reverence of its surroundings, making it the perfect retreat for welcoming the Lunar New Year.

With anthropologist Patrick Vanhoebrouck in residence this year, guests will be treated to lectures and guided through the ancient temples around the region. The Rotunda Bar presents itself as an idyllic spot to admire the sun rising and setting through the peaks of the Menoreh Hills, where local drinks awaken the tastebuds and craft-making classes enrich the mind and soul. On 21 January, Lunar New Year’s Eve celebrations will twinkle with traditional Javanese dances and performances, while the awe-inspiring form of Candi Borobudur on the horizon is toasted for good fortune for the year ahead.

AMANOI, VIETNAM

Amanoi, Vietnam – Aerial, Central Pavilion at sunrise

Claiming a spectacular stretch of Vietnam’s coastline within the verdant embrace of Nui Chua National Park and Unesco Biosphere Reserve, Amanoi is a natural paradise overlooking Vinh Hy Bay. From its remote location, the resort’s clifftop restaurants, lakeside Aman Spa and private golden sand beach offer limitless opportunities for cultural immersion and serene moments of reflection ahead of the Lunar New Year.

To celebrate Vietnam’s most important holiday, the team at Amanoi have designed an extensive itinerary that includes daily wellness sessions, traditional performances, cultural children’s activities, and local dining experiences. Begin New Year’s Day with a Buddhist blessing led by local monks at Vinh Hy Pagoda, before enjoying a seafood dinner menu in the Main Restaurant and traditional lion and dragon dance performances throughout the evening. Meanwhile, active hikes in Nui Chua National Park, private Cham sunset blessings and tennis tournaments set the tone for a healthy, prosperous year ahead.

AMANTAKA, LAOS

Amantaka, Laos – Resort, Main Swimming Pool, night time

Amantaka rests at the foot of sacred Mount Phousi amid the golden spired wats and quaint lanes of this charming Unesco World Heritage Site. A stroll from the banks of the mighty Mekong, the resort is set on an historic garden estate with a shimmering pool and serene Aman Spa.

Guests are invited to usher in the Year of the Rabbit in Luang Prabang, where the ancient capital’s slower pace encourages moments of reflection and an altogether restorative start to the New Year. Alongside a programme of specially curated celebrations – including a traditional Lao cooking class on our organic farm, a private sunset cruise on the majestic Mekong and excursions to the most sacred temples – daily dips into Amantaka‘s shimmering pool and rejuvenating wellness treatments in Aman Spa ensure the Lunar New Year is welcomed with peace and joy.

AMANSARA, CAMBODIA

Amansara, Cambodia – F&B, Khmer Village House, Twilight dinner candles setup

Set in spiritual Siem Reap, Amansara‘s manicured gardens, a tranquil spa, curvilinear pool and canopy of mature trees add to tangible tranquillity that inspired its name – ‘heavenly peace’. Khmer healing traditions and a programme of yoga and meditation certainly set the tone for peaceful and serene beginnings.

Amansara invites guests to welcome the Lunar New Year in the former residence of Cambodia’s king with a specially curated calendar of festive feasting, spiritual blessings, performances and cultural experiences to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Events range from a Lotus High Tea with traditional Khmer music to a Jasmine Blessing ceremony followed by a candlelight dinner under the stars.

The post WELCOME THE LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH AMAN appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> 14 countries added in Laos Green Zone Plan https://asianitinerary.com/14-countries-added-in-laos-green-zone-plan/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=14-countries-added-in-laos-green-zone-plan Tue, 11 Jan 2022 21:18:03 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=36222

Fourteen more countries are added to the list of nationalities allowed to enter Laos under the Travel Green Zone Plan. The additional countries include: Brunei, Indonesia, Philippines Norway, Switzerland, Finland, Israel, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, New Zealand, Poland, Denmark, Belgium. Travellers from these countries are allowed to travel to Laos under the reopening scheme under two zones, namely Green Travel Zones and Green Travel Trails. Following the country’s announcement of their plans to re-open for fully vaccinated travellers starting 1st of January 2022. Here are the conditions set by Lao government which will be implemented in three phases following the reopening scheme under two zones, namely Green Travel Zones and Green Travel Trails. Phase 1 01 January to 30 March 2022 Phase 2 01 April to 30 June 2022 Phase 3 01 July 2022 onwards Green Travel Zone Vientiane Capital, Luang Prabang Provinceand Vang Vieng District in Vientiane Province. Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, Savannakhet, and Champasack TBA Green Travel Trails Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, and Champasack. Houay Xay District in Bokeo Province, Luang Namtha Province, Sekong Province, and Salavanh Province TBA Entry Requirements Travellers are required to have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 no less than 14 days prior to arrival. Negative RT-PCR test taken within the last 72 hours Health insurance policy with coverage no less than USD 50,000 Travellers are required to download and register via the LaoKYC and the LaoStaySafe mobile applications prior to arriving in the country, as well as uploading their relevant vaccination certification and Covid-19 test results. Upon arrival travellers are required to be tested for Covid-19 and placed in a 24-hour quarantine in their hotel while waiting for the results. Initial list of countries allowed to travel to the country during the first phase includes: China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, France, United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, United States, Canada, and Australia. International Points of Entry: During the initial phase, travellers may enter Laos by air via Wattay International Airport and by land across the First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in Vientiane Capital. Phase 2 will include Luang Prabang International Airport, Boten-Bohan border with China in Luang Namtha Province, the Third Friendship Bridge in Thakhek, the Second Friendship Bridge in Savannakhet, the Chongmek border in Pakse, the Lao Bao border with Vietnam in Savannakhet Province, and Nam Phao border (Luk Xao) with Vietnam in Bolikhamxay Province.

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Fourteen more countries are added to the list of nationalities allowed to enter Laos under the Travel Green Zone Plan. The additional countries include: Brunei, Indonesia, Philippines Norway, Switzerland, Finland, Israel, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, New Zealand, Poland, Denmark, Belgium.

Travellers from these countries are allowed to travel to Laos under the reopening scheme under two zones, namely Green Travel Zones and Green Travel Trails.

Following the country’s announcement of their plans to re-open for fully vaccinated travellers starting 1st of January 2022. Here are the conditions set by Lao government which will be implemented in three phases following the reopening scheme under two zones, namely Green Travel Zones and Green Travel Trails.

Phase 1

01 January to 30 March 2022

 Phase 2

01 April to 30 June 2022

 Phase 3

01 July 2022 onwards
Green Travel Zone Vientiane Capital, Luang Prabang Provinceand Vang Vieng District in Vientiane Province. Vientiane Capital, Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang, Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, Savannakhet, and Champasack TBA
Green Travel Trails Oudomxay, Xayaboury, Xieng Khouang, Khammouane, and Champasack. Houay Xay District in Bokeo Province, Luang Namtha Province, Sekong Province, and Salavanh Province TBA

Entry Requirements

  • Travellers are required to have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19 no less than 14 days prior to arrival.
  • Negative RT-PCR test taken within the last 72 hours
  • Health insurance policy with coverage no less than USD 50,000
  • Travellers are required to download and register via the LaoKYC and the LaoStaySafe mobile applications prior to arriving in the country, as well as uploading their relevant vaccination certification and Covid-19 test results.
  • Upon arrival travellers are required to be tested for Covid-19 and placed in a 24-hour quarantine in their hotel while waiting for the results.

Initial list of countries allowed to travel to the country during the first phase includes:

International Points of Entry:

  • During the initial phase, travellers may enter Laos by air via Wattay International Airport and by land across the First Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in Vientiane Capital.
  • Phase 2 will include Luang Prabang International Airport, Boten-Bohan border with China in Luang Namtha Province, the Third Friendship Bridge in Thakhek, the Second Friendship Bridge in Savannakhet, the Chongmek border in Pakse, the Lao Bao border with Vietnam in Savannakhet Province, and Nam Phao border (Luk Xao) with Vietnam in Bolikhamxay Province.

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]]> Great Escape at Kiridara https://asianitinerary.com/great-escape-at-kiridara/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=great-escape-at-kiridara Fri, 04 Oct 2019 13:08:43 +0000 https://asianitinerary.com/?p=31955

As part of Next Story Group’s ‘Great Escape’ promotion, the Group’s hotels, which include Next, Sage, Country Comfort and Chifley in Australia and Kiridara in Laos are offering guests complimentary breakfast, room upgrade and a late check-out. Furthermore, children under 12 stay and eat at no additional costs. Kiridara located in Luang Prabang, Laos, is a contemporary boutique hotel that leverages on being well-known as a UNESCO world heritage site, is also best known for its ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries which are located in close proximities.  Apart from it being a hillside sanctuary for travellers seeking tranquility, guests will wake up to the finest panoramic views of Mount Phou Si, a popular spot to see the sunset over Luang Prabang. And for a more luxurious setting, a selection of villas is nestled on the banks of Nahm Khan river.  With just minutes away from Luang Prabang city centre and the international airport, Kiridara is surrounded by native teak forests and boasts a soothing ambience delivered by the famous Laotian hospitality. In the heart of Kiridara, guests will cruise through the resort and walk the hallways which exudes a fine mix between western and traditional Laotian architecture amongst its interior designs.  Sage Hotels in Melbourne, Wollongong, Adelaide and West Perth will delight young guests with signature Sage tepees in the rooms. Sage Hotel Wollongong has a new Activity Room packed with games just for the little ones, while Sage Hotel West Perth offers a free bicycle service for the whole family. Located at the gateway to the Yarra Valley, Sage Hotel Melbourne Ringwood offers modern rooms and encourages guests to experience all things local. Enjoy the hotel’s specialty cocktails during Happy Hour, which runs daily from 3 to 6pm. The hotel’s Partake Restaurant champions local produce and a special kids’ menu keeps everyone satisfied over the school holiday period. Book Your Next Great Escape from now to 6 October 2019 for stays until 31 March 2020. Bookings can be made directly on www.nexthotels.com 

The post Great Escape at Kiridara appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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As part of Next Story Group’s ‘Great Escape’ promotion, the Group’s hotels, which include Next, Sage, Country Comfort and Chifley in Australia and Kiridara in Laos are offering guests complimentary breakfast, room upgrade and a late check-out. Furthermore, children under 12 stay and eat at no additional costs.

Kiridara lush exterior

Kiridara located in Luang Prabang, Laos, is a contemporary boutique hotel that leverages on being well-known as a UNESCO world heritage site, is also best known for its ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries which are located in close proximities. 

Apart from it being a hillside sanctuary for travellers seeking tranquility, guests will wake up to the finest panoramic views of Mount Phou Si, a popular spot to see the sunset over Luang Prabang. And for a more luxurious setting, a selection of villas is nestled on the banks of Nahm Khan river. 

With just minutes away from Luang Prabang city centre and the international airport, Kiridara is surrounded by native teak forests and boasts a soothing ambience delivered by the famous Laotian hospitality. In the heart of Kiridara, guests will cruise through the resort and walk the hallways which exudes a fine mix between western and traditional Laotian architecture amongst its interior designs. 

Sage hotels style

Sage Hotels in Melbourne, Wollongong, Adelaide and West Perth will delight young guests with signature Sage tepees in the rooms. Sage Hotel Wollongong has a new Activity Room packed with games just for the little ones, while Sage Hotel West Perth offers a free bicycle service for the whole family.

Located at the gateway to the Yarra Valley, Sage Hotel Melbourne Ringwood offers modern rooms and encourages guests to experience all things local. Enjoy the hotel’s specialty cocktails during Happy Hour, which runs daily from 3 to 6pm. The hotel’s Partake Restaurant champions local produce and a special kids’ menu keeps everyone satisfied over the school holiday period.

Book Your Next Great Escape from now to 6 October 2019 for stays until 31 March 2020. Bookings can be made directly on www.nexthotels.com 

The post Great Escape at Kiridara appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

]]> Laos alms giving ceremony https://asianitinerary.com/laos-alms-giving-ceremony/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=laos-alms-giving-ceremony Tue, 02 Jan 2018 17:55:04 +0000 http://asianitinerary.com/?p=29648

Sai Bat (Laos alms giving ceremony) is a longstanding tradition in Laos Buddhist culture. In observing it, the devoted offer food to monks throughout the Luang Prabang every morning. This is sustenance for the monks, so great care is taken in preparation – and visitors wishing to take part should follow guidelines to ensure that they make appropriate offerings. Each morning, starting at around 5.30am, saffron-robed monks and novices emerge onto the streets with their alms bowls (‘bat’). Awaiting them are Lao people who have already taken the time to prepare sticky rice and other foods; they will place a portion in the bowl of each monk who passes by. The ceremony is undertaken in complete silence. The bureau of tourism and OFF ROAD LAOS ADVENTURES have worked at a brochure dedicated to inform people about the right way to behave while attending to this ceremony. We would like to draw your attention on this religious custom which is sacred to the people of Luang Prabang and has to be kept respected. How to respect the Alms Giving Procession?  Observe the ritual in silence and contribute an offering only if it is meaning for you and can do so respectfully. If you do not wish to make an offering, please keep an appropriate distance and take care not get in the way of the monk procession or  those making offerings: 1) For offerings, buy sticky rice at the local market earlier that morning and the vendors who prepare to sell the rice at points along the monks’ route 2) Do not stand too close to the monks when taking photographs; also, camera flashes are very disturbing for both monks and the lay people 3) Dress appropriately: shoulders, chests and legs should be covered 4) Do not make physical contact with the monks and try to stay at least 5 meters away from monks if you are observing the ceremony 5) Remember that large buses are forbidden within the Luang Prabang Unesco World Heritage site and are extremely disturbing in this context 6) Never follow the procession on a bus, as this will put you above the monks, which in Laos is disrespectful 7) Take part in the alms giving ceremony by protecting its dignity and its beautiful. We hope you enjoy Laos alms giving ceremony! COME ON TOUR WITH US Discover the magic of our latest trip! An experience that will take you to enchanting places, blending culture and adventures with our travel branch FANTASIA ASIA – click on the following programs to know more: https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-north-adventure-8-days-7-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/the-new-the-ancient-capital-7-days-6-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/enchanting-laos-9-days-8-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/luang-prabang-tour-4-days-3-nights/ https://www.fantasiaasia.com/tour/laos-fantasy-12-days-11-nights/ Watch here for our VIDEO on Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shuI9Aa_-pQ&t=35s

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Luang Prabang alms giving ceremony

Sai Bat (Laos alms giving ceremony) is a longstanding tradition in Laos Buddhist culture. In observing it, the devoted offer food to monks throughout the Luang Prabang every morning. This is sustenance for the monks, so great care is taken in preparation – and visitors wishing to take part should follow guidelines to ensure that they make appropriate offerings.

Each morning, starting at around 5.30am, saffron-robed monks and novices emerge onto the streets with their alms bowls (‘bat’). Awaiting them are Lao people who have already taken the time to prepare sticky rice and other foods; they will place a portion in the bowl of each monk who passes by. The ceremony is undertaken in complete silence.

Monks on a Luang Prabang road

The bureau of tourism and OFF ROAD LAOS ADVENTURES have worked at a brochure dedicated to inform people about the right way to behave while attending to this ceremony. We would like to draw your attention on this religious custom which is sacred to the people of Luang Prabang and has to be kept respected.

How to respect the Alms Giving Procession? 

Observe the ritual in silence and contribute an offering only if it is meaning for you and can do so respectfully. If you do not wish to make an offering, please keep an appropriate distance and take care not get in the way of the monk procession or  those making offerings:

Luang Prabang alms giving ceremony

1) For offerings, buy sticky rice at the local market earlier that morning and the vendors who prepare to sell the rice at points along the monks’ route

2) Do not stand too close to the monks when taking photographs; also, camera flashes are very disturbing for both monks and the lay people

3) Dress appropriately: shoulders, chests and legs should be covered

4) Do not make physical contact with the monks and try to stay at least 5 meters away from monks if you are observing the ceremony

Laos alms giving ceremony

5) Remember that large buses are forbidden within the Luang Prabang Unesco World Heritage site and are extremely disturbing in this context

6) Never follow the procession on a bus, as this will put you above the monks, which in Laos is disrespectful

7) Take part in the alms giving ceremony by protecting its dignity and its beautiful.

We hope you enjoy Laos alms giving ceremony!

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Watch here for our VIDEO on Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shuI9Aa_-pQ&t=35s

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]]> Donations for a IT school in Laos https://asianitinerary.com/donations-school-laos/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=donations-school-laos Mon, 01 Jan 2018 17:33:46 +0000 http://asianitinerary.com/?p=29635

For a decade now, thanks to the tourism agency Off Road Laos Adventures we have been organizing regular donations based on the needs of Laos villages inhabitants (scholar supplies, prescription glasses, clothes, etc…). These actions are really useful; however, we regret that they don’t provide a long term support. To transform our short-term actions into a sustainable support, we took the decision to create a complete humanitarian project: building an IT school. It will give the opportunity to children, isolated in the Laos mountains, to learn how to use a computer which is now a must-known to get a job in cities and therefore help financially their families still in the villages. This project is divided in several steps, which will be held depending on the donations that we get. Thank you for supporting us, and keep on making your donations for the building of this school in a Hmong village in 2018. TO MAKE A DONATION, CHECK OUR WORK, CLICK HERE Laos is a developing country with still some remote areas where locals can face difficulties to get basic resources, and a limited access to education. In order to help them, Off Road Laos Adventures & Trekking Laos have decided a few years ago to get involved, and is since running more and more charity work and donations thanks to associations and benevolent travelers. To build on that progress, we now have bigger projects for 2017 to construct a school in a remote local village and more houses for the villagers and to welcome our future travelers to share more time with locals. If you like this project, please enjoy our last video on our survey in Northern Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT_R0Q3FVCY Enfants du Laos Meaning Children of Laos, Enfants du Laos aims to develop access to education for ethnic groups of the country. Our goal is to enable children to have a better future by their own. These villages with lack of resources and school furniture need our help. That’s the reason why we develop school infrastructures with western courses. Our long term targets are to provide a sustainable support with a family  autonomy to contribute to their children education and to ensure them a serene professional future. https://www.enfantsdulaos.org 

The post Donations for a IT school in Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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For a decade now, thanks to the tourism agency Off Road Laos Adventures we have been organizing regular donations based on the needs of Laos villages inhabitants (scholar supplies, prescription glasses, clothes, etc…). These actions are really useful; however, we regret that they don’t provide a long term support.

School in Laos

To transform our short-term actions into a sustainable support, we took the decision to create a complete humanitarian project: building an IT school. It will give the opportunity to children, isolated in the Laos mountains, to learn how to use a computer which is now a must-known to get a job in cities and therefore help financially their families still in the villages.

This project is divided in several steps, which will be held depending on the donations that we get. Thank you for supporting us, and keep on making your donations for the building of this school in a Hmong village in 2018.

TO MAKE A DONATION, CHECK OUR WORK, CLICK HERE

Laos is a developing country with still some remote areas where locals can face difficulties to get basic resources, and a limited access to education. In order to help them, Off Road Laos Adventures & Trekking Laos have decided a few years ago to get involved, and is since running more and more charity work and donations thanks to associations and benevolent travelers.

To build on that progress, we now have bigger projects for 2017 to construct a school in a remote local village and more houses for the villagers and to welcome our future travelers to share more time with locals. If you like this project, please enjoy our last video on our survey in Northern Laos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT_R0Q3FVCY

Enfants du Laos

Children of Laos

Meaning Children of Laos, Enfants du Laos aims to develop access to education for ethnic groups of the country. Our goal is to enable children to have a better future by their own. These villages with lack of resources and school furniture need our help. That’s the reason why we develop school infrastructures with western courses. Our long term targets are to provide a sustainable support with a family  autonomy to contribute to their children education and to ensure them a serene professional future.

https://www.enfantsdulaos.org 

The post Donations for a IT school in Laos appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

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