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Laos
Laos, affectionately known as the `Land of a Million Elephants', has recently opened up to visitors after a long and turbulent history. Providing visitors with an unforgettable glimpse in to traditional South East Asia, the country is largely undeveloped retaining a deep spiritual culture, spectacular scenery and ancient sights that rarely exist in today's progressive world. The UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang is not to be missed. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, it offers gleaming temples and crumbling French architecture surrounded majestically by soaring mountains.
Getting around in Laos
· Air travel: Access into Laos is becoming increasingly easier, with the introduction of new airports and more frequent services from major hubs such as Bangkok and Saigon. The two main airports that service Laos' major cities are in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. · Cross-border touring: Laos shares borders with many other countries including Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. And for a more picturesque introduction to Laos, visitors can travel on the Mekong River from Thailand's Chiang Rai province to Luang Prabang city (this tour is offered on page 91).
CHINA BURMA VIETNAM
Vientiane
THAILAND
Luang Prabang Revealed
4 Days Luang Prabang to Luang Prabang, Independent Tour.
Departures: Daily Day 1: Arrive Luang Prabang On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, begin your exploration of Luang Prabang with some of its most beautiful temples, Wat That, Wat Visun and Wat Aham. This afternoon, take part in a fun Lao cookery class. Learn about traditional Lao ingredients, choose your own dishes and then feast on your creations. (D) Standard: Sala Prabang Superior: Maison Souvannaphoum Day 2: Royal Palace & Pak Ou Caves Begin your day with a visit to the former Royal Palace, now a fascinating museum and home to some wonderful antiques. Afterwards board a boat on the Mekong River to visit the Pak Ou Cave shrines, home to over a thousand Buddha images and one of the most sacred sites for Laotians. During your free time this afternoon explore Luang Prabang and its temples further. Finish this memorable day with a sunset view of the city and the mighty Mekong River from Mount Phou Si. (B)
Day 3: Kuang Si Falls & Hilltribes Rise early to see robed Buddhist monks collecting alms at dawn. In the early morning mist of Luang Prabang, this is sure to be an evocative sight. Today you will also visit the Kuang Si falls where it is possible to swim in one of the lower pools. En route back to Luang Prabang, visit an ethnic Hmong hilltribe village and learn about their culture and history. This afternoon, enjoy some free time in Luang Prabang where you can shop in one of the town's lovely boutiques or the lively night market. Alternatively, you can simply relax in a street café and watch the world go by at Luang Prabang's uniquely slow pace. (B) Day 4: Depart Luang Prabang Morning trip to Ban Xang Kong where villagers practice traditional textile weaving and make mulberry paper. Finally, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Tour Prices
Prices per person, in £'s from
Twin 314 296 314
Luang Prabang
LAOS
Luang Prabang Revealed
Standard Superior Twin 384 332 407 Single 633 457 680 Single 509 473 509
Prices Include
· 3 nights accommodation including breakfast · Sightseeing & English speaking guide as detailed
01Jan08-30Apr08 01May08-30Sep08 01Oct08-31Dec08
90
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