LAOS HIGHLIGHTS

Welcome arrival from Vientiane airport and transfer to the hotel (without guide) to relax and refresh. (-) ARRIVAL Overnight in LUANG PRABANG

Start at 8:30am Explore the capital and the largest city of Laos and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere unlike the typical hustling and bustling cities of Southeast Asia. This historic old french colonial quarter beguiles glittering temples and statues, sleepy tuk tuk drivers, wandering Buddhist monks and boulevards lined with frangipanis. Easily explored, by foot, bicycle or a tuk tuk ride, we will visit the major sights of the capital starting with Wat Sisaket, famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of Buddha images followed by a visit to the Royal Temple of Wat Prakeo, the Temple of Emerald Buddha. The tour continues with a visit to Patuxai Victory Gate, an imposing arch (reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris) built as a monument to Laos’ resilience and independence. We then head on to see the iconic Golden That Luang Stupa, deemed as the most important national monument in Laos and a sacred symbol of Buddhist religion. Transfer to the airport for flight departure to Luang Prabang. Airport transfer in Luang Prabang without guide (B,) CITY TOUR Overnight in LUANG PRABANG

Start at 8:30am Discover the ancient town of Luang Prabang considered by many travelers as being the heart of Laotian culture. Encircled by mountains, sitting at the sacred confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan River, this charming little town can lay claim to its UNESCO-protected title for its gilded Wats, Saffron-clad monks and exquisite French-Indochinese villas. Starting our day with a visit to the magnificent Wat Xieng Thong Temple, “The Temple of the Golden City” considered the finest in all of Laos.

A short walk across the temple is the stunning Mekong river peninsula where we embark on a scenic boat ride and enjoy Luang Prabang’s scenery as we sail to the sacred pilgrimage of Tam Ting Cave (cave of thousand Buddhas). Before heading back to the city, we will cruise to the village of Ban Xang Hai, famous for distilling rice whiskeys (Lou Lao) and Ban Xang Khong where Saa paper are handcrafted from the barks of Mulberry trees. We then head along to visit Wat Mai “The New Monestary”, with its intricate finely detailed black and red lacquer decoration and gold leaf, it is extensively adorned by many visitors. Walking along the city main street, we will visit the National Museum once home to the Laotian Royal Family, it is famous as Luang Prabang’s main boulevard. Get the heart-rate going with a small hike up to the Phou Si Mountain for a breathtaking view of the entire city. (B,) MEKONG CRUISE Overnight in LUANG PRABANG

Wake up before dawn to observe a long standing sacred Lao tradition and Buddhist ritual “Tak Bat” (Almsgiving), where monks dressed in saffron-coloured robes line up to receive food offerings from devout Buddhists along the street. While it is possible to observe this special tradition, tourist are expected to be respectful and be mindful that it must be observed in silence and peace. Travel by car to reach our main highlight of the day, the multi-tiered turquoise-colored Kuang Si Waterfall, deemed one of the most beautiful waterfalls in South-east Asia. Here you can also visit the Bears Rescue Centre to see Asiatic bears rescued from illegal poaching and trading. Get to see the fascinating world of Lao textiles come alive with a visit to Ock Pop Tok Weaving Centre. Offering free guided tours where you can meet the expert village weavers for a truly unforgettable experience. (B,) WATERFALLS Overnight in LUANG PRABANG

Free leisure before transfer from your hotel to the airport for departure. (without guide) (B,) DEPARTURE