Fafa’s Travel Guide: Luang Prabang

First off, apologies for missing last week’s newsletter—it was my birthday week and also the pre-launch of my travel consultancy, Farkala. For those unfamiliar, Farkala is my passion project aimed at inspiring exploration of the world’s best-kept secrets. The name comes from Sanskrit: arka means “sun” and kala means “explore,” capturing the essence of discovering the world with me as your guide. You can check out the website here—I’d love to hear your feedback!
Now, back to the main story. For New Year’s, after Hong Kong, I suggested to my mum that we explore another city in Southeast Asia before heading back to Jakarta. Initially, I was eager to visit Myanmar, the only country in the Indochina region we haven’t explored. However, due to the current political instability, we decided against it and chose the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, Laos instead.
Getting to Luang Prabang wasn’t the easiest, as flights are mostly only available from nearby cities. We had to transit in Bangkok before continuing from Hong Kong. As we approached this former capital of Laos, the view from above revealed lush greenery and surrounding hills, offering a nostalgic Indochine vibe. The city itself felt incredibly tranquil—a true retreat.

History of Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang feels like stepping into a storybook city where history isn’t just preserved—it’s lived. Once the royal capital of Laos until 1975, it’s a place steeped in cultural significance, positioned between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Its origins go back to the Kingdom of Lan Xang, or the “Land of a Million Elephants,” laying the foundation for the traditions and artistry that make this city so special. The temples here aren’t just monuments, They’re echoes of devotion from generations past, their intricate details and golden spires quietly narrating centuries of spirituality.
What makes Luang Prabang unforgettable is how seamlessly it blends its past with the present. The streets are a mix of faded French colonial villas and traditional Lao stilted houses, with monks in saffron robes walking silently through the misty morning streets for their daily alms ritual. It’s not a place where traditions are put on display for tourists—they’re woven into daily life. There’s this serene, almost nostalgic energy here that feels untouched.

Fafa’s Itinerary
To me, Luang Prabang feels like Chiang Mai’s retro sibling—charming, nostalgic, and vibingg. In this itinerary, I’ll share what we did and why every moment felt serene and unforgettable. From the tranquil streets to the rich cultural experiences, it’s a city that leaves a lasting impression.
I’ll share what we did during our four days, from hiking to temples to taking a sunset cruise along the majestic Mekong River.
Day 1: Night Market
We arrived late in the afternoon and decided to take it easy, relaxing at our hotel conveniently located in the heart of town. Everything was within walking distance, making it incredibly convenient. For dinner, we dined at the hotel restaurant, where we discovered that Lao cuisine is both flavorful and underrated—healthy yet packed with unique flavors.
Later that evening, we strolled to the night market, soaking in the lively atmosphere. There was live music, local craftsmanship, and textiles created by the locals.
Day 2: Almsgiving, City Tour & Mekong Cruise
Our day started early, rising at 5:30 AM to witness the almsgiving ritual—a deeply rooted tradition in Luang Prabang. It was humbling to watch as the monks walked silently through the streets, collecting food offerings from locals.
We began with a hike up Phou Si Hill, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Luang Prabang’s lush landscape, framed by rivers and mountains. Next, we visited the morning market nearby, with stalls selling fresh produce, meat, and goods from local villages. Exploring the city’s temples revealed a unique atmosphere that sets Luang Prabang apart from other Southeast Asian destinations. The serene vibe and the strong adherence to tradition made it one of my favorite places to visit.
After the city tour, we returned to the hotel to rest and tried their signature spa treatment. By 4:30 PM, we went on a sunset cruise along the Mekong River. The experience was incredible—the boat had a charming retro feel, the crew was fantastic, and the free-flowing drinks made it all the more enjoyable. The scenery along the river, with no large ferries or modern distractions, perfectly captured the timeless charm of the region.
For dinner, we headed to Manda de Laos, a chic restaurant serving exceptional Lao cuisine. The food, service, and atmosphere were all top-notch, making it a perfect end to the day.



Day 3: Kuang Si Waterfall & Afternoon Tea at Rosewood
In the morning, we took a trip to the Kuang Si Waterfall, about 1.5 hours from Luang Prabang. We were advised to leave around 9 AM to avoid the crowds. The journey itself was peaceful, though the bumpy roads occasionally reminded us that Laos is still a developing country.
When we arrived, Kuang Si revealed itself as a breathtaking oasis. The waterfall cascades down in multiple tiers, creating a series of turquoise pools. The site also has well-maintained walking paths and small wooden bridges, making it easy to explore. There’s even a bear rescue center nearby, where you can see sun bears lounging in their enclosures.
After relaxing at the waterfall, we returned to the hotel and then headed to the Rosewood for afternoon tea. This stunning property, designed by Bill Bensley, felt reminiscent of Capella Ubud but with a distinctly Laotian vibe. Located further from the city’s center, it’s an ideal retreat for honeymooners. The service and food were exceptional, and the hotel provided transfers back to our accommodation, which was a thoughtful touch.



Day 4: Departure to Bangkok
Our final morning in Luang Prabang was spent enjoying breakfast and reflecting on our tranquil time in this charming city. In the afternoon, we took a flight to Bangkok, where I’ll soon share my review on one of the best properties I’ve ever stayed at in the city.
Restaurants & Bars
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Manda de Laos: A chic, vibrant restaurant serving authentic Lao cuisine in a picturesque setting.
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Tamarind: Known for its focus on traditional Lao flavors, offering cooking classes and a chance to explore the local food culture.
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Big Tree Cafe: A cozy spot surrounded by greenery, ideal for a casual meal or a coffee break in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Tangor Restaurant: A fusion of Lao and French cuisines served in a lively and inviting setting.
Where to Stay
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Avani+ Luang Prabang: Formerly Azerai, this property was created by Aman’s founder after selling the Aman brand. It offers minimalist luxury in the heart of town.
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Amantaka: A true sanctuary under the Aman brand, blending colonial charm with the serene essence of Luang Prabang.
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Satri House: An elegant boutique hotel that combines heritage and luxury, offering a more intimate experience steeped in Laotian culture.
Our time in Laos left a lasting impression. Luang Prabang, in particular, is unlike any other Southeast Asian city. There are no skyscrapers or towering hotels—buildings are intentionally kept lower than Phou Si Temple, preserving the city’s natural and traditional charm.
That said, luxury accommodations here come at a high price, which tends to attract travelers who are genuinely interested in exploring the local culture. It’s a natural filter, ensuring the city maintains its authenticity. For me, Luang Prabang is truly a place that lingers in your heart long after you’ve left.
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