LUANGSAY - NORTHERN JEWELS

The Mekong River is rich in legend linking seven Asian nations from Tibet to the South China Sea. Perhaps the most mythical of Mekong experiences is a slow-boat river journey through Northern Laos, a timeless land still rich in exotic mysteries waiting to be discovered.

The Asian Oasis - LuangSay cruise is a journey through remote mountainous stretches of the Mekong between the Northern Thai border at Houeisay and the royal old city of Luang Prabang - in a style fit for a king.

Established in the 14th Century, Luang Prabang sits majestically on the banks of the Mekong River. This charming and much sought-after city was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1995 and is considered one of Asia’s best preserved ancient capitals. To wander its quiet, timeless lanes is to enter a living museum of life, architecture and serenity.


THE LUANGSAY CRUISE

Gliding effortlessly across currents and along pristine forests, the LuangSay boat is a purpose-built 34 metre luxury river barge, a stylish replica of the journey craft famous to these waters. Long scenic stretches of breezy, sun soaked river cruising are punctuated by visits to river-side hilltribe villages and the magical Tham Thing Caves of a Thousand Buddhas. In between the two days on the river, the LuangSay Lodge at Pakbeng offers a charming and serene riverside stay, a perfect romantic interlude in this unspoiled wilderness setting.


ITINERARY

Day 1: Houeisay - Pakbeng. Early morning, set out on a leisurely cruise to Pakbeng, with lunch onboard and hilltribe village stops along the way. A sunset arrival at Pakbeng is followed by a succulent dinner of traditional Northern Lao food and an enchanting stay at LuangSay Lodge.

Day 2: Pakbeng - Luang Prabang. Breakfast at the lodge, then cruise towards the mouth of the Nam Ou River. Enjoy lunch onboard, before exploring the Tham Thing Caves. Visit a local hilltribe village to sample its rice whiskey, then arrive late- afternoon at Luang Prabang.

Note: The above itinerary is also offered in reverse and as a 1 day 1 night trip beginning from the LuangSay Lodge in Packbaeng – access either by boat or road.


LUANGSAY LODGE

A stay at the LuangSay Lodge is worth the trip itself. Built on the shores of the Mekong in the traditional Lao style of solid wood, this elegantly appointed lodge features:

- 16 pavilions with a total of 19 rooms and 38 beds
- 180 degree open-shudder window views of the lush riverside gardens
  and Mekong valley
- Private shower bathrooms with western toilets and hot water
- Individual fans and mosquito netting
- A restaurant terrace overlooking the Mekong


LUANGSAY BOATS

The safety and comfort of the LuangSay boats are truly the envy of all other river travellers in the region as they provide the perfect setting for leisurely river travel. With 34 metre steel hulls, they feature:

- Modern safety equipment and lifejackets
- A capacity of 40 comfortable seats each, with an open air vista and
  lounge furniture
- Ample luggage space and porters
- Games and reading materials
- Immaculately clean western style toilets
- A fully-stocked bar


ACCESS

Houeisay to Luang Prabang

Pick ups are available by private vehicle from either the airport or hotels in Chiang Rai with transfer to the Thai – Laos border, approximately 1 hour drive.

Luang Prabang to Houeisay

Pick ups are available by local taxi from either the airport or hotels in Luang Prabang.
 

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