Luang Prabang has a mixed reputation. Here's how to enjoy your first visit.
Since the opening of the China-Laos Railway, Luang Prabang in Laos has become a popular destination for international travel. It's convenient, cheap, and was once rated as one of the most worthwhile destinations by Lonely Planet.
However, people who have been to Laos have very mixed reviews of the place.
✅ Positive reviews: cheap, relaxing, French style
❌ Negative reviews: dirty, poor, boring
Summary: Luang Prabang is suitable for relaxing, with no purpose, drinking coffee, and going to Ban Vay. It's really not suitable for those with a strong sense of purpose, who are more like special forces, and who like to check in at attractions, because you'll find it very boring 🥱.
Having relaxed in Laos for more than 10 days, I actually quite like it.
"Luang Prabang Features"
✅ Coffee shops ☕️
Luang Prabang has the most coffee shops. You'll find many foreigners who do nothing all day but sit and drink coffee and wine. The coffee shops here are really beautiful. I recommend the following ⬇️
✅ Morning alms
Every morning from 5:30 to 6:30, monks will start from Wat Xieng Thong and gradually accept rice and snacks from the public and tourists. It's very shocking to witness it in person.
✅ Wat Xieng Thong
There are dozens of temples in Luang Prabang, the most famous of which is Wat Xieng Thong. There are many colorful patterns in the temple, among which the most famous is the Tree of Life.
✅ Royal Palace
The most photogenic check-in point in Luang Prabang is the zebra crossing on the road outside the Royal Palace. If you like taking photos, you must go.
✅ Mekong River sunset
Every evening, the sunset over the Mekong River is also a must-see. There are often very beautiful sunsets. At this time, it's great to have a coffee nearby or have dinner on a boat on the Mekong River.
[About food]
1. Luang Say Cafe & Restaurant: The steak is very good, the coffee is very good, the fried noodles are very good, the fried ribs are very good, and you can discover the rest for yourself.
2. The most authentic French restaurant 🍴: Lost In Baan - Asian Fusion - Restaurant & Bar. You'll know when you go. The price is quite French, but it's up to you.
3. Night market: There is a barbecue shop with the words "Chinese flavor" written on it. The braised pig's trotters are very good. I recommend going.
[About transportation]
1. I didn't rent any transportation, I just walked. This way, I could slow down and experience the slow life of Luang Prabang.
2. If you're tired, take a tuk-tuk. My personal suggestion: don't let them quote a price. Just take out your phone calculator, enter 30,000, and ask if they will go. If not, take the next one. 30,000 is fine within 1.5 km, and you can add 10,000 if it's further. But I personally suggest not being too nice to them, as many of them have a high tone.
[About accommodation]
Wat Aham and Wat Mai are both fine. The price is basically between 180 and 280, and breakfast is included.