Landlocked Laos doesn’t have the famous beaches of its neighbors to attract tourists, but instead relies on the pristine beauty of its mountains and rivers and historical sites to bring in visitors. The crown jewel is Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where legend has it that Buddha once rested during his travels. It brings all the elements together, with its mix of historic Laotian and French colonial architecture on a peninsula at the confluence of the Mekong and the Nam Khan rivers. But a multibillion-dollar dam project underway 25 kilometers (15 miles) upstream has prompted concerns that it could result in the city losing its UNESCO status, and broader questions about what the government’s ambitious plans to build multiple dams across the Mekong will do to the river, t...
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Debuting in 2025, the Viking Tonle Will Double Viking's Capacity in Southeast Asia Viking has announced an expansion of its river fleet in Southeast Asia with the new Viking Tonle. Designed for the Mekong River, the 80-guest vessel will join its identical sister ship, the Viking Saigon, which debuted in 2022, and will sail between Kampong Cham, Cambodia and Mỹ Tho, Vietnam as part of Viking's popular 15-day Magnificent Mekong itinerary. The ship is under construction and is currently scheduled to debut in October 2025. To meet strong demand for Mekong River voyages, Viking has added sailing dates in 2025 and has now opened the entire 2026 season for booking. Built specifically to navigate the Mekong River, the new three-deck Viking Tonle, debuting in 2025, will feature a Pool (rende...
Read MoreThe Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office has unveiled Mekong Voices and Mekong’s Hidden Gems – captivating interviews with local tourism pioneers, and insights into less travelled ‘hidden’ destinations. Both initiatives are hosted on the new MekongTourism.org website. Mekong Voices is a series of Q&A interviews with intrepid travellers, pioneers and changemakers who are leading by example in the travel sector in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The dialogues delve into sustainability, resilience and innovation within the travel industry. They offer practical insights and serve as catalysts for transformative change. For example there are interviews with leaders of charitable travel foundations, community based tourism operators, hill tribe women, academics, CEOs, and destination ...
Read MoreA peaceful getaway in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Avani+ Luang Prabang debuts a new wellness programme ahead of World Wellness Weekend on 15-17 September 2023. Designed to help guests find their perfect peace, the multi-day ‘Luang Prabang Serene Sojourn’ package includes meditation classes with a senior monk, health-conscious meals, alms-giving ceremonies, and other immersive activities that showcase the essence of Laos and its enduring heritage. Closeup of masseur hands pouring aroma oil on woman back. Masseuse prepare to do oriental spa procedure for relaxing treatment. Therapist doing aromatherapy oil massage on woman body. In tropical Luang Prabang in Laos, where days start early, guests will be invited to attune to the local rhythm with a Sunrise Cruise by Mekong Kingdoms, ...
Read MoreAs Laos reopens with a lifting of all entry requirements for vaccinated travellers Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, a stylish sanctuary in the heart of the Mekong Riverside town, inspires guests to benefit from an exclusive three-night package. Reconnect with this heritage destination and combine unique experiences in Luang Prabang as well as indulgent spa journeys. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Luang Prabang offers a picturesque fusion of traditional Laotian style blended with the French colonial influence of the 19th and 20th centuries as reflected in the architecture and colonnaded streets. A lively night market and exquisite bakeries line the main promenade, and culture vultures will be delighted to explore the pagoda studded temples and climb Mount Phousi viewpoint for the best van...
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