This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Luang Prabang.
It is not difficult to see how Luang Prabang earned its UNESCO World Heritage Site title. The architecture of the amazing temples that are scattered throughout the local town are nothing short of spectacular and you can spend days exploring them. But this is not all there is to this beautiful town. It is a mesh with stunning natural features and a calm ambiance that is reflected in the beautiful local people that you will meet here. Hostels in Luang Prabang are not in a localized region but distributed throughout the town center.
For those who love nature, take a trip out to the Kuang Si Waterfalls; if you are really keen, you can also take a swim. The Pak Ou Caves are only a short boat ride down the Mekong River and are also a must-see for the region. For sunset, climb to the top of Mount Phousi and watch the sun set over the stunning Mekong. From here, you can also see the red tent tops being erected for the local night market that runs through the streets with local vendors selling a range of local crafts and produce. On the opposite end of the scale, if you are up for sunrise, you can go and observe the alms-giving ceremonies where the local people give to the monks as they walk down the streets each morning. It is a stunning and spectacular sight to witness.
The other major thing that is very popular out of Luang Prabang is elephant conservation camp trips. Many of the companies here allow the elephants to roam free and they are not treated as poorly as they are in many of the other camps throughout Thailand. Do your research and choose a conservation program where the elephants are treated well if you are going on one of these trips. The elephant is a spectacular animal and these trips are amazing.
Written by local enthusiast for Luang Prabang hostels
Globetrotter
