The first day starts with an electric bike tour of Luang Prabang, followed by a game of petanque, a Lao dance performance and a visit to the colorful night market. The second day highlights an alms-giving ritual, a hike around Kuang Si waterfalls and a traditional baci ceremony. On the third morning, a cruise along the Mekong River to Kamu Lodge includes a stop at the Pak Ou caves. Spending the night at Kamu Lodge, guests are free to partake in the wide array of activities available, from rice planting to gold panning, fishing to village trekking. By boat, guests return to Luang Prabang the following morning and they will have the rest of the day at leisure. For more program details, click here.

The program starts in Bangkok where guests will visit revered sights such as the Grand Palace, Wat Po and Jim Thompson Museum with rides on tuk-tuks and taxi boats. Flying to Luang Prabang on the third day, the program tours the ancient city’s iconic temples, Mekong River and evening market with opportunities to learn about Lao culture through alms giving, a textile workshop and cooking course. The program continues to Vientiane where guests will visit famed temples as well as participate in a traditional baci ceremony. Crossing borders into Cambodia, they will spend another two days sightseeing in Phnom Penh before heading to Siem Reap to discover its Angkor monuments. The program ends with a flight back to Bangkok.

To view program details of Colorful Capitals, click here.

Amantaka, the latest luxury property from the Aman group, has just opened in Luang Prabang. Set in a restored French colonial building, the resort consists of 24 suites, an art gallery and spa. It is located just south of Mount Phousi and within walking distance to Luang Prabang’s main attractions. Click here to view the details of Amantaka.

Recently opened, the Muang Thong Hotel is ideal for group bookings. Situated a short stroll from the town center, the hotel has a swimming pool and the spacious rooms are appointed in traditional Lao style. Another addition is the AA Villa, a small family-owned property offering 12 well-equipped guestrooms and a swimming pool. It is located within the city center and a 10-minute drive from the airport.

The Villa Savanh has opened in Luang Prabang adding another option to the boutique property scene. Located on the main street in downtown, Villa Savanh gives off a true ‘home away from home’ vibe by offering only three duplexes for guests in a converted French villa. Each of the large duplexes features a large sitting room, private bathroom and garden views.

The Luang Prabang Excursion is a 4-day package which allows travelers to discover the Lao heritage town at their own pace. Besides airport transfers and a 3-night stay at the Villa Maly boutique hotel, this flexible program also includes a variety of activities which can be scheduled at any time during the visit. Guests can choose their preferred timings once they have arrived for a one-hour massage, a dinner at Villa Maly’s Le Vetiver Restaurant, a half-day rental of an electric bike and a sunset dinner cruise on the Nava Mekong. This offer is only applicable for new bookings and is valid for travel until 30 September 2009. Click here to view the package.

Dyen Sabai Restaurant has recently opened in Luang Prabang. Located on the other side of the Nam Khan River from the historic old town, the restaurant provides nice sunset views. The Dyen Sabai serves delicious Lao food, including a unique Sindha (their special fondue dish).

In Luang Prabang, Zen Namkhan Boutique Resort has opened on the banks of the Nam Khan River. Located a 20-minute drive from the town center, this boutique property blends ecotourism principles with Zen philosophy in its design and facilities. Each of the 5 guestrooms is set in spacious cottages with a porch that offers lovely vistas of the lush surroundings. Notable resort features include the ecological chlorine-free pool and the management’s commitment to serve healthy Asian and Mediterranean food with organic produce from their own gardens.

Parents can bring their young kids on our eco-friendly bike trips in Luang Prabang as child seats are now available on our electronic bikes. These back-mounted seats come with features such seat belts and adjustable foot straps to ensure a safe and comfortable ride for children. Recommended for young kids above two years of age, Exotissimo Laos will provide helmets for both adults and children. Contact laos@exotissimo.com for more information.