The best things to do in Luang Prabang, the beguiling UNESCO World Heritage-listed former royal capital, whose peaceful streets are lined with splendid colonial villas and sparkling temples containing golden Buddhas, include everything from observing the early morning alms-giving ritual to learning to cook Lao food. Lovely Luang Prabang lies on the banks of the Mekong … Read more
Sustainable souvenirs to buy in Southeast Asia include anything that’s handmade and handcrafted, fair trade and ethically-produced rather than factory-made, and locally created rather than imported. Traditional crafts, art and artisanal wares, along with eco-friendly, pre-loved, recycled, and up-cycled things are all good sustainable choices. Elephant pants are not. There’s a reason I’m singling out … Read more
UNESCO World Heritage sites in Southeast Asia you can’t miss include everything from the near perfectly preserved historic centres of Luang Prabang in Laos and Hoi An in Vietnam to the spectacular sprawling temple sites of Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia, Sukhothai Historical Park in Thailand, and Bagan Archaeological Zone in Myanmar. Southeast Asia is … Read more
The best Luang Prabang boutique hotels to book to absorb the history, culture and beauty of this well preserved UNESCO World Heritage listed old town include handsome French colonial-era residences of late kings, a former royal summer house, and the old French Governor’s residence of the 1900s. Lovely Luang Prabang received its UNESCO World Heritage … Read more
The best hotel swimming pools in the world for swimming must be big pools where you can get in some laps. Whether they’re enchanting courtyard pools lined by palm trees or sleek infinity pools with sweeping sea views, the bigger the better for some serious swimming. Summer is well and truly underway in the northern … Read more