Luang Prabang

We have had the most amazing time in Luang Prabang, which used to the royal capitol of Laos. It is one of the best preserved and beautiful ancient cities in South East Asia and was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1995.

It is wonderful to roam the streets by foot or by bike

Setting up the night markets and Old French Charm

It is literally like stepping into another world where the pace of life here is slower, more peaceful and serene. Everyone here mostly gets around by bicycle or by foot – the town is very small.   I also feel like everywhere I walk I can see some of my paintings come alive; there are butterflies dancing all around us and the foliage/ plant life is extraordinary.

Colours are extraordinary

LP is famous for it’s beautiful temples and the monks who have been living here for many years. They are an integral part of life here; you see them strolling around town in their brilliant orange robes – it’s quite an extraordinary sight. Every morning at 6am, the monks leave the temple and walk through the town collecting offerings of sticky rice/ food from the locals (and some tourists). Unfortunately, the whole ritual has turned into quite a circus as the monks are greeted by hordes of tourists taking photos right in their faces. Paparazzi Plus!!

Accepting offerings from the locals

The architecture here is a mix of French colonial and Laos – charming wooden shutters and beautiful facades. There are lots of wonderful French cafes, restaurants and wine bars as the main industry here is tourism. From 5pm, part of the main street gets blocked off for the night markets where you can find wonderful handicrafts and souvenirs to buy.

Golden Temples

Citron Tart and Decorations

The town of Luang Prabang

LP is definitely one of our favourite places in the world.