Hansruedi Frutiger
editor@classactmedia.co.th
Last week we followed Hans on his journey through Luang Prabang in Laos, read on to find out what he did next.
TAK BAT - The Monks call to Alms
If you’re interested in seeing this, then ensure you’re up by 6am. Saffron clad monks of all ages, parade barefoot through the streets while tourists and locals place tiny balls of sticky rice and other items in their bowls. I know it happens all over in Laos and Thailand but not with so many monks. Maintain the silence and keep photographing from a distance. I recommend arriving by a bicycle, and make sure you don’t chatter! A must see when in Luang Prabang.
Tat Kuang Si, Waterfalls
Just a 40 minute ride from Luang Prabang, there is a little paradise. A tuk tuk from Luang Prabang charges around Kip 200,000 (aprox B830). I paid for a private air conditioned van, which costed around USD 35 (aprox B1180).
Upon entering the park, one of the first attractions is the black bear rescue centre. The residences here have been confiscated from poachers and are kept in a large-fenced, well-kept cage. The waterfalls are stunning, especially during the dry season. A 10-minute walk brings you to the first of several cascades. No bikinis are permitted in the Azure blue pools. The best view is from a footbridge, which you can climb up to the top – but be aware it is slippery.
By the way, ensure to check if you need a visa before entering Laos. Being Swiss, I didn’t need to buy a visa on entrance.
Money: The Lao Kip can only be used in Laos. 1 THB= Kit 240.37. Money changers are readily available as are ATM machines. Tip: Ensure you bring along any medicines with you if your immune system can sometimes lag.
Laos cuisines are not really celebrated or recognised outside the country, like how Thai food is recognised all around the world, but be that as it may, there are still some superb offerings available for everyone’s taste.
I visited the Amantika Hotel, a former hospital located in the midst of the city with 21 suites and 120 employees. It wasn’t exactly a cheap deal either. I also noticed in most of the hotels that televisions are only available on request.
I had dinner at the Rest l’ephante, which is a lovely restored colonial house in the heart of the city. Not the cheapest treat, but a good ambiance and great food and wine. They also have a coffee house in town called Le café ban vat sane, or try the Coconut Garden Restaurant, which is another great choice.
I went with Jacques Mury – GM of Satri House, the hotel I stayed at the day I first arrived – to see the old / newly renovated Sofitel, formerly called Hotel del Le Paix or in the old days the prison of Luang Prabang.
Don’t forget to change any left over Kip before leaving Laos, as the currency is not traded abroad.
Many visitors from China, South Korea and Thailand can be seen in all of the tourist areas. Many backpackers from Europe and the States enjoy eating at the road side stalls and can be found occupying many of the less expensive accommodation.
For short stay visitors, Luang Prabang is impressive, particularly due to its World Heritage status. It’s not just a place of temples and monks. Beyond the city, one can also find ventures in elephant camps, mountain bikes, trails and more.
Have fun and a relaxing time.