8 Great Things To Do in Luang Prabang, Laos: A Journey for the Broken Hearted

8 Great Things To Do in Luang Prabang, Laos: A Journey for the Broken Hearted

 

Not all travelers are seeking fun and adventure when taking a journey. For an unfortunate few, it is more of a breakout from an unpleasant reality. Call it escapism as an antidote by leaving the mania of Manila to seek a place where the soul can soak in taste, smell, sound and sights to revive it back to life.  One such meditative place is a fascinating land called Luang Prabang in Northern Laos, encircled by two prehistoric rivers, the Mekong and Nam Kang, set against a backdrop of mystical mountain ranges. For those who venture to Luang Prabang, Laos; this land is a remote sanctuary, if not a true tropical paradise, promising healing for a broken heart.

This dot on Earth has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site, with the preserved elegance of French-colonial structures coupled with distinctive local impression. It has gathered more fame with the endless arrival of vacationers.  Getting there from Manila is not a breeze, as there are no direct flights to Laos. Thus like a true pilgrim’s journey, planning in advance is wise.  

So take heart and save up for two weeks of journey (or maybe three?) Then wander around the nearby towns, as well as those slightly further afield in neighboring Thailand, Cambodia or Vietnam. However, the wise choose to spend more days in Luang Prabang, as here’s what it has to offer.

 

What Luang Prabang, Laos Has to Offer

 

8. Meditative Cafes

Sit in one of the cafes overlooking the Mekong River, which flows by in a calm and gentle manner. While ensconced in your seat, feel free to ponder your own life’s transit. Even in such serene surroundings, you may well contemplate that while we are on a seemingly effortless glide, an unpredictable wind always has the potential to suddenly lead our lives through stormier waters.

 

Laid back setting along the river (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

7. Rewarding Climbs

Climbing 300 steps of the steep Mt. Phou-Si can be physically challenging, but the reward in the end is a breathtaking view at the summit. As you gaze at this marvellous scene as far as the eyes can see, think of who and what you value just because they simply exist.

 

View from the top of the hill (Photo by Sean Bizley) 

Temple in the mountain (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

6. Majestic Waterfalls

Stand in awe at the towering Kuang-Si waterfall.  Amidst the misty surroundings, water rushing and gushing at speed, forceful and with great strength, thundering noise fills the air. Think of the bigger and grander things in your existence.

 

The last and grandest of the three falls in Kuang-Si (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

5. Tuk-Tuk Rides

Ride a Tuk-Tuk.  Many can easily get frustrated, thanks to the dirt roads, uneven, bumpy surfaces, or unexpected detours. Similarly, in life, the roads aren’t always smooth, yet we can choose which path to follow.

 

Ride a Tuk-Tuk to get around town (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

4. Inspiring Temples

Be inspired by the countless beautiful temples, each one a quiet reminder to indulge in prayer and self-reflection. Here, too, lies a good opportunity to discard excess baggage that weighs down the soul.

 

One of the many ancient temples in Luang Prabang (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

3. Humbling Processions

Show gratitude at the Alms Procession, a long-standing tradition of giving and sharing. To participate in it is a humbling experience, a good reminder to live by the laws of assisting your fellow man.

 

Morning Alms Procession (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

Now for the physical realm, the body needs to be satisfied, and Luang Prabang offers a wide variety of all of the food and drinks that one can desire. Asian cuisine and French pastries, paired with Lao whisky or beer is a culinary experience not to be missed.

 

2. Delicious Food

Savor the flavors of Laotian cooking  by trying street food, sweet crepes and fresh fruit shakes for the soul, or maybe try grilled veggies and egg?

 

Sidewalk vendor in town (photo by Sean Bizley)

 

1. Fun Shopping Places

For those more interested in shopping, you can choose to spend your millions of Lao Kip by trying to pick up a bargain at the night market.

 

Colorful souvenir items at the night market (Photo by Sean Bizley)

 

An unforgettable vacation, we all deserve. Until the next adventure, the heart shall wait. Luang Prabang is a place to see, put it on your bucket list this year! 

 

 

Luang Prabang, Laos: A Journey for the Broken Hearted