After many years of returning, Laos remains the same to me. The chaotic sound of horns is still absent; the peaceful image of monks barefoot on their alms rounds continues to mark the serene start of a new day; the people are still as gentle and hospitable; Luang Prabang remains tranquil with its centuries-old houses nestled peacefully together; Vientiane is still a blend of ancient and modern; and there’s the unforgettable memory of a misty breakfast surrounded by rolling hills and serene golden rice fields in Vang Vieng…
Vientiane: A Blend of Ancient and Modern
Despite being the most populous city, Vientiane maintains a peaceful and tranquil lifestyle. It is home to numerous ancient and unique architectural works bearing the distinct imprint of Buddhism. Hundreds of temples are scattered throughout this small capital, including renowned ones like Wat Si Saket – the temple with the most ancient statues; That Luang – Laos’ largest stupa; and Wat Si Muang – the most sacred temple in the capital.
Wandering through the city, you’ll constantly be fascinated by the harmonious blend of modern and traditional elements. Modern cafes hide among ancient trees, while old houses stand side by side with contemporary buildings that incorporate local architectural styles. The locals’ gentle and measured demeanor contrasts sharply with the bustling pace of tourists. This unique blend creates a distinctive rhythm of life in Vientiane – a place where tradition meets modernity.
Luang Prabang: Where Time Stands Still
Standing in the heart of the small town of Luang Prabang, I was overwhelmed by the tranquility of this ancient capital. The first thing you must do in Luang Prabang is to learn to walk softly and speak quietly. This is a wonderful experience that not all travelers fully embrace. Any disturbance can make you feel like you’re from another planet. This peaceful and ancient city, where the sacred and the secular coexist, blurs the lines between past and present. Perhaps it’s this tranquility and serenity that earned Luang Prabang a spot among the top 50 most beautiful small towns in the world, according to Travel + Leisure magazine.
The town still preserves centuries-old structures, a harmonious blend of Lao tradition and French colonial architecture. This historical value earned Luang Prabang UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995.
Lao people deeply revere Buddhism and monks. Buddhist monks are an integral part of daily life. You can easily spot young novices going to school or to the market. I’ve had the privilege of joining monks on their alms rounds, capturing touching images of Lao people kneeling respectfully as the sun rises, offering food to the monks. According to Buddhist teachings, alms rounds bring significant spiritual benefits to both the monks and the people.
The allure of Luang Prabang lies in its pervasive sense of peace and tranquility. Everything here is serene yet vibrant, devoid of any melancholy. A swaying champa flower is extraordinarily beautiful; a cat and a dog can face each other without a sound. Visitors can enjoy this peace in their own way: sipping coffee, reading a book, cycling, or savoring local delicacies like Lao sausage, papaya salad, or steamed fish in banana leaves at charming cafes along the river.
For nature lovers, a visit to the magnificent Kuang Si Waterfall, located 30km from the city center, is a must. The journey takes you through stunning landscapes, leading to a series of cascading waterfalls and emerald pools. Activities like zip-lining, swimming, and enjoying a picnic lunch by the waterfall make for an unforgettable experience in Luang Prabang.
Vang Vieng: A Romantic Retreat
Since the launch of the high-speed Lao-China railway in 2021, traveling in Laos has become more convenient. The journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, which used to take 10-15 hours by bus on winding mountain roads, can now be completed in less than two hours.
Vang Vieng is currently undergoing rapid development, with new construction projects and resorts popping up along the Nam Song River. However, amidst these changes, Viengtara Vang Vieng Resort remains a serene oasis, exuding the charm of a Laotian maiden. The resort’s golden rice fields, wooden bridges, and mountain backdrops create a romantic and picturesque setting. Guests can spend their days relaxing, reading, and enjoying the fresh air. A leisurely breakfast in your bungalow is a highlight of any stay.
Viengtara Vang Vieng Resort offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its soothing sounds of birdsong and rustling rice fields, the resort provides a peaceful and idyllic retreat. The attentive service and warm hospitality make it no wonder that this resort is often referred to as the “heart” or “gem” of Vang Vieng.
With its warm hospitality, tranquility, and natural beauty, Laos is a country that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. It is a place I always find myself longing to return to after exploring other destinations.
Text: Kiengcan
Photos: Kiengcan & Cam Nong Bong
Travel & Resort Fashion: Vu Viet Ha, Hoang Minh Ha, Truong Thanh Long
Kiếng Cận, the photographer, is also a Producer and Creative Director – affectionately known as the “King of Runway Moments” among Vietnamese fashion enthusiasts. He is considered the keeper of the soul and memories of Vietnam’s most prestigious fashion shows, as his photographs pioneered the development of fashion photography at fashion shows in Vietnam. For his contributions to fashion, Kiếng Cận was honored at the Harper’s Bazaar Star Awards 2022 with the title of Photographer of the Year. He was also awarded Photographer of the Year at the Vietnam Beauty Fashion Awards 2023. Travel and travel photography are also sources of inspiration that keep him creatively energized.