Many a traveler's tale in Luang Prabang begins like this: "Well, I was only supposed to stay here for a couple days, but . . . ." The quiet street-side cafes, ancient temples, and laid-back, friendly locals give this town a tranquillity that has sucked many unsuspecting visitors in for weeks (or years) at a time. A visit here feels like a vacation from your vacation.
Start your day at dawn, when the temple drums break the early morning silence and saffron-clad monks walk the misty streets to receive rice from the townspeople for their daily meal. Buddhists believe that by giving rice in this life ("making merit"), they are ensuring that they will not go hungry in their next life. Tourists can also participate in this ancient tradition, but should understand that although it has become an attraction of sorts, it is still a sacred ritual.
The rest of the day can be spent seeing the sights or relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. The town itself is the main attraction, though, and the time-worn streets will undoubtedly reveal hidden gems and memorable encounters, whether it's a store selling the perfect antique or a temple housing monks anxious to practice their English.
Although UNESCO's designation of Luang Prabang as a World Heritage Site in 1995 raised the town's international profile and contributed to a mass influx of tourists, the designation also means that the town's growth will be managed and will hopefully retain its charm for years to come.
