AFTER a luxurious night’s stay in Singapore, I fly to Laos, a nation of northeast-central mainland Southeast Asia, with Scoot.
We travel just 10 minutes from the city centre and arrive at the Pullman Luang Prabang, a sprawling country property surrounded by rice paddies.
The resort has unique and cultural Lao characteristics, along with contemporary offerings and electric buggies to transport you around the resort.
My Premium Deluxe Room has a king bed and I can’t resist having a quick snooze on arrival.
After my power nap, I continue my relaxation in the deep bathtub, located in the middle of my bathroom, and take in the views of the surrounding mountains.
My room is also located close to one of two pools, which is next on my agenda.
After exploring the property, I decide to skip the buggy ride and take a walk down the pathways of the resort leading me to the Pullman’s L’Atelier restaurant, which has some of the best Laotian food you’ll find.
EXPLORE
Elephant Conservation Center
Our three-day Laos adventure begins with a visit to the Elephant Conservation Center, located in Sayaboury in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, which acts to preserve and protect the Asian elephant, a species under threat of extinction.
This is truly a life-changing experience and I love patting and feeding these magnificent creatures.
Kuang Si Falls
AROUND 29kms south of Luang Prabang and surrounded by dense jungle, you’ll find this spectacular three-level waterfall.
The water plunges 50m and flows into shallow turquoise pools before flowing downstream.
When we visit, tourists jump into the swimming holes and under the stream enjoying a reprieve from the heat.
If swimming isn’t for you, visitors can relax by the jungle and take in the beautiful surroundings.
The walk to the top tier is short but steep, so wear comfortable shoes.
The Laos Buffalo Dairy is also worth a visit for some tasty homemade buffalo ice cream, and be sure to take in the sunset on a leisurely cruise down the famed Mekong River with Mekong Kingdoms.
STAY
Sofitel Luang Prabang Hotel
After my stay at the Pullman, I head to my new temporary home, the Sofitel Luang Prabang.
Walking into this luxurious modern property, I am greeted with a Baci ceremony.
The Baci ceremony is uniquely Lao, and involves the tying of white cotton strings around my wrist for good luck and prosperity.
Sofitel Luang Prabang was originally built as a French Governor’s residence in the 1900s and is conveniently located in a quiet area, protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a five-minute drive from the city centre.
In addition to the brilliant green gardens and 25-metre outdoor pool, my room blows me away.
My spacious Superior Garden Suite is decorated with Lao silk and artifacts, and the king bed is as inviting as ever.
A door opens onto a garden with an outdoor gazebo and bathtub.
The Softiel also offers spa therapies and massage treatments as well as fine dining at the Governor’s Grill, where you can enjoy local buffalo meat specialties and other culinary delights.
TIP
Singapore to Sydney: SCOOT BIZ
Flying on a charter flight from Singapore’s Changi Airport to Sydney, I found the service to be the step up from ScootinSilence. Not only do you get first preference boarding your flight but also all of the perks that go with flying business.
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