There has been an increase in the number of international hotel chains moving into Lao PDR (Laos) in recent years due to the country’s growing tourism industry. However, I do not have the most up-to-date information on the number of international hotel chains currently operating in Laos.
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, some of the major international hotel chains that have a presence in Laos include the Accor Group, which operates the Sofitel, Pullman, and Novotel brands in the country, and the Marriott International Group, which operates the Marriott and Sheraton brands in Laos. Other international hotel chains with a presence in Laos include the Best Western, InterContinental, and Crowne Plaza brands.
It is worth noting that the hospitality industry can be dynamic and subject to change. Therefore, there may be new international hotel chains that have entered the market since my knowledge cutoff date.
Lao PDR (Laos) has become a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts in recent years, with its limestone cliffs and karst formations providing a unique and challenging climbing experience. Some of the most popular climbing areas in Laos include:
1. Thakhek: Located in central Laos, Thakhek is a popular climbing destination known for its limestone cliffs and challenging routes. The climbing season in Thakhek typically runs from November to March.
2. Vang Vieng: Situated north of the capital city of Vientiane, Vang Vieng is another popular climbing area in Laos. The limestone cliffs here offer a range of routes suitable for climbers of all levels.
3. Luang Prabang: While not as well-known as Thakhek or Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang is also home to some excellent climbing areas, including the Pha Phayom and Pha Daeng cliffs.
It’s worth noting that rock climbing in Laos is still a relatively new and developing activity, and climbers should exercise caution and use the services of a reputable guide or climbing company to ensure safety. Additionally, it’s important to respect the local environment and culture while climbing in Laos.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Laos-kwang-si-falls-main-picture_0-scaled.jpg19202560Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-08-21 11:50:002023-08-21 11:43:23Tourism and location in Lao PDR
Angnamtong View Resort and Draft House Restaurant, about 90 minutes from Vientiane Capital in Meuang Feuang, held its soft opening in March 2022, and is already attracting guests to its villas, floating pavilions, and water sports on the Nam Tong Reservoir. The secluded yet easily accessible property is set to fully open before the end of this year.
The resort’s super-tall villas are perched on the hillside with stilts, and overlook the lake through floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors. The villas comfortably sleep two, but there is room to bring in extra beds for families. The interiors feature nicely varnished wood ceilings, walls, and floors, giving the room a modern, natural feel. Each villa opens to a balcony with ample seating and a net-like hammock that hangs from the base.
Below the villas, a long bamboo dock presents the resort’s focal point. It runs parallel to the shoreline, with more than 20 salas set on the lake for friends and families, who want lounge, eat, drink, or dive into the calm waters for a swim. Kids can safely cool off in small pools that extend out from the pavilions and dip into the reservoir like nets with floors.
The artificial archipelago also serves as the center for a variety water activities. Guests can paddle kayaks around the lake’s islets and peninsulas, before tying them off at their salas. Jet skiers can bring their water scooters to rip around on the smooth surface. Tubes are also available for just lazing on the lake in front of the pavilions.
The resort’s Draft House Restaurant offers a menu starring local Lao favorites including fish, laap (minced fish or pork salad), spicy somtam, and noodle and rice dishes. Guests can eat at the restaurant or have meals and snacks, along with cold soft drinks and beer, delivered to their pavilions on the dock. Sunset dinners at the salas are already a big hit.
Angnamtong View Resort presents a great overnight stopover on the overland route between Vientiane-Vang Vieng-Luang Prabang. Guests staying at Meuang Feuang’s Nam Lik Riverside accommodation will find the Angnamtong a pleasant daytime diversion. It’s off the beaten track, yet only about 90 minutes from the capital and less from Vang Vieng, making it perfect for day trippers.
For more information and to book a villa at Angnamtong View Resort, click here.
How to Get to Angnamtong View Resort : From Vientiane and Vang Vieng, take the expressway to the Hin Hoeup exit and head west on the newly paved Nam Lik River Road to Ban Don, where you turn south on the Meuang Feuang District road. Continue for about 15 minutes to the righthand turn to the resort.
Laos has planted its national flag atop Nong Khiaw’s Pha Daeng Peak, arguably the country’s #1 viewpoint. The summit is known for its morning “Sea Fog” and recent addition of tent camping about three hours north of Luang Prabang.
A dawn hike to the top takes climbers above the clouds that cling to the mountains in the horizon. The rising sun burns off the mist to reveal a 360-degree panorama starring the Nam Ou River snaking around Nong Khiaw Town.
The Lao flag stands on a boulder at the absolute pinnacle of Pha Daeng Peak, like the cherry on top of a viewpoint sundae. The scene begs visitors to step up for a portrait or selfie that guarantees a string of comments and emojis on your Facebook page.
The new camping option adds a mountain sunset for afternoon hikers, who can then catch the following morning’s Sea Fog show. Pitch a tent, have a cook out, sit around a campfire, and enjoy a night in nature.
The easy-to-follow, zig-zagging trail to the peak takes an hour or so, depending on the hiker’s pace in tackling the medium-grade trek. The well-signed path is constantly being improved by the community, who continually add ropes and steps to help climbers, especially during Green Season (July-October), when the trail can get a bit sloppy.
A wooden shelter greets the intrepid to Pha Daeng Peak, presenting a place to rest or bite into a snack and sip on the drink you brought along.
Tent camping began trending among Laotians during the 2020-2021 Lao Thiao Lao domestic tourism campaign. Since Laos reopened on 9 May 2022, local tour operators are adding tent camping at Pha Daeng Peak to their Luang Prabang itineraries for foreign tourists. To prevent crowding, campers need to book in advance.
Getting to Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang
The 142-km drive in a van from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw takes about 3 hours. Transportation providers in Luang Prabang offer seats in vans and cars. Local busses are also available at the bus station. Departure times vary, but tend to leave in the early morning. You can also access Nong Khiaw from Muang Xai by car or motorbike.
Getting to Pha Daeng Viewpoint Entrance
The entrance to the Pha Daeng Viewpoint trail is located across the bridge from Nong Khiaw Town. The distance is less than 1 km. The entrance and ticket booth (LAK 20,000 as of 1 July) is on the left and presents several information panels about the hike and the community, who is the caretaker of the attraction and activity.
Preparing for the Hike
The trek takes a moderate amount of fitness. It is recommended to wear appropriate walking footwear, though locals make the hike in sandals. Visitors will need to bring their own food and drinks as none are yet available at the top. Campers will need to bring their own gear or join a group with a tour operator in Luang Prabang or Nong Khiaw Town. To book tent camping (maximum 10 PAX), WhatsApp/Tel +856 20 2202 2555.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/1-Pha-Daeng-Flag-2.jpeg600800Soutsada Xaphouvonghttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSoutsada Xaphouvong2023-08-16 09:31:002023-08-11 12:36:33Hiking & Camping at the Best Viewpoint in Laos: Pha Daeng Peak
Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. Despite being one of the least developed countries in the region, Laos has seen a steady growth in its tourism industry in recent years.
Tourism in Laos is largely centered around its rich cultural and natural heritage. The country boasts of stunning landscapes, including the Mekong River, which runs through the heart of Laos, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, a city with a well-preserved blend of traditional Lao and colonial French architecture.
Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, is a popular destination among tourists due to its stunning temples and monasteries, night markets, and traditional Lao cuisine. Visitors can also witness the daily alms-giving ceremony, where monks walk through the streets collecting food offerings from locals and tourists.
Another popular destination in Laos is Vang Vieng, a town situated on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains. Vang Vieng is known for its adventure activities, including cave exploration, kayaking, and tubing down the river.
Laos is also home to several national parks and reserves, such as the Phou Hin Poun National Biodiversity Conservation Area, which is home to rare animal species such as the saola and the Indochinese tiger.
Tourism in Laos is still relatively underdeveloped compared to other countries in the region, and the country has been working to improve its infrastructure and tourism services to attract more visitors. The government has also been promoting community-based tourism initiatives to help local communities benefit from tourism while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.
Overall, Laos offers a unique cultural and natural experience to tourists looking to explore Southeast Asia beyond the more popular destinations in the region.
Thanks to David the General Manager of Tiger Trail Travel, he has updated his blog of Coffee shops to visit.
Luang Prabang coffee spots as there are now over 24 places with the explosion of cafes in recent years. the whole country is alive with new coffee shops and coffee producers, producing some excellent quality Beans.
and the export market is strong to date and being well known to date!
please follow David and the Blog on coffee in Luang Prabang well worth a Coffee hunt.
As of 2023, Vang Vieng remains a popular tourist destination in Laos, known for its stunning natural scenery and adventure activities. The town is situated on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains, making it a picturesque location for outdoor activities such as kayaking, tubing, and rock climbing.
One of the most popular activities in Vang Vieng is tubing down the Nam Song River, where visitors can float down the river on an inner tube, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. The town also offers a range of adventure activities such as rock climbing, cave exploration, and hot air balloon rides, making it a popular destination for adrenaline junkies.
Aside from adventure activities, Vang Vieng also offers a range of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local villages and learn about traditional Lao life, sample local cuisine, and visit temples and monasteries.
In recent years, Vang Vieng has been working to improve its infrastructure and tourism services to cater to the increasing number of visitors. The town now offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts, and has a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Vang Vieng has also been working to promote sustainable tourism practices, with initiatives such as community-based tourism projects and eco-tourism activities that support local communities while preserving the natural environment.
Despite its popularity, Vang Vieng has managed to maintain its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for backpackers and travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Overall, Vang Vieng continues to be a popular destination for adventure and nature lovers, with a range of activities and experiences on offer to suit different interests and budgets.
Hotel Chains moving into Lao PDR
There has been an increase in the number of international hotel chains moving into Lao PDR (Laos) in recent years due to the country’s growing tourism industry. However, I do not have the most up-to-date information on the number of international hotel chains currently operating in Laos.
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, some of the major international hotel chains that have a presence in Laos include the Accor Group, which operates the Sofitel, Pullman, and Novotel brands in the country, and the Marriott International Group, which operates the Marriott and Sheraton brands in Laos. Other international hotel chains with a presence in Laos include the Best Western, InterContinental, and Crowne Plaza brands.
It is worth noting that the hospitality industry can be dynamic and subject to change. Therefore, there may be new international hotel chains that have entered the market since my knowledge cutoff date.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-hotel-chains-moving-lao-pdr
Tourism and location in Lao PDR
Lao PDR (Laos) has become a popular destination for rock climbing enthusiasts in recent years, with its limestone cliffs and karst formations providing a unique and challenging climbing experience. Some of the most popular climbing areas in Laos include:
1. Thakhek: Located in central Laos, Thakhek is a popular climbing destination known for its limestone cliffs and challenging routes. The climbing season in Thakhek typically runs from November to March.
2. Vang Vieng: Situated north of the capital city of Vientiane, Vang Vieng is another popular climbing area in Laos. The limestone cliffs here offer a range of routes suitable for climbers of all levels.
3. Luang Prabang: While not as well-known as Thakhek or Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang is also home to some excellent climbing areas, including the Pha Phayom and Pha Daeng cliffs.
It’s worth noting that rock climbing in Laos is still a relatively new and developing activity, and climbers should exercise caution and use the services of a reputable guide or climbing company to ensure safety. Additionally, it’s important to respect the local environment and culture while climbing in Laos.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-628
Angnamtong View Opens Lakeside Resort in Laos
Angnamtong View Resort and Draft House Restaurant, about 90 minutes from Vientiane Capital in Meuang Feuang, held its soft opening in March 2022, and is already attracting guests to its villas, floating pavilions, and water sports on the Nam Tong Reservoir. The secluded yet easily accessible property is set to fully open before the end of this year.
The resort’s super-tall villas are perched on the hillside with stilts, and overlook the lake through floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors. The villas comfortably sleep two, but there is room to bring in extra beds for families. The interiors feature nicely varnished wood ceilings, walls, and floors, giving the room a modern, natural feel. Each villa opens to a balcony with ample seating and a net-like hammock that hangs from the base.
Below the villas, a long bamboo dock presents the resort’s focal point. It runs parallel to the shoreline, with more than 20 salas set on the lake for friends and families, who want lounge, eat, drink, or dive into the calm waters for a swim. Kids can safely cool off in small pools that extend out from the pavilions and dip into the reservoir like nets with floors.
The artificial archipelago also serves as the center for a variety water activities. Guests can paddle kayaks around the lake’s islets and peninsulas, before tying them off at their salas. Jet skiers can bring their water scooters to rip around on the smooth surface. Tubes are also available for just lazing on the lake in front of the pavilions.
The resort’s Draft House Restaurant offers a menu starring local Lao favorites including fish, laap (minced fish or pork salad), spicy somtam, and noodle and rice dishes. Guests can eat at the restaurant or have meals and snacks, along with cold soft drinks and beer, delivered to their pavilions on the dock. Sunset dinners at the salas are already a big hit.
Angnamtong View Resort presents a great overnight stopover on the overland route between Vientiane-Vang Vieng-Luang Prabang. Guests staying at Meuang Feuang’s Nam Lik Riverside accommodation will find the Angnamtong a pleasant daytime diversion. It’s off the beaten track, yet only about 90 minutes from the capital and less from Vang Vieng, making it perfect for day trippers.
For more information and to book a villa at Angnamtong View Resort, click here.
Tel/WhatsApp: +856 20 7717 5261
Travel Guide
Other attractions in Meuang Feuang include Ban Lao Meuang Feuang, Sinxayaram Temple, and Pha Luang Bat Cave.
How to Get to Angnamtong View Resort : From Vientiane and Vang Vieng, take the expressway to the Hin Hoeup exit and head west on the newly paved Nam Lik River Road to Ban Don, where you turn south on the Meuang Feuang District road. Continue for about 15 minutes to the righthand turn to the resort.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-angnamtong-view-opens-lakeside-resort-laos
Meuang Feuang Riverside Accommodation
Ban Lao Meuang Feuang
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 5247 3888
Facebook Page, click here
Meuang Feuang Ni Yome
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 5449 9298
Facebook Page: click here
VANGNAMTHIP
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 5478 7878, 5656 5611
Email: thip_lsa@yahoo.com
Tour Operators
Mina Travel
Website: www.minatravellaos.com
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 56 882 281
Email: somsak@minatravellaos.com
Asia Concierge
Website: www.asia-concierge.com
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 5858 9119
Email: thongsy@asia-concierge.com
Car Rental Services w/Driver Option
SP Car Rental Laos
Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/spcarrentallaos
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 5858 9119
Email: thongsy.pmj@gmail.com
VTE RENTACAR
Website: www.vterentacar.com
WhatsApp/Tel: +856 20 8881 0101
Top 10 Places to visit Vang Vieng, Laos
Re-Opening
Wattay Airport Shuttle Bus Service
From Central Bus Station – Wattai Airport
Bus Timetable: https://drive.google.com/…/1w2yxSDQWWT3FEydH5tDWfz1…
( +856) 20 5758 5851; 5277 1099
English: (+856)20 5988 0264
#Wattayairportshuttle
#ລົດເມນະຄອນຫຼວງວຽງຈັນ
#Vientianecitybus
source: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wearelao/permalink/1264772674206209/?mibextid=5eVWNK
Hiking & Camping at the Best Viewpoint in Laos: Pha Daeng Peak
Laos has planted its national flag atop Nong Khiaw’s Pha Daeng Peak, arguably the country’s #1 viewpoint. The summit is known for its morning “Sea Fog” and recent addition of tent camping about three hours north of Luang Prabang.
A dawn hike to the top takes climbers above the clouds that cling to the mountains in the horizon. The rising sun burns off the mist to reveal a 360-degree panorama starring the Nam Ou River snaking around Nong Khiaw Town.
The Lao flag stands on a boulder at the absolute pinnacle of Pha Daeng Peak, like the cherry on top of a viewpoint sundae. The scene begs visitors to step up for a portrait or selfie that guarantees a string of comments and emojis on your Facebook page.
The new camping option adds a mountain sunset for afternoon hikers, who can then catch the following morning’s Sea Fog show. Pitch a tent, have a cook out, sit around a campfire, and enjoy a night in nature.
The easy-to-follow, zig-zagging trail to the peak takes an hour or so, depending on the hiker’s pace in tackling the medium-grade trek. The well-signed path is constantly being improved by the community, who continually add ropes and steps to help climbers, especially during Green Season (July-October), when the trail can get a bit sloppy.
A wooden shelter greets the intrepid to Pha Daeng Peak, presenting a place to rest or bite into a snack and sip on the drink you brought along.
Tent camping began trending among Laotians during the 2020-2021 Lao Thiao Lao domestic tourism campaign. Since Laos reopened on 9 May 2022, local tour operators are adding tent camping at Pha Daeng Peak to their Luang Prabang itineraries for foreign tourists. To prevent crowding, campers need to book in advance.
Getting to Nong Khiaw from Luang Prabang
The 142-km drive in a van from Luang Prabang to Nong Khiaw takes about 3 hours. Transportation providers in Luang Prabang offer seats in vans and cars. Local busses are also available at the bus station. Departure times vary, but tend to leave in the early morning. You can also access Nong Khiaw from Muang Xai by car or motorbike.
Getting to Pha Daeng Viewpoint Entrance
The entrance to the Pha Daeng Viewpoint trail is located across the bridge from Nong Khiaw Town. The distance is less than 1 km. The entrance and ticket booth (LAK 20,000 as of 1 July) is on the left and presents several information panels about the hike and the community, who is the caretaker of the attraction and activity.
Preparing for the Hike
The trek takes a moderate amount of fitness. It is recommended to wear appropriate walking footwear, though locals make the hike in sandals. Visitors will need to bring their own food and drinks as none are yet available at the top. Campers will need to bring their own gear or join a group with a tour operator in Luang Prabang or Nong Khiaw Town. To book tent camping (maximum 10 PAX), WhatsApp/Tel +856 20 2202 2555.
Accommodation in Nong Khiaw Town
Mandala Ou Resort
Maison de Nong Khiaw Resort
Viewpoint Resort Nong Khiaw
Ou River House
Travel Businesses in Luang Prabang
To find a certified LaoSafe business in Luang Prabang, click on the links below.
Accommodation
Food & Beverage
Tour Guides
Drivers
How to Get to Luang Prabang
*Note: Schedules are constantly changing. Please directly contact the transportation providers for the most current schedule.
Flights from Vientiane
Lao Airlines: Daily flights as of 1 July 2022
Lao Skyway: Four flights per week as of 1 July 2022
Direct Flights from Bangkok
Lao Airlines: Three flights per week as of 1 July 2022
Thai AirAsia: Three flights per week as of 1 July 2022
Train from Vientiane
Lao-China Railway: Three daily departures
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-hiking-camping-best-viewpoint-laos-pha-daeng-peak
Tourism in Lao PDR
Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. Despite being one of the least developed countries in the region, Laos has seen a steady growth in its tourism industry in recent years.
Tourism in Laos is largely centered around its rich cultural and natural heritage. The country boasts of stunning landscapes, including the Mekong River, which runs through the heart of Laos, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang, a city with a well-preserved blend of traditional Lao and colonial French architecture.
Luang Prabang, the former royal capital of Laos, is a popular destination among tourists due to its stunning temples and monasteries, night markets, and traditional Lao cuisine. Visitors can also witness the daily alms-giving ceremony, where monks walk through the streets collecting food offerings from locals and tourists.
Another popular destination in Laos is Vang Vieng, a town situated on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains. Vang Vieng is known for its adventure activities, including cave exploration, kayaking, and tubing down the river.
Laos is also home to several national parks and reserves, such as the Phou Hin Poun National Biodiversity Conservation Area, which is home to rare animal species such as the saola and the Indochinese tiger.
Tourism in Laos is still relatively underdeveloped compared to other countries in the region, and the country has been working to improve its infrastructure and tourism services to attract more visitors. The government has also been promoting community-based tourism initiatives to help local communities benefit from tourism while preserving their cultural and natural heritage.
Overall, Laos offers a unique cultural and natural experience to tourists looking to explore Southeast Asia beyond the more popular destinations in the region.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-609
Coffee Culture of Luang prabang
Luang Prabang is an up-and-coming coffee capital.
Thanks to David the General Manager of Tiger Trail Travel, he has updated his blog of Coffee shops to visit.
Luang Prabang coffee spots as there are now over 24 places with the explosion of cafes in recent years.
the whole country is alive with new coffee shops and coffee producers, producing some excellent quality Beans.
and the export market is strong to date and being well known to date!
please follow David and the Blog on coffee in Luang Prabang well worth a Coffee hunt.
Made In Laos
Made in Laos, this is a brand in itself. wearelao.com have set up a listing page on the home page since we began with only a few.
interested parties, a shame in some ways as we support the Tourism industry and all that works side by side, items made in Laos is one of the
items people look for when they come on vacation or trips to Laos.
https://wearelao.com/made-laos where you can how it’s been set up; these listing connect back to your company directly.
the drop-down boxes cover each province giving those look at certain provinces and products can see what’s where and from who,
send us your information, we will need the following:
we offer this as a free listing and you need to create the above for us, if you can’t write in English ask a friend to do for you.
looking forward to hosting you for Free on wearelao.com Made in Laos
johnmorriswilliams11@gmail.com
+8562052252564 WhatsApp
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/edit-blog-entry-made-laos
Vang Vieng Adventure Capital of Lao PDR
As of 2023, Vang Vieng remains a popular tourist destination in Laos, known for its stunning natural scenery and adventure activities. The town is situated on the Nam Song River, surrounded by stunning limestone mountains, making it a picturesque location for outdoor activities such as kayaking, tubing, and rock climbing.
One of the most popular activities in Vang Vieng is tubing down the Nam Song River, where visitors can float down the river on an inner tube, taking in the stunning scenery along the way. The town also offers a range of adventure activities such as rock climbing, cave exploration, and hot air balloon rides, making it a popular destination for adrenaline junkies.
Aside from adventure activities, Vang Vieng also offers a range of cultural experiences. Visitors can explore local villages and learn about traditional Lao life, sample local cuisine, and visit temples and monasteries.
In recent years, Vang Vieng has been working to improve its infrastructure and tourism services to cater to the increasing number of visitors. The town now offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts, and has a variety of restaurants serving local and international cuisine.
Vang Vieng has also been working to promote sustainable tourism practices, with initiatives such as community-based tourism projects and eco-tourism activities that support local communities while preserving the natural environment.
Despite its popularity, Vang Vieng has managed to maintain its laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular destination for backpackers and travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Overall, Vang Vieng continues to be a popular destination for adventure and nature lovers, with a range of activities and experiences on offer to suit different interests and budgets.
source: https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-595
https://wearelao.com/blog/create-blog-entry-595