Peter Greenberg, Today's Travel Editor shares some of his thoughts on how the small South-East Asian nation of Laos may become the next hod travel destination for tourists as Matt Lauer presents Laos in his 3rd day of Where In The World Is Matt Lauer project.
Laos is a true magical mystery tour. Few Americans visit. Fewer understand it. However, more and more savvy travelers are slowly discovering this small country.
Not too long ago, Vietnam was like this — before diplomatic relations with the U.S. were restored in the 1990s. The same could be said for Cambodia. Both Vietnam and Cambodia have recently exploded as tourist destinations.
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When to go to Laos
Peak season is November through March. For the best weather, go between November and February, when it’s not too humid and rainy. Not surprisingly, that’s also the best time to go to Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. March to May is also good as it’s hot but still dry.Lodging In Laos
Luang Prabang can get crowded, so book early. Vientiane, Pak Se and vicinity won’t have that problem.Vientiane
Settha Palace Hotel: This is a luxury boutique hotel in a French colonial building. Rates start at $180 a night. Pang Kham Street, (856-21) 217581-2; www.setthapalace.comLao Plaza Hotel: This seven-floor hotel boasts its position as the “highest” hotel in Vientiane. Rates start at about $140 a night. 63 Samsenethai Road, (856 21) 218800-1; laoplazahotel.com
Don Chan Palace: This hotel is located along the Mekong River. Rates start at about $130 a night. Unit 6 Piawat Village, Sisatanak District, (856) (21) 244288; donchanpalacelaopdr.com
Luang Prabang
La Residence Phou Vao: This is a luxury spa hotel, and is part of the Orient Express Hotels, Trains & Cruises line, so it’s more expensive than others. Rates start at $210 night — but imagine what it would cost in Europe! Ban Xiengkeo, Khet Sangkalok (856 71) 253 851-7; grandluangprabang.comPhousi Hotel: This is a very basic but clean hotel with reasonable rates that range between $45-$72 a night. Setthathirath Road, (856+71) 212192; phousihotel.laopdr.com
Pakse
There aren’t any chains here and most hotels are very simple, small three-star accommodations.Champasak Palace Hotel: This place looks something like a massive wedding cake, but it has lovely views, clean rooms and plenty of space. Rates start at just about $40 a night, but those rooms aren’t in the palace themselves — to stay in the palace, you’re looking at about $45-$70 a night.
We wish Matt Lauer safe travels as he puts so much work in this touring project. Can you imagine in three days from New York to Buenos Aires, To Amsterdam and Laos. Can you guess where Matt in the world will be tomorrow?
