Classic Laos

All content by Intrepid

5 days (ex Vientiane)

Destinations visited: Laos, Vientiane, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$965

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Description

Experience the essence of Laos on this short but enlightening tour. Colonial mansions, tree-lined boulevards and gilded Buddhist temples impart a unique timelessness to charming Vientiane city. The former royal capital of Luang Prabang never fails to enchant visitors with its abundance of temples, faded French architecture and friendly people. Packed with sights, smells and wonderful cuisine, this Classic Laos tour is the ideal introduction to a land seemingly lost in time.

Highlights

Experience the charm of slow-paced Laos.
Take a private tour of Vientiane.
Explore the culture and cuisine of Luang Prabang.
Travel along the vibrant Mekong River.
Marvel at treasures in the Royal Palace Museum.
See thousands of Buddha images at Pak Ou Caves.

Itinerary

Day 1 Vientiane

The fascinating capital of Laos possesses a tropical Asian vibe laced with faded French-colonial charm. Weathered mansions, tree-lined boulevards and old temples impart an atmosphere of timelessness in Vientiane city. Take a private tour to see the thousands of Buddha images at Wat Si Saket and visit Pha That Luang, a symbol of Lao sovereignty.

Day 2 Luang Prabang

Travel from Vientiane to Luang Prabang by air. Once the heart and soul of the ancient kingdom of Laos, Luang Prabang is now a designated World Heritage-listed site. Visit the Royal Palace Museum, an eclectic blend of French and Lao architecture, where the royal family's quarters have remained untouched since 1975. See a collection of rare Buddha images made from crystal and gold as well as articles of royal regalia, including the king's own elephant saddle. Later, climb 328 steps to the Phu Si temple - topped with a glittering golden stupa - and be rewarded with panoramic views of Luang Prabang.

Day 3 Pak Ou Caves

Take a boat trip along the mighty Mekong River to the Pak Ou Caves, two sacred limestone caves filled with Buddha images of all styles and sizes. Each year, devoted pilgrims and villagers bring more treasures to the caves. Stop in at the silk-weaving village of Ban Phanom on return to Luang Prabang. Cap off a great day with a classic Lao cocktail on the veranda of the Villa Santi Hotel.

Days 4-5 Luang Prabang

Watch lines of saffron-robed Buddhist monks walk the narrow streets and laneways to receive alms from the faithful. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, Luang Prabang's most magnificent temple, or wander the banks of the Mekong River. The Classis Laos adventure ends in what is truly one of Asia's most delightful cities.

Group Size

N/A as this is an independent itinerary

Departure Guarantee

Departure is guaranteed

Accommodation

Hotel (4 nts)

Transport

Plane, Minibus, Boat

Budget

Allow USD $100 for meals not included.

Pricing Details

AUD $965.00 per person single share

AUD $645.00 per person twin share

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Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$965

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