Sabaidee - Lao lifestyle & travel magazine issue 30

Treasure Group Laos

For more information or reservations please contact:

Tel: (+856) 20 286 388 05 . E-mail: [email protected] . www.luangprabangelephantcamp.com

A sanctuary for the beautiful Asian Elephant!

Welcome to Luang Prabang Elephant Camp, a Sanctuary for the Beautiful Asian Elephants and a place

where you can come and have a life changing experience with these Magni�cent Mammals.

The Camp is o�cially open to the public since 25th January 2015 and located only 6 km from the

famous Kuang Sii waterfall. We are ready to provide you with an amazing Elephant experience for both

local and international guests.













Luang Prabang Elephant CampLuang Prabang Elephant Camp

Get a real taste of Luang PrabangGet a real taste of Luang Prabang

Our priority is

providing guests with the

best possible service

and unforgettable memories.

LUANG PRABANG

ELEPHANT CAMPLUANG PRABANG



ELEPHANT CAMP

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4

DIRECTOR’S

www. sabaidee.comFacebook.

com/sabaideemagazine

ຜູອຳນວຍການ

Sabaidee readers! It’s already a new month and we meet again. Time definitely flies by quickly. As always, we have been working hard to bring the latest and most exciting travel news to you. A lot has happened in Laos in the past month, so we have many unique travel suggestions to share with you.

In this issue we are very proud to present you with stories of handcrafted Lao products such as hand woven fabrics, silverwork, handicrafts, and wickerwork, just to name a few. The craftmanship shown in these famous and highly sought-after souvenirs reflects the high levels of skill and creativity of Lao artisans , which has been passed down from generation to generation.

We also have interesting stories from Xamneua city in Huapan province that are sure to inspire you to start planning your visit today. Finally, for our ASEAN column this month, we’re taking you to Singapore for a glimpse at the thriving city-state’s unique culture.

I hope you will all enjoy this issue of Sabaidee Lao. If you wish to get all the latest info about travel and lifestyle in Laos, just visit our website www.sabaidee-magazine.com or our Facebook fanpage www.facebook.com/sabaideemagazine .Finally, If you have any comments for us, feel free to contact our team at www.sabaidee-magazine.com.

Have a great and prosperous month,

Phanhlakhone SyboonheungThe Director

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volume 4 issue 30august 2015

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Handwoven TextilesHandwoven textiles are very beautiful. The colorful textiles of Laos have distinct characteristics that depend upon the region from which they come. These are very valuable and interesting souvenirs for both the giver and receiver. Handwoven textiles from Laos typically use silk or cotton, with production taking place in many small villages from the north, such as Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, and Xieng Khouang, all the way to Champasak in the south. Lao handwoven textiles are popularly made into Sinhs, which are long skirts worn by Lao women in their daily lives. See if you can spot this interesting traditional dress during your visit to Laos. In addition to Sinhs, handwoven textiles can be used as shoulder scarves, as well as shawls which can cover the shoulders, and are often embroidered magnificently. Cotton cloth is widely used as bedding, pillowcases, and tablecloths. Prominent places to purchase handwoven textiles include textile shops in Luang Prabang and, in Vientiane, at the Morning Market and various handicraft shops.

Tribal WaresA part of the Lao population is made up of tribal peoples, who live in various provinces from the north to the south These include the Hmong, Yao, Akha, Lahu, Lanten, and Khmu. These tribes still live traditional lifestyles. For this reason they retain various unique handicraft-making skills that have practical applications in their daily lives. Tribal wares are popular with visitors as they are easily found for sale, especially in villages frequented by tourists. Tribal crafts vary greatly and include clothing, hats, bags, metallic jewelry, jewelry decorated with seeds, textiles, tablecloths, bedclothes, coasters, and placemats. Each tribe produces items in different color schemes and designs. Places to purchase these products include the Night Market and handicraft shops in LuangPrabang, as well as the Morning Market and the souvenir kiosks behind That Luang in Vientiane.

Sabaidee Spotlight

SBD Guide To

Also Regulars12 What's On29 Coffee Highlight38 Wellness Directory54 See & Do Directory

28 Eat & Drink Directory31 Table Highlight46 Shop Directory56 Sleep Directory

Cover : Handwoven Lao sinh made of silk and cotton from Phia Ngam Village, Luang Namtha Province

Photo by Gaid Phitthayakornsilp

Weekend Escape

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Words & photos Michelle LuehmanASEAN CONNECT - SINGAPORE

Art and Cultural Identity Singapore

Art in Singapore is in a renaissance. Galvanized by a large insurgence of government funding and fueled by the worldwide success

of Chinese and Indian artists, Asia is now on the world stage as a producer and consumer of modern art. Art as an event, a pastime, living and an investment is rapidly developing in Singapore. Government funded art schools, Sota, art fairs, like Art Stage, and art such as Gillman Barracks are the newest additions to the fine art world. Nanyang College of the arts regularly hosts free art shows to showcase their young graduates and undergraduates.

What I love the most about art in Singapore is the absolutely outstanding display of pricely sculptures in public places

and walkways. Where else in the world would you have an open-spaced exhibition of Botero’s statues in an unguarded park. The two prime locations to look for great statues are Orchard Road and Boat Quay. Both of them have free standing Botero statues and great pieces from local artists.

The foyer of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel has some stunning modern pieces which add a dimension of quirkiness to this most interesting

new development. It is mandatory for new real estate investors to bring in major art pieces and make them accessible to the public. One of the benefits of a small well policed country is that the art is never vandalized. The St Regis Hotel

on Tanglin Rd, is another amazing site for sculptures and art works. Boasting Botero Statues and Picasso Artworks on display.

They join the performing arts as centre piece to the development of Singapore’s cultural platform. The Esplanade is a sweeping

modern forum for the performing arts, affectionately nicknamed the Durian, because of its shape and unusual roofline, and is a centre piece for the performing arts. This government-run complex is complimented by the addition of large theatre complexes under the Marina Bay Sands Umbrella. The majority of the works presented are visiting international performances, but Singapore does have a tradition of home grown theatre supported by grants, sponsorships and attendance.

Music, in the form of international artists and concerts, is a huge business in Singapore that

is heavily supported by ticket sales and sponsorship. Sponsorship and grants are vital for the security and profitability of all art events in Singapore. The mainstream events are heavily sponsored by the government and well attended. This has spurned on an art underground which is self-funding, self-perpetuating and building diversity in the art world. In many ways the development of the art subculture is a sign of maturity of the artistic culture.

Gillman Barracks

(Orchard Rd) (Boat Quay).

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WEEKEND ESCAPEWords & photos Gaid P. Kornsilapa

Get lost in wonderful Xamneua

The name Xamneau had been in my mind for years, but I’d never had the chance to visit. So when the opportunity presented itself, I wasted no time packing my suitcase and jumping on a flight to the beautiful city that is Xamneua. My flight from Vientiane with Lao Sky Way couldn’t have been more comfortable and I landed at Nathong Airport before I even knew it.

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SABAIDEE GUIDE TOWords & photos Michelle Lehman

Traditional Street Shopping

The traditional street seller, unique, old, and quickly passing, is a

rare site. Individual vendors and families alike buy early from the market or harvest produce themselves to sell on the street. Walking down every street, calling at every doorway and hoping someone will buy, they sell everything from food to home-made baskets and brooms. When you see how little they sell and the low prices they charge, you realize that the work is just enough to make money for the day.

ASEAN Connect

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contents

contributors

Christopher WhiteChris has been living and working throughout Asia for over ten years, the last three of which have been in Laos. He has been an English teacher, an urban explorer, a translator, a rat exterminator, a medical research subject, an exile stranded in several remote inhospitable locations, and now a copy editor. His degree in English, coupled with ten years of grading student essays, have fostered in him a deep contempt for wordiness and the passive voice, and he vows to ruthlessly cut out the non-essential in any text put in front of him in order to bring you, the reader, articles that you won’t want to put down.

Gaid KornsilapaGaid has been in the media industry since he graduated from Faculty of Art at Silpakorn University in Thailand in 1994. He was a part of the filmmaking crew in several household name movies, a screen writer for documentary programsand a columnist for a daily newspaper in Thailand. He is now a travel writer/ blogger at jiggotravel.com, photographer, a graphic designer, a translator, and travel editor for several publications.

HMLAO

Lao EditorKhamsouan Chanthalat

English EditorChristopher White

Sales & Marketing DirectorChayada Ariyaphoncharoen

Marketing ExecutiveSoudthidaphone Phetpada

ReporterThepphavongsone Bouapha Layout DesignKhamphanh Vongsa

/ Tel : + 856 21 454782, +856 20 5516 2440 / Mob: +856 20 5884 8376, +66 83 018 4076 ( Thai )/ Editor Email: [email protected]/ Sales Email: [email protected]

ConsultantsPattarapong KongvijitManachai InkaewDirectorPhanhlakhone Syboonheung

Editorial DirectorGaid Phitthayakornsilapa

Owner & PublisherTHM Lao Co., Ltd

Print by Lao Uniprint Press Co., Ltd

Michelle Luehman Michelle has spent the last 20 years living and working around the world, and most of that time has been spent around Asia. An avid observer of people and places, she has written extensively about life in Asia, both as a visitor and a resident. She has worked for lifestyle and travel magazines around the globe capturing the essence and flavour of life in each different locality.

Sabaidee Magazine Sales OfficeTHM Lao Co., Ltd 265 Nongbone Village, Saysettha, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R

issuu.com/sabaidee-magazineRead online at

Follow us at facebook.com/sabaidee-magazine

8

For more information or reservations please contact:

Tel: (+856) 30 924 8567 . Mobile: (+856) 20 2235 0157 . E-mail: [email protected] . www.namouriverside.com

Tranquil Luxury, authentic Laos, close to Luang PrabangNam Ou Riverside Hotel & Resort, situated 35 Km from Luang Prabang downtown, overlooks the Nam Ou River and

surrounding mountains, boasting a serene location, one of the most beautiful places to relax in Luang Prabang. It is a

place for travelers who need to discover Luang Prabang authenticity not far away from town in tranquil luxury.

Nam Ou RiversideNam Ou RiversideNam Ou RiversideNam Ou Riverside Hotel & ResortHotel & ResortNam Ou Riverside Hotel & Resort

Get a real taste of Luang PrabangGet a real taste of Luang PrabangGet a real taste of Luang PrabangGet a real taste of Luang PrabangGet a real taste of Luang PrabangGet a real taste of Luang Prabang

Treasure Group Laos

Our priority is providing guests with the best possible service

and unforgettable memories.

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WHAT’S ON

In Vietnam, A $20,000 Holiday For The Ultra-AffluentFor the remainder of 2015, the world’s most upscale travelers will have the opportunity to experience Vietnam in a way that’s never been possible.

The five luxury hotels that form the foundation of an exclusive new group, Quintessential Collection Vietnam, have devised the most discriminating holiday package the country has ever seen.

‘Quintessentially Vietnam’ is a US $19,358 promotion that runs through Dec. 22 and takes the 1 percent on a journey that includes everything from transfers in Bentleys and Rolls-Royces to portraits painted for the ages by a distinguished Vietnamese artist.

“It’s the vacation of a lifetime,” said Herbert Laubichler-Pichler, general manager of The Reverie Saigon, Quintessential Collection Vietnam’s sole property in Ho Chi Minh City.

Scheduled to officially open in September, the 286-room Reverie Saigon serves as the starting point for the countrywide trip, tailor-made for two.

Located in the sleek Times Square Building on vibrant Dong Khoi Street, the hotel offers a bevy of high-brow benefits, including airport transfers in a Rolls-Royce, two nights in a Panorama Suite with a bird’s-eye views of Vietnam’s commercial capital, a private dinner cruise along the Saigon River, and an afternoon with City Treasure Hunt’s Rosemary Cook, a highly informed expat who provides daylong tours that incorporate furniture, home

decor, antiques, and fashion.In central Vietnam, the acclaimed

Nam Hai has partnered with a local painter who specializes in portraits. Linh Ho will take a photo a guest sends to him two weeks prior to their arrival and finish the piece before they leave the beachfront resort, which features 100 sea-facing villas just outside the ancient trading port of Hoi An.

Other perks of The Nam Hai portion of the package include two nights in one of the hotel’s 40 Pool Villas, a guided tour of Hoi An, a romantic beach dinner for two, airport transfers in a BMW X5 and butler service.

Two hours north of The Nam Hai, in the imperial capital of Hue, La Residence Hotel & Spa has developed a program that pivots off the UNESCO World Heritage site’s culinary traditions and historic attractions.

In addition to two nights in the Resident’s Suite and guided tours of tombs, pagodas and the citadel that served as the seat of Vietnamese power from 1802-1945, ‘Quintessentially Vietnam’ guests will have the opportunity to spend time with scholar Phan Thuan An at his house, where a dinner fit for royalty awaits.

“Anyone can visit Hue, but to understand it and know it on any sort of meaningful level, you have to talk to the right people,” said Phan Trong Minh, La Residence’s general manager. “Mr. An is a fountain of knowledge, and the cooking techniques his wife uses are generations-old.”

From Hue, travelers venture to Hanoi, site of the century-old Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the grand dame of Vietnamese hotels. There, guests are treated to two nights in a Legendary Suite, a half-day city tour in a BMW 7 Series sedan and a dinner at any of the property’s three gourmet restaurants.

The final piece of the package is two nights aboard one of Paradise Cruises’ four Paradise Peak vessels, which ply the waters of Halong Bay, home to thousands of limestone karsts that form Vietnam’s most famous natural attraction.

Passengers make the three-hour journey between Hanoi and Halong Bay in the unrivaled comfort of a Bentley Flying Spur. Spa treatments, cave dinners and sightseeing from one of the boat’s eight stately suites head the list of memorable activities.

For more details on ‘Quintessentially Vietnam’ package inclusions and to book, contact [email protected].

1

2 3

5

1. The Reverie Saigon2. The Nam Hai

3. La Residence Hotel & Spa

4. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

5. Paradise Cruises

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WHAT’S ON

Quintessentially VietnamCost: $19,358Would you like to experience Vietnam in a way that’s never been possible? Now you can, thanks to ‘Quintessentially Vietnam,’ the most discriminating holiday package the country has ever seen. From transfers in Bentleys, BMWs and Rolls-Royces to portraits painted for the ages by a distinguished Vietnamese artist, this 10-night journey is the vacation of a lifetime.

Dates Available: Until Dec. 22, 2015

Trip Highlights:

2 nights in a preferred suite/villa at each Quintessential Collection Vietnam hotel/resort

an afternoon in Ho Chi Minh City with City Treasure Hunt’s Rosemary Cook, a highly informed expat who provides daylong tours that incorporate furniture, home decor, antiques, and fashion

a 140cm x 120cm portrait painted in Hoi An by talented artist Linh Ho, who specializes in ‘spontaneous realism’

an evening at scholar Phan Thuan An’s Hue home, where a dinner fit for royalty awaits

a guided tour of Hanoi in a BMW 7 Series sedan

a cave dinner in Halong Bay, Vietnam’s most famous natural attraction

For more information, contact [email protected]

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Ock Pop Tok releases its new Summer Collection focusing on a fusion between Lao and Japanese craft traditions in timeless shapes and styles. Featuring the colour of the year, “Marsala”, Ock Pop Tok’s new dresses and tops feature natural indigo tie-dye (Japanese Shibori) along with a softer and lighter organic cotton developed with a local village partner. To see more items and shop online, visit ockpoptok.com

NEW Summer Collection from Ock Pop Tok

DELIGHTFUL LAOS WITHLAO SKYWAY

DOMESTIC AIRLINES DOMESTIC AIRLINES

ROUTE MAP

VTE - Luang PrabangVTE - Oudomxay

VTE - PhongsalyVTE - Huaphan

VTE - Luang NamthaVTE - HuoiexayVTE - Xiang Khuang

LAO SKYWAY ]k;gfuovkdkf

7;k,i6hlbdmujgduod;jkdkogfuomk' mk'vkdkf

Head OfficeAsean road, T2, P.O. 6618 Tel/Fax: ( 856 - 21 ) 512 027Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R www.laoskyway.com

SENSATION BEYOND AIR TRAVEL

Delightful Lao with Lao Skyway

Eurocopter AS350 Squirrel

Vientiane from Above

Call Center: 1441Head offi ce Asean Road, P.O. 6618, Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.RTel / Fax : (+856 21) 512 027 Email : [email protected]

www.laoskyway.com

Vientiane Capital is a city which is growing very quickly. In recent

years many changes have taken place, and Vientiane is fast becoming a city of modern shopping centers, clean tree-lined boulevards, and towering bui ldings nearing completion. However, despite this recent atmosphere of modernity there remain many unique sites in Vientiane Capital that are refl ections of the city’s history and heritage. These include the Mekong River, Patouxay, and Pha That Luang, as well as the city’s plethora of stunning and well-preserved temples. City dwellers and tourists alike tend to get well-acquainted with the city’s streets as they explore its unique blend of the modern and traditional.

However, Delightful Lao in cooperation with Lao Skyway, now offers a new way to experience the unusual beauty of Vientiane Capital. Lao Skyway’s helicopter sightseeing tours offer locals and visitors alike a delightful and rarely seen bird’s-eye view of the Lao capital city.

As soon as Lao Skyway’s modern Eurocopter AS350 Squirrel lifts off from Wattay Airport the usual view of Vientiane Capital begins to change. The Eurocopter begins its ascent and veers towards the Mekong River. The fl ow of the great Mekong has brought sustenance for people on both of its banks for many years. From the sky, one gains a sense of the river’s vastness and magnifi cence with a clarity that is only possible from the elevated perspective of the Eurocopter. The Mekong is a natural and beautiful border between the Lao PDR and other neighboring countries. On the Lao side of the river the view from the Eurocopter offers a unique

Sightseeing Flight RoutesFrom Wattay Airport, fl y along the Mekong River past Chao Anouvong Park, Don Chan Palace Hotel, Patouxay, Lao-ITECC Shopping Center and then return to Wattay Airport.

Flight time: 15 minutes Price: 1,995,000 kip for maximum 5 persons (399,000 kip per person)

From Wattay Airport, past Chao Anouvong Park, Don Chan Palace Hotel, Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge and then return to Wattay Airport.


From Wattay Airport, past Chao Anouvong Park, Don Chan Palace Hotel, National University and then return to Wattay Airport.


From Wattay Airport, past Chao Anouvong Park, Don Chan Palace Hotel, Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, Lao-ITECC Shopping Center, the National Sports Complex, the National University and then return to Wattay Airport.

Flight time: 35 minutes Price: 5,995,000 kip for maximum 5 persons (1,199,000 kip per person)

For more information contact +(856 21) 513022 or all Lao Skyway ticketing offi ces, or call center number 1441.

glimpse of the majestic statue of the Lao hero and king, Chao Anouvong, standing prominently in the park named for him, gazing across the Mekong. As the Eurocopter continues its sweep along the promenade, one can see the Mekong’s continuing importance in the lives of the people of Vientiane as they engage in various riverside activities including aerobics, jogging, and riding bicycles together. The vantage that the Eurocopter offers of Mekong life is entertaining, but the tour is far from over!

Continuing on from Chao Anouvong Park, one gets a look at the face of the future of a developed Vientiane Capital. Don Chan Palace, the construction area of the nearly completed Vientiane New World Shopping Plaza, and Landmark Mekong Riverside Hotel are all on display. As the pilot circles around these impressive structures and back into the city the surreal vision of looking down on Lane Xang Avenue and Patouxay presents itself. Cars on Vientiane’s grand avenue look like nothing so much as toys. The tour concludes with a brief fl ight to Pha That Luang, an important religious monument and the heart and soul of the Lao people. From the heavenly vantage point of the Eurocopter, Pha That Luang’s golden stupa is really too beautiful for words.

Even on short trips of 15-20 minutes, seeing Vientiane Capital from the air creates a lasting impression. Lao Skyway has many routes available for you to choose from to create an exciting an unforgettable experience of Vientiane Capital. For more information contact Lao Skyway by dialing telephone number 1441.

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MADE IN

LAOS

SABAIDEE SPOTLIGHTWords & photos Editorial Team

Some ideas for souvenir gifts from Lao PDR.

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In addition to experiencing a great deal of excitement and enchantment at the kindness of the Lao people, tasting Lao food, and experiencing strange new things, traveling in Laos offers the opportunity to purchase one of a kind locally made products. These products are reasonably priced and are quite valuable as souvenirs or as gifts for friends and family back home. Sabaidee Lao is proud to present this guide for our readers, which details various interesting products and things to look out for at the markets.

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Handwoven TextilesHandwoven textiles are very beautiful. The colorful textiles of Laos have distinct characteristics that depend upon the region from which they come. These are very valuable and interesting souvenirs for both the giver and receiver. Handwoven textiles from Laos typically use silk or cotton, with production taking place in many small villages from the north, such as Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang, and Xieng Khouang, all the way to Champasak in the south. Lao handwoven textiles are popularly made into Sinhs, which are long skirts worn by Lao women in their daily lives. See if you can spot this interesting traditional dress during your visit to Laos. In addition to Sinhs, handwoven textiles can be used as shoulder scarves, as well as shawls which can cover the shoulders, and are often embroidered magnificently. Cotton cloth is widely used as bedding, pillowcases, and tablecloths. Prominent places to purchase handwoven textiles include textile shops in Luang Prabang and, in Vientiane, at the Morning Market and various handicraft shops.

19

Tribal WaresA part of the Lao population is made up of tribal peoples, who live in various provinces from the north to the south These include the Hmong, Yao, Akha, Lahu, Lanten, and Khmu. These tribes still live traditional lifestyles. For this reason they retain various unique handicraft-making skills that have practical applications in their daily lives. Tribal wares are popular with visitors as they are easily found for sale, especially in villages frequented by tourists. Tribal crafts vary greatly and include clothing, hats, bags, metallic jewelry, jewelry decorated with seeds, textiles, tablecloths, bedclothes, coasters, and placemats. Each tribe produces items in different color schemes and designs. Places to purchase these products include the Night Market and handicraft shops in LuangPrabang, as well as the Morning Market and the souvenir kiosks behind That Luang in Vientiane.

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SilverIt is well known Lao silversmiths have great skill in completing detailed work with the precious metal, fabricating beautiful traditional designs that have been passed down through generations. Silver jewelry reflects the former prosperity of the kingdom, which once traded with China, Tibet, and India. Silver is a symbol of wealth, especially silver jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings, which carry designs called “Lai Dok Pikoun,” which are popular among the Lao as they are associated with high social standing. One can see Lao people wearing silver jewelry at most every occasion, including festivals, weddings, parties, and evening events. As for the average tourist, silver jewelry from Laos is available in varying grades and prices that are based on the amount of silver content used in production. In addition to jewelry, products made from silver include utensils, kitchenware, Buddha statues, and decorative objects. Silver items can be purchased in most handicraft shops, such as those located in Ban Phanom in LuangPrabang and those at the Morning Market in Vientiane.

Bracelets made from UXO dropped during the war are sold in the market along the riverside in Vientiane. Sellers give the revenue to charitable organizations to help the disabled and families affected by war. Besides being a souvenir unique to Laos, the fact that proceeds from the purchase of jewelry crafted from recycled bombs goes to helping victims of those same bombs jam-packs these souvenir charms with concentrated Buddhist merit and good karma.

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Wooden HandicraftsHandicrafts made from wood have been popular in Laos for a long time and are created using local wisdom and exquisite skills passed down through the ages. Wooden handicrafts can be found in most markets, from large household items such as cabinets, tables, and beds, all the way to small household utensils and decorative items. Wooden handicraft production takes place in interesting locations throughout the country such as Ban Nong Beung in Champasak Province, which is a famous village known for carving wood into various shapes such as animals, people, and stories of local life. If you were to walk through the village, you would find most villagers steadfastly carving amongst their creations, all of which are for sale and reflect years of tradition. At the other end of the spectrum, if one enjoys modern works, Caruso Lao, with branches in both Luang Prabang and Vientiane, should not be missed. At Caruso Lao one can find wooden handicrafts to decorate the home that are much different than those found in the markets, as these items have been created by well trained designers and produced by skilled artisans.

(Caruso Lao)

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Bamboo BasketryBamboo is a plant that is found throughout the country. Most people are quite skilled at weaving bamboo into containers and utensils such as fans, baskets, bags, and kitchen implements, so that Lao products woven from bamboo are easily purchased as souvenirs in markets and handicraft shops. If one really wants to impress by bringing home a souvenir with a personal touch, it’s worth considering a bamboo weaving course at a handicraft store like Ock Pop Tok, which teaches bamboo weaving techniques. In a half-day course, one can weave a fan, or even a small basket.

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Mulberry PaperMulberry paper products from Laos are quite varied in type and form. They are created from the paper mulberry plant, and once the bark has been turned into paper it is tough and durable. Because of its durability it is widely used to create souvenirs and decorative items such as notebooks, lamps, umbrellas, and even paintings. Mulberry paper products can easily be purchased in tourist areas such as the Night Market in Luang Prabang and the Riverside Market in Vientiane.

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Lao FoodMany visitors travelling to Laos are enamored with the taste of Lao food and may wish to purchase some to take home as a souvenir. There are many kinds of Lao food pre-packaged in travel-ready containers. In the heritage city of Luang Prabang some famous foods are Jeo Bong (a sweet, spicy dip) and Khai Phene (a dried river weed snack), both of which can be bought in the Morning Market. In addition to these, there is a famous sweet called Khaonom Khi Meo, which, roughly translated, means “Cat Poo Snack.” But rest assured, this crispy and sweet rice flour based snack only resembles its namesake in form, not flavor and is a joy to chew on. Other souvenirs worth buying are Lao teas and coffees, which come from the cool and rainy Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos. Aside from the most popular and portable souvenirs, if you do not have far to travel, then fermented fish, pickled fish, white sausage, pork liver with herbs, and pork sausage are other Lao delicacies that many people back home will enjoy.

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Miscellaneous SouvenirsSouvenir shops in most tourist areas such as behind That Luang Stupa, the Riverside Market, and the Morning Marke in Vientiane, or the Night Market in LuangPrabang, offer a variety of affordable souvenirs. Products that sell well are t-shirts printed with symbols of Laos and the Lao language. One t-shirt which is very popular simply carries the Lao greeting “Sabaidee”. Miscellaneous souvenirs such as keychains, nail clippers, magnets, and postcards are also popular items.

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EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

Acqua 007/078 Rue Francois Nginn acqua.laos 020 2811 7888

Ai Capone 8 Rue Francois Ngin, Ban Mixai aicaponelaospdr 020 5991 0888

Amphone Restaurant 37 Soi Wat Xieng Gneun,

Setthathirath Road amphonelao 021-212 489/ 020-7785 7647

Aria Italian Culinary Arts 8 Rue Francois Nginn, Ban Mixai aria.mixai.restaurant 021 222 589

Bamboo House 23 Singha Road, Nongbone Village 021 453-668

Ban Gai Tex Mex Cantina Sokpalaung Road BanGaiHouseOfChickenh 020 9825 6654

Ban Lao Beer Garden Rue Francois Ngin 021 212 930

Begonia Café Soi 4 off Nongbone road Begonia-cafe 020 5555 5082

Bistro 22 22 Samsenthai Road, Ban Khaonyot benonicafe 021 214 129

Bor Pen Yang Fa Ngum Road, Wat Chanh Bor Pen Yang restaurant 020 5580 8281

Black Canyon Coffee - Chao Anu BranchBlack Canyon Coffee - That Luang Branch

blackcanyoncoffee.com 0 20 77 442 643

Dairy Queen Quay Fa Ngum DairyQueenLaos 021 255 380

Café Nomad 1-342 Dongpalanthong, Sisattanak cafenomad.lao 020 5434 9977

Chanmaly’s Café 278 Sokpaluang Road, Thongkang Village chanmalyrestaurant 020 58 346 410

Common Grounds Café and Bakery

Rue Chao Anou commongroundslaos 021 255 057

Coffee Today Ban Phonsinuoan, Sisattanak CoffeeToday 030 5058123

Chokdee Café 32/4 Fa Ngum Road, Mekong riverside www.chokdeecafe.com 020 5610 3434

Couleur d’Asie Nokèokoummane Road CouleurdAsie 021 223 008

Chan Coffee 189 Setthatirath Road, Mixay Village ChanCoffeeLaos 020 2398 6066, 020 5222 4665

Dhaka Restaurant Beside Namphu 021 254 858

Douang Deuane Restaurant & Wine Bar

Beside Namphu 021 254 858

Fuji Japanese Restaurant # 1 Best Western Hotel 021 254 722

Fuji Japanese Restaurant # 2 Nongbone Village 021 454 782

Fujiwara Restaurant Luang Prabang Road Fujiwara-Restaurant 020 77 773 177

I-Beam Bar 88 Setthathirath Road ibeamvientiane 020 5610 3434

Jamil Zahid Restaurant Off Khounboulom Road, Ban Haysok JamilZahidRestaurant 020 5650 2455

Kung’s Café Lao Off Rue Simeuang, Piawat Village KungsCafeLao 021 219 101

Jazzy Brick Setthathirath Road jazzybricklao 021 212 489

Joma Bakery Café - Nam PhouJoma Bakery Café - That LuangJoma Bakery Café - Phonthan

joma.biz 020-2204-4555

Kiriya Café Setthathirath Road www.cafelao.com 020 5855 5725

Khop Chai Deu 54 Setthathirath Road KhopChaiDeu 021 251 564

Kong View Restaurant 183 Souphanouvong Road www.kongview.com 021 520 522

ADVERTISE

HERECALL SABAIDEE MAGAZINETel: 021 454 782Mob: 020 5884 8376Email: [email protected]

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EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

Le Banneton Norkeokoummane Road, Ban Mixai Le-Banneton 021 217 321

L’Adresse de Tinay Wat Ongteu, Setthathirath Road ladressedetinay.com 021 215 506

L’alsace Setthathirath Road L’alsace 020 9806 2295

SUMIBIYAKI TORISHIGE RESTAURANT

Unit22, No333/02, Nongbone Village,Near Janpanese Embassy,

Saysettha, Vientane

T: 020 97 575 700Wed - Mon 5:30pm - 11:00pm / Mon - Close

L’Atmosphere Simeuang Road, Ban Simeuang L’Atmosphère 020 7715 8813

L’Opera Namphou Area Lopera-Italian-Restaurant-Vientiane 021 215 099

La Belle Epoque Lounge Bar Settha Palace Hotel, Pang Kham Road setthapalace.com/dining/belle-epoque-bar 021 217 581

La Bodega 164, Unit 15 Sibouaban Road 021 264 187

La Cave Des Chateaux Fountain Area (Nam Phu) La-Cave-Des-Chateaux 021 212192

La Cage du Coq Hengbounnoy Road, Ban Haysok La-Cage-Du-Coq-Ban-Haysok 020 54 676 065

La Signature Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha ansarahotel.com 021 213 514

La Scala Italian Restaurant Ban Bounkagnom,Thadeua Rd www.lascalalao.com 021 931169

Le Trio Coffee Setthathirath Road letriocoffee 020 2255 3552

Naked Espresso Dongpalan Road nakedespresso.net 021 454 631

Masa Spoon Café N’ Bistro Rue Dongpalanthong, Phonesinuan 021 261 634

Le Silapa Setthathirath Road LeSilapaVientiane 021 219 689

Le Comptoir 8,rue Francois Ngin lecomptoirdevientiane 021 254 013

Lao Kitchen Rue Hengboun (opposite KP Hotel) lao-kitchen.com 021 254 332

Merci Restaurant Souphanouvong Road 020 77 456 664

Makphet 78 Ban Inpeng, Vat Chanh Tha makphet-restaurant.org 021 260 587

Sengtawan Rooftop Bar Ban Sithan Neua www.sengtawan.com 021 219 362

Sputnik Burger Setthathirath Road SputnikBurger 0 30 93 76 504

Sticky Fingers 1/3 Francois Nginn Road StickyFingersLaos 021 215 972

Ray’s Grille 17/1 Sihom raysgrilleLaopdr 20 58 966 866

Paris Cocktail Beung Ka-nyong, Tha Deua road Paris-Cocktail 020 78 111 008

Soul Kitchen Thadeua Road 143 (KM 0.5) 020 5612 0804

Pimenton Rue Nokeoukoumane pimentonrestaurant-vte.com 021 215 506

Sumibiyaki Torishige Nongbone Village sumibiyakitorishige 020 9757 5700

Senglao Café Ban Naxay 030 5880588

Vegetarian in the Golden Age Saylom Road 020 5550 5305.

Xang Khoo Restaurant 68 Pangkham Road xang-khoo-restaurant 021 219 314

Xayoh Grill House Samsenthai Road xayohgrillhouse 021 261 777

The Spirit House Fa Ngum Road, Baan Seetarn Neua thespirithouselaos.com 021 243 795

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LUANG PRABANG

Café Toui Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong cafetoui.com 020 5657 6763

Aussie Sports Bar Ban Aham, Sisouphan Road aussiesportsbarlaos.com 020 22 425 499

Bamboo Tree Soukhaserm Road, Nam Khan riverside https://goo.gl/6zQ1RY 071 254 670

Big Tree Café 46 Ban Vat Nong bigtreecafe.com 020 77776748

Blue Lagoon Restaurant Ban Choumkhong blue-lagoon-cafe.com 020 5925 2525

Coconut Garden Sisavangvong Road elephant-restau.com/coconutgarden 071 252 482

Couleur Café & Restaurant 86/04 Ban Vat Sene 020 2388 1771

Chez Matt Ban Vat Sene 020 77 77 94 97

Dao Coffee Ban Viengkeo Dao-Coffee-Luang-Prabang 071 214 444

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

Icon Klub Siphouttabath Road, Ban Xiengmouan iconklub.com 071 254 905

Dyen Sabai Restaurant & Bar Ban Phan Louang Dyensabai 020 55 104 817

Delilah’s Place Chao Fa Ngum Road 071 254 988

Indigo Café Sisavangvong Road, Pakham Village indigohouse.la 071 212 264

Hive Bar & Restaurant 5 Kingkitsarat Road, Ban Aphay hivebarlaos.com 020 59 995 370

Joma Bakery Café - Hua XiengJoma Bakery Café - Nam Khan

joma.biz 071-260-920

Joys Restaurant Phothisalath Road 020 5516 6575

Khaiphaen 100 Sisavang Vatana Road, Ban Wat Nong 030 51 55 221

Khmu Sisavangvong Road 071 212 092

La Casa Lao 66/6, Ban Xiengmouane Road 020 22 8 12 64

La Belle Epoque 4-5 Ban Phonepheng luangsayresidence.com 071 260 891

Lao Indoor Golf “N” Café Phu Vao (Opposite BCEL Bank) laoindoorgolf.com 071 253 491-2

Lao Lao Garden Phousi Road, Ban Aphay 020-7777-4414

Pizza Phan Luang Phan Luang Village 020 56 922 529

Opera House Bar Sakkarine Road operahouseluangprabang.com 071 211 040

Nava Mekong 44/3 Ban Vat Nong, Khem Khong Road villa-maly.com/Dining 020 59 285 555

Namkhong Café Bldg. 03 Choumkhong Unit 52 071 213 049

Redbul Bar Phousi Road redbulbarluangprabang.com

Phou Savanh Restaurant La Residence Phou Vao laresidencephouvao 071 212 194

Mango Garden Restaurant Sisavangvong Road 020 5620 3666

Les 3 Nagas Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong 3-nagas.com 071 253 888

Le Café Ban Vat Sene Sakarine Road elephant-restau.com/cafebanvatsene 071 252 482,

Luang Prabang Bakery Choumkong Village, Sisavangvong Rd luangprabang-bakery-guesthouse.com 071 252 499

Rosella Fusion Restaurant Kingkitsarat Road 020 77 775 753

Sonphao No. 59, Xatikhoumman Road 071 253 489

Same Same Restaurant 72/04 Ban Pakham 020 5953 8536

Saffron Caffe PO Box 494, Luang Prabang saffroncoffee.com 071 254 254

Sit & Relax Riverside Muang Nga Village 020 59 595 951

Salt ‘n’ Pepper Sakkaline Road 020 5552 9381

Restaurant L’Elephant Kounxoa Road, Ban Vat Nong elephant-restau.com 071 252 482

Tamnak Lao Restaurant Sakarinne Road tamnaklao.net 071 212 239

Tamarind Restaurant Ban Wat Sene, Nam Khan River tamarindlaos.com 071 213 128

Tangor House 63/3 Rue Susavangvong letangor.com 020 9560 7262

The Apsara Restaurant Kingkitsarath Rd, Ban Wat Sene theapsara.com/bar-restaurant 071 254 670

The House Restaurant & Belgian Beer Bar

Phousi Road 10, Aphai Village thehouselaos.com 071 255 021

Viewpoint Café and Restaurant Ban Xieng Thong mekongriverview.com/en/cafe-restaurant.html 071 254 900

The Terrace 93 Unit 03 Phoneheuang Village burasariheritage.com 071 255 031

The Verandah 59/4 Soukkaseum Road, Ban Vatsene 071213 120

Xiengmuan Garden Restaurant 35 Baan Xiengmuan, Sisavangvong Road 071 252 583

Yongkhoune Restaurant Sakkaline Road 071 212 342

The Silk Road Café Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre, Ban Saylom ockpoptok.com 071 212 597

Utopia Ban Aphay utopialuangprabang.com 020 2388 1771

The balcony by Lanith Ban Khoi - Nam Dong River lanith.com 071 211 040

The Bellerive Terrace 99 Baan Phonehueang, Riverfront athebellerive.com/restaurant.htm 071 260 733

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If you’re tired or feeling sleepy during the working day, try a visit to “Dee Café”, a newly opened small coffee shop located adjacent to Data Com’s building at Phonesay Village. Relax and refresh yourself with a cup of good coffee, or a chat with friends in a modern, airy café.

Vimala Dejvongsa, the owner, along with her partners, Kingkeo Doungsavanh and Peta McLean, explains her concept for the café is to create an environment where customers can sit in comfort while enjoying quality coffee and beverages with simple foods. Her intention is to ensure that all of the café’s guests have a relaxing experience.

When it comes to the coffee served at the cafe, Vimala reveals that she orders Lao Arabica

grown at Bolaven Plateau, in small quantities - just enough coffee to last two or three weeks- in order to maintain maximum freshness and a robust flavour and scent. Espresso made with her Italian machine will result in a particularly aromatic taste. In addition to coffee Dee Café also serves various other drinks, including smoothies and Italian sodas, which keep one cool and refreshed on hot days, along with a small selection of baked goods and sandwiches.

In the cafe, there is also a small bookshelf that showcases Lao books written by the family members of Vimala, many of whom are professional writers of Lao PDR. All books are available to buy or to read in the shop.

Dee CaféData Com Building, Phonesay Village, Nongbone Road (Corner of Nehru Street) 030 5788941

Good Coffee and Friendly Atmosphere at Dee Café

Peta McLean and Vimala Dejvongsa

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SAVANNAKHET

CHAMPASAK

Lin’s Café Latsaphanit Rd., Xaiyaphoum Village lincafe.netau.net 020 9988 1630

Café Chai Dee Unit 01, Lattanalansy, Thai village cafechaidee.com 030 500 3336

Savan Coffee Km.6, No. 9 Road,Phonsavang Neu Village 020 55 540 226

Savan I Lao Restaurant Lat Sa Von Seuk Road 020 55 891 006

Dok Mai Lao Caffe Restaurant Rue 24, 91 Dok-mai-lao-caffe-restaurant 020 58 447 879

Nadao No. 38 Road, Corner of Road 16W 020 5550 4884

Le Panorama 5 Bane Watlouang, Pakse Hotel hotelpakse.com 031 21 21 31

Sinouk Coffee Ban Lakmuang sinouk-cafe.com 031 214 716

Vida Bakery Cafe Building 188, Rd 12, Ban Thaluang 020 29 256 632

Mekong Lanxang No 11th Road, Mekong Riverfront 031 254 411

Katuad Coffee Corner of No 24 and 13 South Rd Katuad-Coffee 020 7799 8777

Jinya Japanese Restaurant No 10th Road 030 986 3785

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS

HERECALL SABAIDEE MAGAZINE

Tel: 021 454 782Mob: 020 5884 8376Email: [email protected]

31

Many people have frequented and eaten food at popular Smile Dee Restaurant by the Mekong River. But now the restaurant, which previously served only Lao – Thai cuisine, has added some new French dishes to its menu, giving guests a taste of authentic, carefully prepared, and scrumptious French food.

Rattana Viravong, the new owner who took over the restaurant from her brother, lived in France for over ten years as a caterer. This experience allowed her to hone her skills and gain an expertise in preparing both French and Lao cuisine. Since her move to Laos, Rattana’s goal has been to introduce a variety of authentic French food to the Lao people, and to this end the dishes on her French menu vary each day. All French cuisine served in the restaurant, from bread to various food specialties, are prepared entirely in the restaurant’s modern kitchen with imported raw materials and spices from France.

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Recommended foods on the tantalizing menu are Bruschetta & Rillette de Canard, T - bone steak, Steamed Salmon Curry in Coconut Fruit, Smile Dee Shrimp Spring Roll, Lamb Rib Eye Steak, Beef Bourguignon Language, and Shrimp Wrapped with Salmon. To get a feel for the atmosphere of France, do not forget to try beer the French way – in up to ten glasses served in a one meter long wooden box.

In addition to offering pleasures of the gastronomic variety, the restaurant also has live music to entertain guests every Friday. Guests can even take the stage themselves to sing their favourite karaoke numbers.

Further services include private tables inside a French-style house that can accommodate parties of up to 50 people. And last but not least, Rattana also brings her experience as a caterer to Smile Dee Restaurant, which is equipped to provide all the culinary needs of your next party or event.

Mon - Sat16:30 – 23:30

Savour Authentic French Cuisine at Rattana’s Smile Dee

021 242269020 78579093

Rattana’s Smile Dee Restaurant34 Fah Ngum Rd., Sithan Nua Village, Sikhottabong, Vientiane Capital

32

SABAIDEE GUIDE TOWords & photos Michelle Luehman

33

Traditional Street Shopping

The traditional street seller, unique, old, and quickly passing, is a

rare site. Individual vendors and families alike buy early from the market or harvest produce themselves to sell on the street. Walking down every street, calling at every doorway and hoping someone will buy, they sell everything from food to home-made baskets and brooms. When you see how little they sell and the low prices they charge, you realize that the work is just enough to make money for the day.

35

The vendors are mostly women who sell what the family has made that morning or the night before. For breakfast they sell delicious packets of red glutinous rice boiled in coconut milk and garnished with desiccated coconut and sugar. For dinner, on offer are bar-b-que fish on bamboo skewers, which look like large bamboo clothes pegs, and Mekong seaweed, to be fried or grilled for dipping into a sauce, or as an accompaniment to a glass of wine and fresh fruit. Fresh honey comb, a rare delicacy harvested from the forest, is also for sale. All of the produce, except for the fish, is seasonal. One of the pleasures of

and money and purchase change hands. At the full moon, new moon, Buddha days or special occasions you see the vendors with baskets of beautiful bamboo, and marigold or jasmine sculptures which can be bought and taken to the temple as an offering to the Buddha. Marigolds are the Asian symbol of prosperity. The beautiful golden flower reminds us of gold and the bamboo leaf is free, sturdy and a great contrast to the golden colour. You can buy these offerings in the street or at the market. At 5000 kip these small marigold statues are a lovely way to join in the Lao Buddhist Tradition.

food in Laos, is that it changes with the seasons. Vendors stroll the streets, with two light bamboo baskets suspended from a thick piece of shaped bamboo, weathered and smooth from continual use and rubbing on the shoulder. In each basket is a variety of items, and you are welcome to sample the produce to make sure it is fresh. The vendors call out at each door, letting you know what they have to sell, and when you indicate that you are interested they move the baskets from their shoulders to the ground. You can watch buyers, inspect the items, carefully selecting their purchases. After some bargaining the item is weighed, wrapped

One of the pleasures of food in Laos, is that it changes with the seasons

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WELLNESS DIRECTORY

Adina Spa 170 Phonsaath, Kaysone Road www.adinaspalao.com 021 414 138

Champa Spa & Massage Corner of Fa Ngum and Pangkham Road www.champaspa.com 021 251 926

Dalah Spa 140 Ban Phonsavanh Tai,

Hom 3, Khouvieng Road dalah.spa 021 285 125

Alliance International Medical Center

Souphanuvong Road, Ban Wattayyaithong www.aimclao.com 021 513 095

Fit Dee - Fitness for Women FitDee 021 419 126 - 020 5568 5153

Giriya Spa Rashmi’s Hotel, Thadeua Road Km3 www.rashmishotel.com 021 315 088

Green Park Champa Lao Spa Green Park Hotel, 12 Khouvieng Road www.greenparkvientiane.com 021 263 064

Goodlife Sports Complex Luangprabang Road, Phosy Village goodlifelaos 020 29 292 906

Healing Hands Massage & Spa Don Chan Palace Hotel www.donchanpalacelaopdr.com 021 244 288

Herbal Sauna Chao Anou Road 020 5504 5655

LV City Massage and Spa 149 T2 (Nong Douang) Road www.lvcitylaos.com 030 525 6699

LPH Fitness Club Lao Plaza Hotel, Samsenethai Road www.laoplazahotel.com 021 218 800-1

Lao Japan Budo Center Kounboulom Road 021 265 290

Mandarina Body & Soul Spa Pangkham Road, near Nam Phu 021 223 857

Manee Spa Hom 10, Ban ThongKang pages/Manee-Spa/296630677103440 021 353 207

Mani Beauty & Spa Mani-Beauty-Spa 020 55 612 650

Nirvana Spa Pangkham Road, facing Lao Plaza Hotel www.nirvana-spa-laos.com 021 222 936

New Arena Laos Ban Thadua NewArenaLaos 021 480 913

Papaya Spa Phanya Sy Road www.papayaspa.com 021 216 550

White Lotus Massage & Yoga Pangkham Road, close to Nam Phu 021 217 492

Vientiane Yoga Studio Sokphaluang Road 020 91 943 770

Sengdara Fitness Centre Dongpalan Road www.sengdarafi tness.com 021 452 159

The Olympic Fitness Rashmi’s The Plaza, Thadeua Road www.rashmishotel.com 021 315 088

Sarila Spa Salana Boutique Hotel, Chao Anou Road www.salanaboutique.com 021 254 254

LUANG PRABANGAyu Spa

Kounxaou Road, Ban Phoneheung www.xiengthongpalace.com 071 213 200

Dhammada Massage Oasis Luang Prabang Oasis Hotel www.luangprabangoasis.com luangprabangoasis 071 212 642

M.K. Wellness Centre 77 M. 4 Ouparach Buakhum Road,

Ban That Luang 030 777 1082

Kiridara Spa 22/13 North Road, Ban Naviengkham www.snhcollection.com/kiridara 071 261 888

Lao Red Cross Opposite Vat Visoun 071 252 856

Luang Prabang Yoga luangprabangyoga.org 020 7777 9966

Sanctuary Massage Sanctuary Hotel, Kitsalat Road 071 213 777

L’hibiscus Spa 45 Sakhaline Road 030 923 5079

The Spa Garden Ban Phonheuang www.spagardenlpb.com 071 212325

The Angsana Spa Luangprabang

Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel www.angsana.com

www.banyantree.com 071 254609

Spa by Burasari Nam Khan River Road, Ban Khili 071 255 031

DHAMMADA MASSAGE OASISTropical Oasis Park, Ban Vixoun, Setthathirath Road, Luang PrabangTel: 071 212 642, 071 252 933 Fax: 071 212 818Email: [email protected]

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

EDITOR’S PICKS

Dhammada Massage Oasis

EDITOR’S PICKS

luangprabangoasisEDITOR’S PICKS

38

WEEKEND ESCAPEWords & photos Gaid P. Kornsilapa

Get lost in wonderful Xamneua

39

The name Xamneau had been in my mind for years, but I’d never had the chance to visit. So when the opportunity presented itself, I wasted no time packing my suitcase and jumping on a flight to the beautiful city that is Xamneua. My flight from Vientiane with Lao Sky Way couldn’t have been more comfortable and I landed at Nathong Airport before I even knew it.

41

Upon arrival, I checked into Xamneua Hotel, located along the Xam river, where the famous Keo Lak Muang monument was visible from my room. Keo Lak Muang has become the city’s landmark and is recognized by everyone in town. When the breeze in the air became cooler and the sun faded away, I went to the intersection to see this monument, which is made up of four concrete pillars in a triangular configuration supporting a shiny crystal ball at the apex. At a nearby wall, I also spotted a frieze depicting the battle between Lao and American troops. However, my photo-op was cut short However, my approaching dark clouds, so I decided to venture further into the city.

After a short walk, I arrived at the city center where the stadium and Huapan friendship park, Kwuang Nin, a public park, are located. The sight of young kids playing football and people running along the park is a regular scene here in the evening. In every corner of the park one can see many statues of people from various tribes dressed up in their respective traditional dress. These statues communicate that Huapan is made up of more than 20 ethnic groups, including Lao Loum, Lao Hmong, Kha Mu, Tai Lue, Tai Neua, Tai Dam, Tai Daeng, Tai Khao, Tai Noi, and many more. My next destination was Si Boun Heuang Xay Nha Ram Temple, which sits atop a hill. Once I has made the climb up to the temple, I was rewarded with a wonderful spot where I could take in all the beauty the town has to offer, from its colorful houses to its breathtaking sunset. Before making my way down, I made sure to pay a visit inside the temple and pray for God’s blessing.

44

The first thing that came to my mind the next day was that in the early hours there is a morning market. People’s lifestyle, social well-being, and cultural vitality are all reflected in morning markets such as the one in this town. I decided to walk to the morning market using the road along the Xam River, which was a few hundred meters away from my hotel. As soon as I arrived, the quiet, dull state that I saw yesterday evening was nowhere to be found. Instead, it was replaced with noises and people, and full of life and energy.

Xamneua Market is divided into many zones. The household products zone is open all day, while the zone that sells fresh produce opens from the morning and gradually closes down by the afternoon. I went straight to the fresh produce zone, because looking at the local vegetables and people in the market are my favourite market activities. Huapan is home to many ethnic minorities and even though they don't all dress to the nines when they come to the market, one can differentiate between the different ethnic groups by noticing subtle clues, from the way they use fabrics to drape their hair similar to a turban, to the print

45

of their dress, or even the type of baskets or bags they carry to the market.

Inside the fresh produce zone there are many food stalls where one can find well-known dishes similar to markets anywhere in Laos. One example is a warm salad, made of boiled vegetables seasoned with a special sauce, the flavor of which differs from place to place as each region has its own ingredients. Other dishes available include BBQ, Mok, which is steamed food wrapped in banana leaves, and all sorts of fried food, from sausages to beans, with some being fried right at the market.

46

In addition, the area surrounding the market consists of many stalls selling fruits, vegetables and all kinds of locally grown agricultural products. Somehow, this area looks even livelier than inside the market itself. What caught my eye the most was the sight of a 10 year old boy selling bamboo shoots while carrying his young brother, who could not have been older than a few months, on his back. It looked to me that he was helping his parents by trying to work for a living. That was the most touching moment for me that day.

47

(www.laoskyway.com)

To get to Xamneua, besides flying with Lao Sky Way(www.laoskyway.com), one can ride a public bus from Vientiane, which will take 18 hours over a 700-KM journey. The sleeping VIP type bus from the North terminal departs at 14:00 while the normal one leaves the capital at 17:00.

48

SHOP DIRECTORY

Carol Cassidy Textiles Noekummane Rd, Ban Mixay www.laotextiles.com 0 21 212 123

Caruso Lao 8 Fa Ngum Road carusolao.com 021 223 644

Elegant Boutique No. 103, Pangkham Street 021 215 437

Finer Things 34/03 Francois Ngin Rd www.laosilkfi nerthings.com 021 254 181

Lao Fine Arts Handicraft Jewellry

550/01 Thatluang Tai Village 020 5542 6993

Ministry of Silk 99/01 Nam Phou Square www.ministryofsilk.com 021 213 776

Mixay Art of Mekong 053/55 Nokeokhuman Street, Ban Mixay www.artofmekong.com 021-216 592

Kanchana Boutique 102 Chanthakoummane Rd 021 213 467

Indigo Lao Rue François Ngin, Ban Mixay www.indigolao.com 021 215 469

Night Market Mekong riverfront, Fa ngum Rd Sunset - 9pm, 7 days

Monument Books Nokeokoummane Rd www.monument-books.com 021 243 708

Mulberries Shop Nokeokoummane Road, Mixai Village www.mulberries.org 021 241 217, 021 263 371

T’Shop Lai Gallery Vat Inpeng Street www.artisanslao.com 021 223 178

Saoban Crafts 97/1 Chao Anou Road www.saobancrafts.com 020 7783 9152

Satri Lao Silk 79/4 Setthathirath Road www.satrilao.laopdr.com 021 219 295

Oriental Bookshop 121 Chao Anou Rd 021 215 352

Treasures of Asia 86/7 Setthathirath Rd 021 222 236

LUANG PRABANGCama Crafts

Ounkham Rd, Ban Wath Nong www.camacrafts.org 071 254 594

Caruso Lao 99/01 Nam Phou Square www.carusolao.com 071 254 574

L’Etranger Books & Tea Phousi Rd, Ban Aphay 071 212 880

Garden of Eden Shop Phanluang Village 071 410 456

Gallery Asiama Vat Nong House No. 41 www.asiama.fr

Kopnoi Ban Aphay kopnoi.com 071 260 248

Kin Thong Lao Silk 48/3 Sakkaline Road 020 5554 6184

Dara Market Kingkitsarath Rd

Ma Te Sai Sisangvong Rd, Ban Xieng Mouane www.matesai.com 071 260 654

Phosi Market Photisalath Rd 7am - 5pm

Night Market SIsangvong Rd 5pm - 11pm

TAEC Boutique Kitsalat Rd, Ban Khamyong www.taeclaos.org 071 253 364

Passa Paa 79 Ban Vat Sene www.passa-paa.com 020 5541 1244

Ock Pop Tok Sakkarine Rd, Ban Vat Sene www.ockpoptok.com 071 253 219

Naga Creations Savangvong Road 020 7777 5005

Pathana Boupha Antique House

26/2 Ban Visoun 071 212 262

THM Lao was o� cially established in 2010 with a mission of providing e� ective consulting services for management and marketing communications especially to businesses in the tourism and lifestyle industry. We work closely with the management teams of each business to make a plan for achieving their speci� c goals and discovering additional goals to gain market growth.

YOUR MEDIASOLUTIONS

[email protected] Lao Co., Ltd.265 Nongbone Village, Saysettha, Vientiane, Lao PDR

+856-21-454782+856 20 5884 8376

HMLAO

50

Words & photos Michelle LuehmanASEAN CONNECT - SINGAPORE

Art and Cultural Identity Singapore

Gillman Barracks

(Orchard Rd) (Boat Quay).

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Art in Singapore is in a renaissance. Galvanized by a large insurgence of government funding and fueled by the worldwide success

of Chinese and Indian artists, Asia is now on the world stage as a producer and consumer of modern art. Art as an event, a pastime, living and an investment is rapidly developing in Singapore. Government funded art schools, Sota, art fairs, like Art Stage, and art such as Gillman Barracks are the newest additions to the fine art world. Nanyang College of the arts regularly hosts free art shows to showcase their young graduates and undergraduates.

What I love the most about art in Singapore is the absolutely outstanding display of pricely sculptures in public places

and walkways. Where else in the world would you have an open-spaced exhibition of Botero’s statues in an unguarded park. The two prime locations to look for great statues are Orchard Road and Boat Quay. Both of them have free standing Botero statues and great pieces from local artists.

The foyer of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel has some stunning modern pieces which add a dimension of quirkiness to this most interesting

new development. It is mandatory for new real estate investors to bring in major art pieces and make them accessible to the public. One of the benefits of a small well policed country is that the art is never vandalized. The St Regis Hotel

on Tanglin Rd, is another amazing site for sculptures and art works. Boasting Botero Statues and Picasso Artworks on display.

They join the performing arts as centre piece to the development of Singapore’s cultural platform. The Esplanade is a sweeping

modern forum for the performing arts, affectionately nicknamed the Durian, because of its shape and unusual roofline, and is a centre piece for the performing arts. This government-run complex is complimented by the addition of large theatre complexes under the Marina Bay Sands Umbrella. The majority of the works presented are visiting international performances, but Singapore does have a tradition of home grown theatre supported by grants, sponsorships and attendance.

Music, in the form of international artists and concerts, is a huge business in Singapore that

is heavily supported by ticket sales and sponsorship. Sponsorship and grants are vital for the security and profitability of all art events in Singapore. The mainstream events are heavily sponsored by the government and well attended. This has spurned on an art underground which is self-funding, self-perpetuating and building diversity in the art world. In many ways the development of the art subculture is a sign of maturity of the artistic culture.

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Film, television and animation are another artistic arm that is receiving great support from the government in terms of funding and

infrastructure. The government’s focus is film post-production; but the independent film and creative elements of digital art are also benefiting. For a small country, the amount of locally produced content in television is very high.

The current focus is heavily on the fine arts with two large events a year. One of these is ArtStage, which is modeled on Art Basel,

putting Singapore firmly in competition with Hong Kong as the centre point for the distribution of Asian Art. Fine art is not cheap in Singapore and, with close to 400 registered galleries, there is a lot to choose from. The current fashion of being an art aficionado is a boon to the art world. And since fine art is all about appreciation of the execution and the appeal of the visual rather than an exploration of protest or expose’, it is easy to buy a piece for that wall or shelf.

Given the international prominence of current major events and the growing success of individual artists in all disciplines the

continued support will only grow. As the interest and influx of ideas and concepts continues, the diversity and depth of the art culture and art market will be shaped to reflect these influences. Singapore has historically been restricted to established definitions of fine art, but with the opening of new doors comes the opening of minds and, close behind, wallets. For where would art, the noblest expression of consumerism, be without investment.

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SEE & DO DIRECTORY

Cope Visitor Centre Centre of Medical Rehabilitation, Khouvieng www.copelaos.org 021 218 427

From Farm to Market www.tuktuksafari.com 020 5433 3089,

Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women

Lane 19, Houey Hong Village www.houeyhongcentre.com 021 560 006

I:CAT Gellery Ban Bounkagnom,Thadeua Rd icatgallery 020 7783 9674

Inpeng Ethnic Cultural Park 406 T4 Rd., Donekoy Village 20 28035756, 20 55620191, 20 23999990

Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre

www.laodisabledwomen.com 020 5433 3089

Lao Bowling Centre Boulevard Khunbulom

(near the National Stadium) 021 254 332

Lao National Museum Samsenthai Road, Anou Village 021 212 460

Lao Experiences Cooking Class and Food Tours

lao-experiences.com 020 5569 9429

Long Vien Golf Club Km 17 Thadeau Road, Dongposy Village www.longviengolfresort.com 030 977 8888

Lao People’s Army History Museum

Near the Ministry of Defense, Kaisone Phomvihane Road

Mon - Fri 8am – 11.30am, 1.30pm – 4pm

Lao Textile Museum Ban Nongthatai, Chanthabouly 021 560 458, 021 213 467

Lao Zoo Ban Boo Tulakhum District www.laozoo.com 023-241-015

President Kaysone Phomvihane Memorial Museum

National Highway 13 km 6 8am – 12pm, 1pm – 4pm,

Close on Monday and public holidays

People’s Security Museum Kaisone Phomvihane Road 8am – 11.30am, 1.30pm – 4pm

Vientiane Bicycle www.vientianebycycle.com. 020 5581 2337

Vientiane Orchidées 59/642 Ban Phonethong, Chomany www.vientianeorchidees.com 021 560 444

The Memorial of President Souphanouvong

Kaisone Phomvihane Road, Phonesa-ard Village

Mon - Fri 8am – 11.30am, 1.30pm – 4pm

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LUANG PRABANGElephant Village Sanctuary Day Trips

Ban Xieng Lom www.elephantvillage-laos.com 071 252 417

Garavek Performance 85/5 Kounxoua Road, Ban Phonheuang www.garavek.com 020 9677 7300

Ethnik Fashion Show Kingkitsarat Road, Ban Aphay www.hivebarlaos.com 020 5999 5370

Living Land Farm Khuangsi Water Fall Road, Ban Pongvang www.livinglandlao.com 020 5519 9208

Luang Prabang Library Sisavangvong Road, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Nam Ou Elephant Farm Ban Vang Lae, Pak Ou District www.namouelephantfarm.com 020 2863 8805

Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre

Ban Saylom (opposite Phousi Market) www.ockpoptok.com 071 212 597

Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden Ban Mano Road www.pha-tad-ke.com 020 22 540 999

Project Space Gallery Kitsalat Road, Thong Chaleuan Village www.projectspace-luangprabang.com 071 213 091

Tamnak Lao Cooking School Sakarine Rd, Ban Watsene 071 252 525

Tamarind Cooking Courses Ban Vat Sene www.tamarindlaos.com 071 213 128

UXO Laos Visitor Center Behind Chao Anouvoung Monument, Phothisan Rd. 071 252 525

White Elephant Adventures 44/3 Sisavangvong Road, Ban Xieng Mouane www.white-elephant-adventures-laos.com 030 514 0243

Tiger Trail Outdoor Adventures Sisavangvong Road, www.laos-adventures.com 071 212 311

The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC)

Ban Khamyong, Luang Prabang www.taeclaos.org 071 253 364

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Enjoy

Anytime Anywhere

For More InformationTHM Lao Co., LTD. 265 Baan Nongbone, Xaysetha, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.

Ms. Chayada Ariyaphoncharoen ( Gung ) Sales & Marketing Director

Tel/Fax: +856 21 454 782; Mob: +856 20 5884 8376; +856 20 5516 2440. E-mail: [email protected]

Mob: +856 20 5884 8376, +66 83 018 4076 ( Thai ); E-mail: [email protected]

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SLEEP DIRECTORY

Auberge Sala Inpeng 63/6 Inpeng Street, Ban Wat Chanh salalao.com/Sala_ Inpeng 021 242 021

Ansara Hotel Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha www.ansarahotel.com 021 213 514

Don Chan Palace Hotel Unit 6 Piwat Village, Sisatanak District donchanpalacelaopdr.com 021 244 288

Chanthapanya Hotel Baan Phiavat www.chanthapanyahotel.com 021 244 284

Beau Rivage Mekong Hotel Fangum Road, Ban Sithanneua www.hbrm.com 021 243 350, 243 375-6

Best Western Vientiane Hotel 2-12 Francois Nginn Street, Ban Mixay www.bestwesternvientiane.com 021 216906-9

City Inn Vientiane Corner of Phangkham and

Phainam Street www.cityinnvientiane.com 021 218333

Cosmo Hotel Ban Pakao www.hotelcosmolao.com 021 711175-7

Dhavara Boutique Hotel 25 Manthalath Road, Ban Xieng Ngeun dhavaraboutiquehotel.com 021 222238

Angkham Hotel Kaysone Phomvihanh Road www.angkhamhotel.com 021 900 011-20

Dork Champa Hotel Kamphengmeuang Boulevard

(T4 Road) www.dorkjumpahotel.com 021 331888

Douang Deuane Hotel Rue Nokeokoummane 021 222 300

Green Park Boutique Hotel 12 Khouvieng Road www.greenparkvientiane.com 021 264 097

Ihouse Residence Hotel 72/6 PangKham www.ihouse-laos.com 021 217 053

Family Hotel Pangkham Road, Sysaketh Village www.familyhotellaos.com 021 260448-9

ibis Hotel Namphu Ban Xieng Ngneung www.ibis.com 021 263 201

Landmark Mekong Riverside Thathkhao Village, Sisattanak District www.landmarkmekonghotel.com.la 021 266 888

Lao Plaza Hotel 63 Samsenthai Road www.laoplazahotel.com 021 218 800

Lao Orchid Hotel Chao Anou Rd.,Vat Chanh www.lao-orchid.com 021 264 134

Lao Silk Hotel Rue Francois Ngin 021 213 976

Lalco AR Hotel Saylom Road, Hadsadi Village 021 263 023, 030 5832417

Villa Lao Horm 3 Nongdouang village 021 242 292

Phasouk Residence 57/4 Wat Xieng Gneun Road www.phasoukresidence.com 021 243 415

Mercure Vientiane Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha accorhotels.com 021 213 570

Mandala Boutique Hotel Baan Phiavat mandalahotel.asia 021 214 493

Mali Namphu Hotel 109 Pangkham Road, Xiengngeun Village www.malinamphu.com 021 215093

Phonethip Plaza Hotel Unit 16, Beung Kha Nhong Village phonethip.plaza.hotel.laos 021 261591

Salana Boutique Hotel 112 Chao Anou Road salanaboutique.com 021 254 254

Rashmi’s Plaza Hotel Thadeua Rd, Ban Beungkhayong www.rashmishotel.com 021 315 088

Settha Palace Hotel 6 Pang Kham Street www.setthapalace.com 021 217 581

Somerset Vientiane Souphanouvong Avenue www.somerset.com 021 250 888

Sabaidee @ Lao Hotel Pangkham Rd, Sisaket Village www.sabaideeatlaohotel.com 021 265141-2, 265152

Sengtawan Riverside Hotel Unit 3, Sithan Nuea Village sengtawan.com 021 219.362 - 5

Seasons Riverside Hotel 25, Fa Ngum Road, Ban Sithane Neua www.seasonsriverside.com 021 214-521

Vientiane Plaza Hotel 6 Pang Kham Street www.vientianeplazalao.com 020 2300 0433

Vientiane Garden Hotel 56 Sihome Road, Ban Sihome vientianegardenhotel.com 021 241 963

Vansana Riverside Hotel Ban Sithane Neua www.vansanahotel-group.com 021 252 090-7

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LUANG PRABANG3 Nagas Hotel

Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong 3-nagas.com 071 253 888

Ock Pop Tok Mekong Villa Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong ockpoptok.com 071 212 597

Le Sen Boutique Hotel 113 Manomai Road, Ban Mano lesenhotel.com 071 261 668

Satri House 57 Photisarath Road, Ban Thatluang satrihouse.com 071 253 491

Nam Ou Riverside Hotel & Resort

Vanglae Village, Pak Ou District www.namouriverside.com 030 924 8567

Angsana Maison Souvannaphoum

Rue Chao Fa Ngum, Banthatluang www.angsana.com 071 254 609

Kiridara 22/13 North Road, Ban Naviengkham www.snhcollection.com/kiridara 071 261 888

Le Palais Juliana Chao Phetsalath Street, Ban-Sangkalok www.lepalaisjuliana.com 071 260 417

Muang Thong Hotel Oupalathkhamboua Rd., Ban Thatluang www.muangthonghotel.com 071 254 976

Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao

belmond.com 071 212 530

The Apsara Ban Phanluang theapsara.com 071 254 252

Villa Maly Hotel 113 Manomai Road, Ban Mano villa-maly.com 071 253 902

Treasure Hotel Laos Norasan Road, Ban That Luang www.treasurehotellaos.com 071 260 661

The Belle Rive Boutique Hotel 99 Baan Phonehueang, Riverfront www.thebellerive.com 071 260 733

The Luang Say Residence 4-5 Ban Phonepheng www.luangsayresidence.com 071 260 891

Tropical Oasis Park125 Unit 7, Vixoun Village, Luang PrabangTel: 071 212 642

facebook.com/luangprabangoasis

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The Luang Say Residence

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VANGVIENG

Riverside Boutique Resort Ban Viengkeo, PO 360 Vang Vieng www.riversidevangvieng.com 023 511 726-8

Inthira Vang Vieng Ban Savang, Vang Vieng www.inthira.com 023 511 070

Villa Vang Vieng Riverside Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng www.villavangvieng.com 023 511 188

The Elephant Crossing Hotel PO Box 5512, Vang Vieng www.theelephantcrossinghotel.com 023 511 232, 023 511 634

Vansana Vang Vieng Hotel Ban sysavang, Vang Vieng www.vansanahotel-group.com 023 511 598-9

Vieng Tara Villa Vang Vieng www.viengtara.com 020 5551 8155

Villa Nam Song Ban ViengKeo, Vang Vieng www.villanamsong.com 023 511 637

Thavonsouk Resort P.O.BOX 2715 , Vang Vieng www.thavonsouk.com 023 511 096, 511 215

CHAMPASAK

LIST YOUR PROPERTIES ON OUR DIRECTORY PAGESPLEASE CONTACT USTel: 021 454 782Mob: 020 5884 8376Email: [email protected]

La Folie Lodge Done Daeng, District Pathoumphone lafolie-laos.com 020 55 532 004

Waterfall Resort Ban E-Tu Paksong

waterfalletupaksong.com 020 2866 2809

Pakse Hotel Street 5, Ban Watkouang hotelpakse.com 031 212 131

Champasak Palace Hotel P.O Box 718, Pakse www.champasakpalacehotel.com 031 212 131

Champasak Grand Hotel Lao Nippon Bridge www.champasakgrand.com 031 255111-8, 260211

Mekong Paradise Resort Ban Nonhsavang 031 254 120

The River Resort Champasak Ban Phaphinnoy, 14A Rd., Champasak theriverresortlaos.com 030 95 68306

Residence Sisouk Ban Lakmuang www.residence-sisouk.com 031 214716

Sinouk Coffee Resort LakKhao Village, Paksong-Thateng Road sinoukcoffeeresort.com 030 955 8960

Inthira Hotel Ban Vat Amard, Champasak District www.inthira.com 031 511011

A RETROESCAPEBY THE RIVERSamut Songkram, Thailand

1285, PATHUMMALAI ROAD, T. MAEKLONG, MUANG DISTRICT, SAMUT SONGKRAM 75000 RESERVATION:+66 (0) 3470 1121 E- MAIL : [email protected]

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Sabaidee - Lao lifestyle & travel magazine issue 30

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