sabaidee lifestyle & travel magazine issue 2

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The inaugural issue of Sabaidee Magazine was a resounding success with lots of positive feedback and the general feeling that we have already become “one of the most favorite magazines in Lao”.

As we move through ‘Visit Laos Year 2012’, we thought it would only be right to feature 12 Lao attractions across the country that will make your journey through Lao during 2012 a memorable experience. From Northern Laos, all the way down to the south, and everywhere in between, these attractions and activities will bring the best of Laos directly to you!

Golf tourism is rapidly becoming a powerful force across Asia, and with the Luang Prabang Lao Open 2012 set to take place in May 3-6, we have a review of the tournament and the host venue, the Luang Prabang Golf Club, which is a must for all golf lovers.

We also have our usual mix of articles for you to digest this month such as a look into lo-cal Lao cuisine favorites and spa and hotel reviews, alongside a breakdown of the latest Ford vehicles hitting the marketplace.

Once again, we have managed to bring you an action-packed issue that will no doubt whet your appetite when traveling through this beautiful and eclectic nation.

All the best,

The Editor

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Regulars10 Lao Calendar12 Hot Travel Deals14 PR Bulletin Board60 Sabaidee Club

Travel18 Travel Report20 Special Report22 Feature - 12 of the Best40 Lao Rooms50 Culture - Muay

Lifestyle42 Lao Cuisine44 Luang Prabang Lao Open48 Golfcourse Review52 Behind the Wheel - Ford59 Sabaidee Relax

THISISSUEmarch-april 2012

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ຄະນະທປກສາ | Consultantsພນລະຄອນ ສບນເຮອງ | Phanhlakhone Syboonheungອະນວງ ຈນທະລານວງ | Anouvong Jantalanuvongພດທະລະພງ ຄງວຈດ | Pattarapong Kongvijitວສດ ເຊາວະລດຕານນ | Wisith Chawalitanonຜອຳນວຍການ | Directorມານະໄຊ ອນແກວ | Manachai Inkaewບນນາທການບລຫານ | Editor in Chiefເກດ ພດທະຢາກອນສນ | Gaid Kornsilapaບນນາທການ | Editorສມໃຈ ພມຜາສກ | Somjai Pimpasoukບນນາທການ ພາສາອງກດ | English Editorອະລນ ວາດ | Alan Wassບນນາທການອອນລາຍ | Online Editorຄະນດຖາ ອດຕະເມດ | Kanittha Attamateຈດໜາ ແລະ ອອກແບບ | Layout Designນດນະລ ມາທອງ | Nutnaree Mathongກອນແກວ ນກແກວ | Kornkaew Nokkaew

ຝາຍຂາຍ ແລະ ການຕະຫລາດ | Sales & Marketingຜອຳນວຍການຝາຍຂາຍ | Sales & Marketing Directorຊາຢາດາ ອະລຍະຜນຈະເລນ |Chayada Ariyaphoncharoen ຜຈດການຝາຍການຕະລາດ | Marketing Managerນນທະນາ ອນແກວ | Nanthana Inkaewລດຕະນາ ອດມລດ | Lattana Udomlith ຜຈດການຝາຍຂາຍ | Sales Managerພະຊາກອນ ພະຫລກ | Pasakorn Bhahurakຫວໜາຝາຍການເງນ | Financial Controllerສລວນ ວລະວດທະນະໄຊ | Siriwan weeravattanachai

ສຳນກງານຂາຍ | Sales Officeສະບາຍດ ເມກາຊນ, ທຣອປຄອລ ໂອເອຊດພາກບານວຊນ, ຖະໜນ ໄຊເສດຖາທລາດ, ຫລວງພະບາງ ສ.ປ.ປ. ລາວSabaidee Magazine, Tropical Oasis Park, Ban Visoun, Chaichetthatirat Road, Luang Prabang, Lao P.D.R.ໂທ: 071 252 933 | Tel: 071 252 933 ແຟກ: 071 212 818 | Fax: 071 212 818Email: [email protected]

ເຈາຂອງ ແລະ ຜຈດພມ | Owner & Publisherທ ເອສ ເອມ | THMບານວຊນ, ຖະໜນ ໄຊເສດຖາທລາດ, ຫລວງພະບາງ ສ.ປ.ປ. ລາວBan Visoun, Chaichetthatirat Road, Luang Prabang, Lao P.D.R.

Directory & Map61 Lao's General Information62 Vientiane Directory64 Vang Vieng Directory66 Pakse & Champasak Directory68 Savannakhet Directory70 Luang Prabang Directory

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Wisi th Chawal i tanon

chief execut ive officerวศษฏ ชวลตานนท

Wisi th Chawal i tanon

chief execut ive officerวศษฏ ชวลตานนท

+66 (0) 2513 4913, +66 (0) 2513 4996+66 (0) 81 906 1457 | [email protected]

+66 (0) 2513 4913, +66 (0) 2513 4996+66 (0) 81 906 1457 | [email protected]

Tropical Hospitality Management Co., Ltd.80/23 Ladprao 23, Chankasem, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900 THAILAND

Tropical Hospitality Management Co., Ltd.80/23 Ladprao 23, Chankasem, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900 THAILAND

www.thethm.com

Also available at:

www.sabaidee-magazine.com

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Contributors

Alan WassAlan Wass is a native English speak-ing writer who has worked for publi-cations across Thailand that include the Phuket Gazette, Phuket Post, Day&Night Magazine, The Phuketian and Top10Phuket, alongside some of the biggest property websites in Thai-land such as Siam Real Estate and Thailand holiday Homes. Passionate about his job and with a quirky sense of humor, Alan is the stereotypical dis-illusioned writer/editor putting words together in a certain way that resem-bles sentences and paragraphs.

Joe WilliamsJoseph is determined to have tried out every profession un-der the sun by the age of 30. A qualified accountant and part-time English tutor, travel writing seemed the next logi-cal step. Joseph lives in Bang-kok but has spent time enjoy-ing the sights and sounds of Laos as well as other South East Asian countries.

John YatesJohn Yates has been a Southeast Asia enthusiast for as long as he can remember. An avid writer and foodie with an academic background that spans business, political science and linguistics, he has lived in China and Thailand and has traveled extensively throughout the Indochina region.

Ann Moey Ann Moey is a 28-year-old Singaporean who relocated to Laos a year and a half ago to head the communica-tions department at a local renewable energy company. She is a thrill seeker who en-joys going on cross-country motorbike trips just soaking up everything that’s thrown in her path.

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Sabaidee Magazine apology:We would like to apologize for a mis-take we made on the contributors page in the January 2012 issue. We mistakenly placed Melissa Richter’s photos over the bio for Jennifer Brown and vice versa. We are sorry for any confusion caused.

Melissa Richter Jennifer Brown

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May 3-6, 2012LUANG PRABANG GOLF CLUB

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InternatIonal Women’s DayVenue: nationwide

This public holiday honors women in Lao society, with cel-ebrations at homes and in offices.

International Women's Day is about celebrating the vital role women play in enhancing economic security for their fami-lies, communities and countries as a whole while recogniz-ing that significant barriers to achieving women's economic security and equality continue to exist.

Boun Pha VeTVenue: nationwide

Lasting 3 days and 3 nights in late-march, this religious festival celebrates Buddha’s previous incarnation before being born as Prince Siddhartha. This is a time you will see the Lao people at their colorful best during this festival period.

PII maI Lao (lao new Year)Venue: nationwide

Lao new year is the biggest and most famous of the festivals in Laos. Luang Prabang gets very busy over this period and hotels are often fully booked, weeks if not months, before this time. Book early to ensure rooms are available and enjoy vibrant and colorful celebrations, which will give you a fascinating insight into Lao culture and the locals. Luang PraBang

Lao goLf oPenVenue: Luang Prabang golf Club

Luang Prabang Golf Club will host its first professional golf tournament this year when the Luang Prabang Lao open tees-off on the ASEAN PGA Tour. Signifying the rapid ex-pansion of golf in the region and in particular into new untapped nations, the Luang Prabang Lao open will be played at Luang Prabang golf Club from april 26-29, the third event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour.

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Summer Early Booking Promotion @ Villa Maly

laos airlinEs’ Promotion to ViEtnaMForget the long bus ride - laos airlines connects Vietnam to Vientiane, the capital city of laos, for a competitive price. Promotional fares between Ho Chi Minh City and Vientiane are UsD123 one-way or UsD231 return while Hanoi to Vientiane costs UsD184 one-way or UsD312 return. Visit www.laoairlines.com for more information or to make an online booking. you can also email [email protected] or contact their ticket-ing Office at 856 (0) 21 2120 5154.

LoSt in LaoS @ XPlorE-LaoSEnjoy a stunning 4 day tour trekking around the sites of southern laos, including the World Heritage site of Wat Phu, elephant rid-ing to Phu asa temple in the heart of the Xe Pian Protected area, and the wetlands of si Pan Don where you can try kayaking, rafting or take a scenic boat ride through the area. take this magnificent tour for under 400USD. For more information, you can call +856 (0)31 251 983 or visit www.xplore-laos.com.

LaoS traveL HotsPots 4dayS/3 nightS tour with asian toUr aDVisor

a unique Vientiane and luang Prabang tour, this program focuses on some of the best boutique properties in laos; all feature peace-ful surroundings, stylish designs, great food and a friendly personal ambiance. all of this is complimented by some wonderfully varied excursions all at a relaxed pace along the way. Enjoy this picture perfect and laid back week-long tour of Laos for under 500USD. For more details, visit www.laostravelpackages.com or email [email protected].

once the home of lao royalty, Villa Maly is an exquisite boutique hotel in luang Prabang, ensconced by a profusion of tropical flora. Book at least 60 days be-fore arrival for 2 nights between the 1st of May to the 30th of September 2012 and get a 5% discount. To find out more details about the promotion, you can email [email protected] or call +856 71 253 902.

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A Place Of Memorable ExperiencesIn Luang Prabang

The Chill Out Escape

The UltimateRelaxation Hideaway

A Stylish Budget AccommodationOption in Luang Prabang

Tropical Garden RestaurantThe Authentic Thai Cuisine in Town

For reservations, please contact:125 Unit 7, Bane Vixoun, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR

Tel: +856 (0) 71 212 642, +856 (0) 71 252 933www.tropicaloasispark.com

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LUANG PRABANG LAO OPEN LAUNCHED ON ASEAN PGA TOURVientiane, Laos, January 19, 2012: In a far reaching development for golf in the region Laos will host its very first professional golf tournament this year when the Luang Prabang Lao Open tees-off on the ASEAN PGA Tour. Signifying the rapid expansion of golf in the region and in particular into new untapped nations, the Luang Prabang Lao Open will be played at Luang Prabang Golf Club from May 3 to 6. The tournament prize money is US$80,000 and will be the third event of the season on the ASEAN PGA Tour. For more info, please contact Simon Wilson, Media Manager, Golf, World Sport Group, Tel: +65 9127 5419.

PLANNED UPGRADES FOR ROADS IN NORTHERN LAOSLaos is making some giant leaps to step up its infrastructure in line with the high in-flux of visitors the country is starting to enjoy. Plans are now underway to improve roads in Huaphan and Xieng Khuang provinces in Northern Laos with a budget of approximately US$42.3 million on the table. Bids are currently being invited to companies interested in taking on the project. These are two of the poorest prov-inces in Laos, so upgraded infrastructure and easier accessibility will be greatly welcomed and a move in the right direction for the country as a whole.

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Tropical Garden RestaurantThe Authentic

Thai Cuisine in Town

LUANG PRABANG WINS THE ‘BEST CITY IN THE WORLD’ FOR THE SECOND TIMEWe all know Luang Prabang is a fascinating and colorful city making big waves on the South-East-Asian travel scene, as its UNESCO World Heritage status suggests, but it’s always nice to receive other accolades from outside sources confirming what we already knew all along. Luang Prabang, for the second year in a row, has been voted as the “Best City in the World to Visit” by the United Kingdom’s leading travel magazines. When you think about all the amazing metropolises around the world, this is a great achievement for this culturally-rich Laos’ city, which continues to punch well above its weight.

POVERTY REDUCTION PLANS HELP AGRICULTURE IN NORTHERN LAOSThe Asian Development Bank (ADB), has pledged a US$23 million grant to the Laos government for the Northern Rural Infra-structure Sector Project from 2011-2017. The project aims to tackle poverty reduc-tion across 11 districts in the provinces of Bokeo, Luang Namtha, Oudomxay, and Phongsaly. The project will help develop and repair irrigation infrastructures and help to create new systems where there is currently none. The aim is to boost rural in-comes and agricultural production, which will benefit the poorest in the country.

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Dhammada Massage OasisThe Ult imate Relaxat ion Hideaway

Mekong River

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Service Hours10.00 – 20.00 Hrs.

Tropical Oasis Park, Bane Vixoun, Setthatirath Road, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR.Tel: 071 212 642, 071 252 933 Fax: 071 212 818

Email:[email protected] www.luangprabangoasis.com

Foot Relaxation Treatment

Relaxing Break

Oriental Massage

Aroma Oil Massage

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I first visited Laos about 15 years ago. The opening of the Friendship Bridge connecting Nong Khai, Thai-land to Vientiane made access from

Bangkok just an overnight train and quick tuk tuk ride away.

Why did I come? I’d already been around Thailand and Malaysia, and had popped into Cambodia. I was looking for someplace different, and no one I knew had been to Laos. Back then, most of the country wasn’t ready for tourists, but curiosity had grabbed me, so I went to the capital for a peek.

A few months ago I was visiting the US, and met David Whiteside, an Aus-tralian tourist. He heard I was living in Laos, and said he wanted to go there. I asked him, “Why?”

“Well, I’ve gone to Thailand many times, and I’ve been to Cambodia and Vietnam, but I’ve never been to Laos. What can I do there?”

I chanted my litany of attractions and activities, from the rapids raging around the 4,000 Islands to a Tai Dam

woman distilling lao khao rice whis-key in Luang Namtha.

But was he simply curious, or was there something

more at play?

Earlier this year, former Cornell School of Tourism and Hospitality professor Thomas Cullen visited Vientiane, and I asked him why more and more tour-ists visiting the region were heading to Laos.

“People travel to tell the story,” he said, citing his Star Trek principle. “They want to go where no one else has been.”

Professor Tom zeroed in on cultural tourism due to the opportunity for ac-tive participation such as homestays.

He added that tourists are now seek-ing adventures, activities, and memo-rable experiences. Nature is also a big draw.

Peter Semone, Lanith’s (Lao National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality) chief technical advisor agreed. “I think the most important reason why more tourists are coming to Laos is because they can expect a reasonably authen-tic experience compared to other des-tinations.”

An authentic experience… maybe that was the common denominator. In Houei Xay, I had explored Fort Carnot, a 100-year-old French garrison over-looking the Mekong, and wandered about alone.

A short drive away on the Lao side of the Golden Triangle, a seven-meter-tall Buddha statue sat by itself in a field, until I showed up.

In Champasak Province, a bike ride on Don Khong Island led to Vat Phou Khao Keo’s stupa dating to 1364, with museum-grade stones bearing Sanskrit writing and Khmer carvings scattered at its base. I felt like Indiana Jones.

A couple of hours outside of Pakse at Salavan Province’s Tad Lo Waterfall Park, a moderate hike delivered me to the 90-meter Tad Soung Waterfall.

In nearby Saneum Nai Village, ethnic Souay, Katou, and Lao Loum playing homemade instruments treated me to a folk music recital.

Sure, when I return to the main tourist centers, other adventurers are milling about, and it’s fun to exchange memo-rable-experience tales with them.

Most, like Australian David, have traveled to other Southeast Asian countries, and now want to join Cap-tain Kirk and Spock in going where no one else has gone. They’re coming to Laos.

To Go Where No oNe else has GoneBy Bernie Rosenbloom

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‘We Are in the Business of PeoPle’

LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE | 2012.1.1

abaideeSabaideeS ສະບາຍດ ໄລສະໄຕ ແອນ ເທຣເວລ

ThE1sT issuE

ເລມໜງ

IntervIew wIth Inthy Deansavanhພເຂາຄວາຍ ໃນການເດນປາຮວມກບຄເດນທາງທມນຳໃຈ

new FaCeOF Luang Prabang

ໃບໜາໃໝຂອງຫວງພະບາງMuang ngOI neuaOff the beaten track in LaOs

tantaLIze YOur taste buDs In LaOShop

Relaxand

dining out

guide in laoS& etc.

Laos 25,000 KiPThailand 100 ThBsingapore 4 sGD

LIFESTYLE & TRAV

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ສະບາຍດ ໄລສະໄຕ ແອນ ເທຣເວລ

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WWWTHAILANDBOUTIQUEAWARDS 2010

Hospitality oNliNE MEdia

publicatioNs

Tropical HospiTaliTy ManageMenT80/23 Ladprao Soi 23, Chankasem, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900Tel: +66 2513 4913, +66 2513 4996 | Fax: +66 2513 4674

BangKoK oFFice:

Bane Vixoun, Setthatirath Road, Luang Prabang, Lao PDRTel: 071 212 642, 071 252 933 | Fax: 071 212 818

lao oFFice:

Email: [email protected] | www.thethm.com

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Visit Laos Year 2012

The ‘Visit Laos Year 2012’ is now well and Truly underway, bringing more knowledge and exposure To The coun-Try, hoping To aTTracT record num-bers of visiTors in 2012 and beyond.

2012 is Laos’ year… literally! in a bid to gain more exposure and to

promote tourism in the country, the ‘Visit Laos Year 2012’ campaign is now well underway and despite changes in the leadership of the organ-ization in recent months, is gaining momentum by the minute. activities under the campaigns banner will focus on the country’s largest cul-tural events such as the Hmong New Year, the elephant Festival in sayabouly (February), Lao New Year in Luang Prabang (april), the rocket Festival in Xieng Khouang (May), and the that Luang Festival in Vientiane (November).

the preparations will continue as normal even though the Ministry of information and Culture and the Lao National tourism administration have merged. in fact, this move will prob-ably aid tighter cohesion when organizing the events.

Visit Laos Year 2012 will all be about introduc-ing Laos’ interesting and colorful culture to the rest of the world bringing together many as-pects of the country such as traditional dance, stage performances, and fashion and music extravaganzas.

With the country’s private sectors endorsing and jointly promoting the campaign, Visit Laos Year 2012 is expected to bring more visitors to the country in 2012 and way beyond. Be-ing such a fledgling nation in terms of tourism, businesses need to improve the level of their services in line with international standards to support the coming influx of tourism expected to hit the region.

the time is now for Laos, as the Visit Laos Year 2012 moves into full swing and promises to be a monumental 12 months for everyone in-volved in the Laos tourism industry. exposure is just what the country needs at this point in time, especially whilst Laos package holidays are considerably more affordable than most other countries that rely on tourism for the bulk of their income.

ປທອງທຽວລາວ 2012

2012 ແມນປຂອງລາວ... ແທໆ! ດວຍເປາໝາຍ ເສມຂະຫຍາຍການ ສສານກບມວນຊນ ແລະ ສງເສມການ ທອງທຽວພາຍໃນປະເທດ ການໂຄສະນາ ‘ປທອງທຽວລາວ 2012’ ໄດເລມຕນຂນ ແລະເຄອນໄຫວໄປໄດດຂນເລອຍໆ ເຖງແມນວາຈະມການປຽນແປງດານການ ນຳຂອງອງການ ໃນຊມເດອນຜານມາກຕາມ. ກດຈະກຳຕາງໆພາຍໃຕໂຄງການໂຄສະນາ ນ ຈະສມໃສເທດສະການ ທາງວດທະນະທຳ ອນໃຫຍໆ ເຊນ ບນກນຈຽງຂອງມງ ບນຊາງຢໄຊຍະບລ (ກມພາ) ບນປໃໝທ ຫວງພະບາງ (ເມສາ) ບນບງໄຟ ທຊຽງຂວາງ (ພດສະພາ) ແລະ ບນນະມດ ສະການພະທາດຫວງ (ພະຈກ) ເປນຕນ.

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of the best – Visit Laos Year 2012By Joe Williams

As Visit Laos Year 2012 moves into full effect, we thought it would be rather apt to give our readers a selection of excit-ing activities and sites to see across the

country. Laos is an eclectic nation that merges the best aspects of Asian culture with Colonial French nuances that combine together to create a country that is unique and diverse, ideal for holidaymakers looking for something different.

From Phongsali in the far north, to Cham-pasak in the south, and everything in between, from Chom Ong Caves in Ou-domxay, to Kayaking in Vientiane and

tubing in Vang Vieng, we have all angles covered for every major destination in Laos. The coun-try also has some of the most stunning natural scenery in Asia, which is also why we give you details about Nam Ha National Park in Luang-namtha, Trekking in the Nam Lan Conservation Area, and also about visiting Boualapha Lime-stone Forest at Khammuane.

Visit Laos Year 2012 is an exciting time for everyone across the country, and what better way to see all the sights with Sabaidee Magazine.

ໃນຂະນະທ ປທອງທຽວລາວ 2012 ກຳລງກາວໄປຢາງ ມປະສດທຜນເຕມສວນ ພວກເຮາຄດວາມນ ສມຄວນແລວທຈະໃຫທາງເລອກແກບນດາຜອານຂອງພວກເຮາໃນການ ເຮດກດຈະກຳ ແລະ ທຽວຊມ ແຫງທອງທຽວ ຕາງໆໃນທວປະເທດ. ປະເທດລາວເປນຊາດທມສສນອນສວຍ ສດ ງດ ງາມ ທລວມເອາລກສະນະ ເດນກວາໝທາງດານວດທະນະທຳໃນອາຊຽນ ປະສມປະສານກບຮອງຮອຍຕາງໆຈາກອະນານຄມຂອງ ຝຣງ ເພອກໃຫເກດເປນປະເທດທມເອກະລກອນ ສະເພາະ ແລະ ແຕກຕາງ,ເຊງເປນຄວາມຝນຂອງ ຜທຢາກພກຜອນທສະແຫວງຫາສງທແຕກຕາງອອກໄປ.

ຕງແຕແຂວງຜງສາລຢພາກເໜອທຫາງໄກ ຫາ ແຂວງຈຳປາສກຢພາກໃຕ ແລະ ແຂວງອນໆຈາກຖຳຈອມອງ ໃນແຂວງອດມໄຊ ຫາລອງ ເຮອກາຍະກງ ທວຽງຈນ ແລະຮຖຳທວງວຽງ ການນຳສະເໜຂອງພວກເຮາແມນໄດກວມເອາທກມມທ ເປນຈດໝາຍປາຍທາງຫກໃນປະເທດລາວ.

ປະເທດນຍງມບາງທດສະນຍະພາບທາງທຳມະຊາດທໜາ ອດສະຈນທສດ ໃນອາຊ ຍອນແນວນນ ຈງຈະຕອງ ໃຫລາຍລະອຽດກຽວກບສະຖານທທອງທຽວຕມ ເຊນ ປາ ສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດນຳຫາ ແຂວງຫລວງນຳທາ, ການເດນປາທເຂດອະນລກນຳລານ ແລະ ການທຽວ ຊມປາຫນປນທເມອງບວລະພາ ແຂວງຄຳມວນ.

ປທອງທຽວລາວ 2012 ແມນເປນຊວງເວລາທຕນເຕນສຳລບທກຄນໃນທວປະເທດ ແລະ ຫນທາງທດ ໃນການຊອກຮສະຖານທທຽວຊມທງໝດເຫລານ ແມນຢໃນວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ”

12 ແຫງທອງທຽວສດຍອດ ຮບປທອງທຽວລາວ 2012

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Photography by Ari Vitikainen

12 ແຫງທອງທຽວສດຍອດ ຮບປທອງທຽວລາວ 2012 Phongsali

Trekking in the Nam Lan Conservation Area

Located at an altitude of 1,400 me-ters, Phongsali and its beau-

tiful surrounding countryside is a hidden jewel and one that is often overlooked by travelers. Access to Phongsali is either by the road from Udomxai or along the river from Muang Khua.

The journeys are not the easiest, but the scenery visi-tors are greeted with upon reaching the town makes the journey more than worthwhile. Overlooked by Phou Fa Mountain, Phongsali offers breathtak-ing views of the surrounding mountain countryside. However, to experience the true majesty of the local nature, visitors can undertake a trek, complete with a local guide.

The area offers a host of trekking options. Treks are usually between two and four days long, allowing trekkers to experience a night in a local Laos village, however one-day treks are available and for those with a very adventurous spirit seven-day treks can be undertaken. Treks can be booked either at Phongsali or in advance at other cities.

Treks to the surrounding areas of Phongsali ben-efit the local community as well as offer visitors the benefits of experiencing the local area. Trekkers are informed about cultures and customs so they can re-main respectful. Local villages earn money through providing accommodation, meals and selling local handcrafts.

The cost of the trek will depend on the number of people going on the trek, with the more people trek-king the less the cost per person. The cost includes an English speaking guide, accommodation and all meals. Trekkers should be prepared for meals and accommodation to be basic. Spending a night with a local tribe is a wonderful cultural experience and with no light pollution, the nighttime sky views are awesome and something you will rarely have the op-portunity to experience.

ຕງຢເໜອລະດບນຳທະເລປະມານ 1.400 ແມດ ຜງສາລ ແລະ ເຂດ ຊນນະບດອອມແອມ ແມນເປນເໝອນເພດພອຍທຖກເຊອງຊອນຢ ແລະເປນບອນທນກທອງທຽວມອງຂາມຢເລອຍໆ. ການເຂາຫາ ຜງສາລອາດໄປທາງລດຈາກອດມໄຊ ຫ ທາງນຳຈາກເມອງຂວາກໄດ. ເຂດນໃຫທາງເລອກໃນການເດນປາຫາຍອນ. ການເດນປາຕາມທຳມະດາຈະໃຊເວລາລະຫວາງສອງຫາສມ ເຊງນກເດນປາ ຈະສາມາດຫາປະສບການໃນການແຮມຄນທໝບານທອງຖນຂອງລາວ ແຕການເດນປາພຽງມດຽວກ ສາມາດເຮດໄດ ແລະສຳລບຜທມເລອດນກຜະຈນໄພ ກສາມາດໃຊເວລາເດນປາໄດເຖງເຈດມ.

ຜງສາລ

ການເດນປາ ໃນເຂດປາສະຫງວນນຳລານ

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luangnamthaNam Ha National Park

ຫລວງນຳທາ

Covering over 2,000 square kilometers and stretching up to the border of Chi-

na, Nam Ha National Park is an oasis of natural beauty. The park is covered largely by tropical and sub-tropical forestry, but the park boasts a wide array of scenery. Waterfalls and caves are dotted around the park and the Nam Tha, Nam Fa, and Nam Long rivers flow southward towards the Mekong.

The park has an abundance of flora and fauna and is recog-nized as a vital conservation area. There are approximately 37 species of larger mammals including Asian elephants, orangutans, tigers and leopards, and around 288 species of birds. Its abundance of nature and importance to many rare and endangered species brought about its status as an ASEAN Heritage Site, which was granted in 2003.

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Photography by Gawe-ella

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The park is divided into different areas, within which certain activities are permitted or banned. There are three core areas which are strictly protected; the other areas of the park allow some livelihood activities. To the north of the park on the Chi-nese border is a mountain range where the highest peak is 2,094 meters, offering spectacular views. The mountains are covered by a mix of dry evergreen forest and grasslands.

Visitors to the park enjoy a number of activities. There is the Lu-ang Namtha museum which contains a wide range of historical pieces relating to the park and provides visitors with a wealth of cultural information. Boat cruises can be taken along the Nam Tha River allowing guests to soak up the stunning natural beau-ty of the park. Trekking, river rafting and mountain biking are all available for those with the energy to undertake them.

ໂດຍກວມເອາເນອທກວາ 2.000 ຕາກໂລແມດ ແລະ ຄອບຄມໄປຈນເຖງຊາຍແດນຈນ ປາສະຫງວນ ແຫງຊາດນຳຫາເປນບອນອາໄສຂອງສງສວຍງາມທາງທຳມະຊາດ. ປາສະຫງວນແຫງນ ສວນໃຫຍ ປກຄມດວຍປາ ເຂດຮອນແລະ ລມເຂດຮອນ ແຕກຍງອວດອງທດສະນຍະພາບອນຫາກຫາຍ. ນຳຕກ ແລະ ຖຳ ແມນຢງຢາຍກນຢເປນຈດໆທວອທະຍານ ນຳທາ ນຳຟາ ແລະ ນຳລອງ ກໄຫລຜານ ລງໃຕ ປອງໃສນຳຂອງ. ນກທອງທຽວທມາຊມອທະຍານແຫງນ

ສາມາດມວນຊນກບກດຈະກຳຫາຍຢາງ. ຫພພດຕະພນຫວງນຳທາ ແມນບນຈດວຍວດຖປະຫວດສາດທກຽວຂອງກບປາສະຫງວນ ແລະ ສະໜອງ ຂມນທາງວດທະນະທຳອນຫວງຫາຍໃຫແກບນດາຜມາຢຽມຢາມ.

ປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດນຳຫາ

Photography by Gawe-ella

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Chong Ong Cave is actually a system of caves that stretches out for

18 kilometers and is located in northern Laos in the Oudomxay Province. The cave is ranked as the ninth longest cave system in South-East-Asia, although it is not yet fully explored. It is also considered to be one of the most beautiful cave systems in the world. The cave was only officially discovered by the Tour-ism Department of Oudomxay in 2006; however lo-cal villages had been using the cave to hunt and fish for centuries.

The cave lies in the village of Ban Chom Ong which is about 45 kilometers from the capital of Oudomxay Province, Muang Xay. A drive to the village is about 2 ½ hours and the journey is fairy bumpy due to the poor road conditions. The caves lie about a one hour walk from the village, and the walk takes you through pleasant nature and scenery.

oudomxayVisit Chom Ong Caves

ອດມໄຊ

Navigating the cave usually takes between four and six hours. Visitors will be able to take in the sections of the cave in all their natural beauty. There are a number of impressive side passages and the experience provides the adventure of ex-ploring areas seen by very few people before. The passages in the cave are typically between 20 and 25 meters wide and 20 to 30 meters in height.

The village of Ban Chom Ong has benefitted from the introduction of tourism. The village now has a guesthouse and has benefitted from the introduc-tion of clean drinking water. Guests on tours may well stay at a village homestay, again benefiting village residents. A wonderful experience for any-body who visits, exploring Chong Ong Cave pro-vides a rich cultural experience as well as some truly stunning natural beauty.

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ອນທຈງແລວ ຖຳຈອມອງ ແມນເປນເຄອຂາຍຖຳ ທຍາວຢຽດເຖງ 18 ຫກ ແລະ ຕງຢແຂວງອດມໄຊພາກເໜອຂອງລາວ. ຖຳນ ນອນຢບານຈອມອງເຊງຢຫາງຈາກເມອງໄຊ ເຊງເປນເມອງຫວງຂອງແຂວງອດມໄຊ ປະມານ 45 ຫກ. ການຂບລດ ໄປບານນຈະໃຊເວລາປະມານ 2 ½ ຊວໂມງ ແລະໃນ ການເດນທາງ ລດຈະເຕນຫາຍສມຄວນ ເພາະສະພາບຫນທາງບດ.

ຖຳນຢຫາງຈາກບານປະມານໜງຊວໂມງຈງຈະ ຍາງໄປເຖງ ແລະ ເວລາຍາງໄປນນກຈະຜານ ທຳມະຊາດ ແລະ ທດສະນຍະພາບ ທໜາຊນຊມ.

luang PrabangMonk food offering

ຫວງພະບາງ

For a wonderful cultural experience, travelers can take part in the giving of alms to the monks at Luang Prubang. The

daily morning ritual is known as tak bat and is a historical tradition where monks receive food from kneeling laypeople that line the roads and place food offerings in the bowls held by the monks. The prac-tice takes place early in the morning, with those wishing to take part required to rise at around six in the morning.

The ritual offers both the monks and laypersons something in return for taking part. The monks receive sustenance, without the food of-ferings they would not be able to obtain their meals. The laypeople re-ceive spiritual assistance from the monks. The ritual therefore creates a spiritual connection between the monks and local communities.

ທຽວຊມຖຳຈອມອງ

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Photography by Gaid P. Kornsilapa

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Luang Prabang has around eighty temples and this means that there are a lot of monks who take part in the morning ritual. The monks’ bowls are strapped to their shoulders and people place their food offerings directly in the bowl. Monks are required to walk in meditation and therefore the whole process is carried out in silence, with people expected to not make a sound so as not to disturb the monk’s mediation.


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Visitors are more than welcome to take part in the ritual. Food should ideally be prepared by the person giving it away. Guesthouses may offer guests the option to purchase newly prepared sticky rice or other items of food. Unfortunately, the process has been capital-ized on by less scrupulous people and travel-ers should be prepared to avoid the local street vendors that will try and sell you food near the ritual. This food has been known to be of poor quality and to make monks ill. People should also be respectful with taking photos and should not treat the ritual as a tourist event. Monks are meditating so do not want cameras thrust in their faces.

ສຳລບປະສບການທາງວດທະນະທຳອນໜາອດສະຈນ ນກທອງທຽວສາມາດເຂາຮວມໃນການໃຫທານກບ ພະສງທຫວງພະບາງ. ພທກຳຕອນເຊາອນນ ເອນກນວາ ຕກບາດ ແລະກເປນປະເພນທາງປະຫວດສາດ ອນໜງ ເຊງບນດາພະສງຈະໄດຮບອາຫານຈາກບນດາຄາລະວາດທຄເຂາລຽນແຖວກນຕາມແຄມຖະໜນ ແລະ ປອນອາຫານໃສໃນບາດທພະສງອມຢ. ພທກຳນແມນເລມແຕເຊາ ຜທປະສງຈະເຂາຮວມຕກບາດ ແມນຕອງລກແຕປະມານຫກໂມງເຊາ.

ຕກບາດ

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sayabouryElephant Riding

ໄຊຍະບລ

The mystical Asian elephant has long been a symbol associated with Laos and for

hundreds of years Laotians have lived and worked with elephants. Undertaking a jungle trek on an el-ephant is a magical experience, allowing you to en-joy a cultural experience and soak up the sites and sounds of rural Laos. The elephant trekking takes place in the Sayaboury Province, which lies 2 ½ hours by car away from Laung Prabang.

Most tour operators adopt an ecological approach, using proceeds to fund conservation projects, medicine for the sick or elderly elephants as well as contributing to local villages. Tour guides and ma-houts (elephant drivers) are able to offer local knowl-edge and insights about all areas of the journey and guests are invited to get fully involved, learning commands for directing the elephant. Tour groups tend to be no more than six people per group as this allows for maximum safety and guide interaction.

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Photography by Justin Spelman

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xieng KhouangMegalithic sites

ຊຽງຂວາງ

Safety is an important issue. Only elephants suitable for human interaction are chosen, elephants will have a docile nature and ut-most respect for the mahout’s commands. A full security briefing is provided at the be-ginning of the trek and the equipment used for riding the elephant offer both comfort and protection.

Elephant trekking can be quite physically demanding. Between three and four hours a day is spent riding the elephant and the ter-rain can be fairly rugged. Those undertaking overnight excursions should be prepared for quite basic conditions. Sleeping is done in a tent and there are no western style toilets. Meals are provided and cooked using local, fresh ingredients. Equipment and baggage is carried by one of the elephants.

What the trek lacks in western comforts and luxuries it makes up for in magnificent scen-ery and cultural experiences. Elephant trek-king is something that for most is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and definitely not one to be missed.

ຊາງອາຊທມມນຂງ ເປນເຄອງໝາຍຕດພນກບລາວມາແຕດນນານຄນລາວກໄດ ຢ ແລະ ເຮດວຽກ ກບຊາງມາເປນຮອຍໆປ. ການຂຊາງເດນປາສາມາດເຮດໄດຢແຂວງໄຊຍະບລ ເຊງຂລດຫາງ ຈາກຫວງພະບາງ 2 ½ ຊວໂມງ. ຄນນຳທຽວ ແລະ ຄວນຊາງສາມາດໃຫ ຄວາມຮ ແລະ ຄວາມເຂາໃຈ ກຽວກບແຕລະເຂດທເດນທາງຜານ ແລະແຂກຈະໄດຮບເຊນໃຫມສວນຮວມ ຮຽນຮ ວທການບງຄບຊທາງໃຫຊາງ.

ຂຊາງ

The Plain of Jars is an area of Laos where over 90 sites con-taining megalithic stone jars can be found. The sites

are found in the province of Xieng Khouang and the amount of jars at each site varies from between 1 to over 400. Local history states that the jars were built by an ancient king called Khun Chenung who constructed them to store all the rice wine that was to be drunk after his victory against a race of giants. The sites are also places of burial with numerous remains having been found as well as other goods and ceramics.

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Visitors can view three of the sites, all of which have been made safe from unexploded ordnances. Reach-ing the sites can be done on foot or with the help of a local guided tour. The first site is known as Thong Hai Hin and is particularly popular due to the largest found jar (as of yet) being located there. The second site is called Hai Hin Phu Salato and boasts some magnifi-cent views of the surrounding landscape. The third site is called Hai Hin Lat Khai - here visitors will find over 150 jars and again some truly stunning scenery.

Taking a guided tour will offer visitors a chance to hear an in-depth guide about the history and culture asso-ciated with the sites, as well as information about the unexploded ordnances that unfortunately still exist.

Both in-depth historical study of the area and the pro-vision of tourism to The Plain of Jars have been lim-ited by the existence of unexploded arms, although a number of the sites have been made safe. Visitors are reminded to be careful of the jars at the sites and to be respectful at all times. Tourism pressures have led to some of the jars being damaged and it is important this is avoided in the future.

ທງໄຫຫນ ແມນເຂດໜງຂອງລາວທສາມາດພບເຫນໄຫຫນຂະໜາດໃຫຍ ຢປະມານ 90 ແຫງ. ສະຖານທນ ຕງຢແຂວງຊຽງຂວາງ ແລະ ຈຳນວນໄຫຫນໃນແຕລະແຫງແມນມຢລະຫວາງ1 ເຖງ 400 ອນ. ປະຫວດສາດທອງຖນໄດຈາລກໄວວາໄຫຫນເຫານແມນຖກສາງຂນໂດຍກະສດແຕສະໄໝດກດຳບນ ຊວາຂນເຈອງ ຜກໄຫຫນຂນເພອເກບຮກສາເຫາເຂາໜຽວໄວດມພາຍຫງໄດຮບໄຊຊະນະຈາກເສກຕານເຜາພນຍກ.

ປະຕມາກຳຫນຍກກອນປະຫວດສາດ

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ເກອບວາຈະເປນພທກຳສຳຄນອນໜງໃນຊວດ ສຳລບຜທມາຢຽມຢາມວງວຽງໄປແລວ ທຈະຕອງລອງຂ ກງເບງ. ມຊສຽງໃນໝນກທອງທຽວບສະເພາະແຕທວລາວ ແຕທວອາຊອາຄະເນ ການຂກງເບງ ແມນການນງເທງຢາງໃນລດໃຫຍທສບລມເຂາເຕມ ແລວລອຍຟລອງຕາມລຳນຳຊອງຢາງສະບາຍໆ. ກດຈະກຳນ ນຍມ ກນຫາຍ ແລະເປນທາງທດອນໜງທຈະໄດ ສງຄມ ແລະ ພບປະກບຄນໃໝໆ. ວງວຽງ ຢຫາງຈາກວຽງຈນ ສຊວໂມງທາງລດເມ ແລະ ປະມານແປດຊວໂມງຈາກຫວງພະບາງ.

ຂກງເບງ

Vang ViengTubing in Vang Vieng

ວງວຽງ

It is almost a rite of passage for those visit-ing Vang Vieng to try their hand at tubing.

Renowned by travelers throughout not only Laos but all over South-East-Asia, tubing is the act of sitting in a rubber, inflated ring and floating at a leisurely pace down the Nam Song River. The activity is very popular and is a great way to socialize and meet new people. Vang Vieng lies four hours by bus from Vientiane and around eight hours from Luang Prabang.

Bars line the banks of the river, and with so many, the competition for custom is high, meaning that tubers can often bag a bargain with the promotions on offer. Tubers can float serenely from bar to bar enjoying both a drink and the sun. A lot of the bars also offer high jumps from which you can take an adrenaline pumping plunge into the river and there are also zip wires and rope swings to try.

Tubes are usually rented from one of the companies close to the river. The cost is around 55,000 kip (about $7) and a depos-it of a similar amount will be required. The price covers transport up the river (usually about 3 to 4km) and then you can float back at whatever pace you choose. Dry bags can be rented to ensure your electronics and val-uables do not get water damage. You finish up back by the rental organization and drop back your tube to receive your deposit.

If stopping off at a bar, the tube will usually be stored in a pile and after a few drinks; tubes often go missing resulting in a lost de-posit, so try to keep an eye on your tube. Tubers should also be aware that the after-noon sun can be very strong so sun protec-tion should be worn, and that tubing after excessive drinking is not wise.

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VientianeCity visit

ວຽງຈນ

Vientiane is becoming one of those must visit capital cities in South-East-

Asia. With so many things to see and do, and let’s not forget taking in the unique atmosphere and enjoying the colorful local people with a spot of people watching. Because there are so many things to see in the city, we thought it would be a good idea to give you some valuable advice and recom-mend some sites for you.

Buddhism is just as important to Laos as it is to Thailand. A visit to Ho Phra Kaew Temple will give you a fascinat-ing insight to Laos Buddhism. The temple was originally constructed in 1565 for the Lao Royal Family, enjoying lus-cious temple gardens that are refreshing to stroll around. The temple was home to a sacred relic named the Emerald Buddha that now sits in Wat Phrakao in the Grand Palace in Bangkok.

8Photography by Gaid P. Kornsilapa

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Other sacred religious sites that need to be visited in-clude Wat That Luang and Wat Si Saket. Wat That Lu-ang and Wat Si Saket are two of the city’s most popu-lar temples with the former having a fabulous golden stupa, which is believed to be from the 3rd century, although it has been reconstructed many times since. Wat Si Saket is situated on Lan Xang Road and is fa-mous for its 2000 ceramic and silver Buddha images.

One of the most famous monuments in Laos is Patux-ai, which literally means ‘Victory Gate’, revered as a war monument in ode to those fighting against inde-pendence from the French. The monument was con-structed between 1957 and 1968, offering some great photo opportunities due to its architectural beauty.

Vientiane is a fascinating city, which should be thor-oughly explored when travelling through Laos.

ວຽງຈນກຳລງກາຍມາເປນນະຄອນຫວງທເປນຕາຢຽມຢາມທສດແຫງໜງຂອງອາຊຕາເວນອອກສຽງໃຕ. ພອມກບ ຫາຍສງທມໃຫຊມ ແລະ ກດຈະກຳທມໃຫເຮດ ທລມບໄດກແມນບນຍາກາດທເປນເອກະລກ ແລະການມວນຊນໄປກບຄນທອງຖນທມສສນ ບອນທສາມາດນງຊມວຖຊວດຂອງຄນທຜານໄປມາໄດ. ສະຖານທສຳຄນໃນວຽງຈນທຄວນໄປຊມມ ວດທາດຫວງ ວດສສະເກດ ຫພະແກວ ແລະ ປະຕໄຊ.ສະຖານທທໜາອດສະຈນເຫານ ຈະໃຫທານໄດເຂາໃຈເຖງ ວດທະນະທຳ ແລະ ສະຖາປດຕະຍາກຳຂອງລາວ ໄດຢາງເລກເຊງ.

ທຽວນະຄອນຫວງວຽງຈນ

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The naturally beautiful Vientiane Province offers visitors the

chance to kayak in the number of rivers that flow through its lands. Kayaking allows you to move off the beaten path and to see the natural beauty that Laos has to offer. If you’re looking to take a break from the social side of travelling through Laos and undertake an activity, Kayaking could be just what you are looking for.

By undertaking some kayaking, extreme sport adventurers can enjoy finding some harder-to-reach locations. Waterfalls, hidden caves and secret trails are all things kayak-ers can access. Kayak trips will often stop off at local villages where kayakers can en-joy the cultural experience of witnessing au-thentic village life. Some trips allow guests to combine kayaking with activities such as mountain biking and trekking.

Kayaking trips are offered along a range of rivers in the province. The Nam Son River, the Nam Lik River and the Nam Hinboun

River are three popular rivers for kayak tours. The kayaks themselves will usually seat two persons, reducing the physical demands on an individual and also offering someone else to be laughed at in the unlikely event you capsize!

A guide will accompany you on a kayak tour, giving you directions and pointing out notable landmarks. There are numerous tours, rang-ing in time length, natural scenery and also in how physically and technically challenging they are. Overnight trips are available for those with an adventurous spirit. Food will usually be provided by the company that you undertake the kayaking trip with. Transport to and from either Vientiane of Vang Vieng should also be provided.

Safety is obviously something that is of great importance and those looking to Kayak should spend some time reviewing the different opera-tors with which they can do a kayak tour. Do not be afraid to ask any questions and to check out the equipment before signing up.

VientianeKayaking and Rafting

ວຽງຈນ9

ແຂວງວຽງຈນທງດງາມທາງທຳມະຊາດ ມອບໂອກາດໃຫແກນກທອງທຽວ ໄດລອງເຮອກາຢກ ຕາມແມນຳຫາຍສາຍທໄຫຜານດນແດນແຫງນ. ການລອງເຮອກາຢກຈະພາທານເດນທາງໄປໃນປາລອມປຽວ ເພອຊມຄວາມສວຍງາມຂອງທຳມະຊາດທລາວມໃຫ. ຖາວາທານຫາກຢາກຫກໜຈາກການທອງທຽວ ເບອງສງຄມຜານລາວ ແລະເຮດກດຈະກຳອນໃດໜງແທນ ການລອງເຮອກາຢກອາດເປນສງທທານ ກຳລງຄນຫາກເປນໄດ.

ລອງເຮອກາຢກ ແລະ ລອຍແພ

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KhammouaneBoualapha Limestone Forest

ຄຳມວນ10

ປາຫນປນເມອງບວລະພາ ຕງຢໃນແຂວງພາກກາງຂອງລາວ ເຊງແມນແຂວງຄຳມວນທ ໂດດດຽວ ແລະ ບຄອຍມຄນຢຽມຢາມ. ສະເພາະໂຕປາເອງແມນນອນຢໃນເຂດປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດຫນໜາມໜ ເຊງຢຫາງຈາກວຽງຈນປະມານຫາຊວໂມງ. ປານ ເປນແຫງອາໄສຂອງເຄອງປາຂອງດງທໜາຕນຕາຫາຍຢາງ ທນກທອງທຽວສາມາດອອກສຳຫວດໄດ. ພາຍໃນປາ ນກທອງທຽວສາມາດ ເດນປາ ພາຍເຮອ ພກຢໃນ ໝບານທອງຖນ ແລະ ຊມວວນຳຕກອນສະຫງາງາມ.

ປາຫນປນເມອງບວລະພາ

Boualapha Limestone Forest is located in the isolated and rarely vis-

ited province of Khammouane in central Laos. The forest itself lies in the protected Hin Namno National Area which is about five hours away from Vientiane. The forest hosts a number of amazing natural features that visitors can ex-plore. Within the forest visitors can trek, kayak, stay at local villages and enjoy majestic waterfalls. The forest and gen-eral area has a remote and isolated feel and it is this that proves attractive to visitors looking to enjoy natural magnifi-cence whilst avoiding mass tourism.

Visitors should be prepared to turn their backs on western comforts and luxuries for their stay, instead enjoying the rustic and rural charms of life in the forest. Tours that take you to and around the forest are often multiple day tours, and nights are spent at home-stays in local villages. Facili-ties are basic, but the food is as fresh as you can get and it is a great way to immerse yourself in a new culture.

The Kong Lor Cave (Tham Kong Lor in Laotian) is a mag-nificent cave found within Boualapha Limestone Forest. The cave is formed by the Xe Bang Fai River when it cut its way through the limestone mountains in its path. Contained within the cave are numerous stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a truly breathtaking 100 meter high waterfall. Vis-itors can kayak or take a boat through 7.5 km of caves until exiting on the other side. Portions of the cave will require walking so remember to bring some sturdy footwear.

The wildlife and flora within the forest is stunning and the serenity and peace that visitors can enjoy is something that cannot fail to impress. Visiting Boualapha Limestone Forest and enjoying the sites that lie within it is something to be given consideration by anyone spending time in Laos.

Photography by Charles Ghommidh

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ChamPasaKTree Top Explorer

ຈຳປາສກ11

Set in the Dong Hua Sao mountain range, The Tree

Top Explorer is a concoction of zip wires, rope bridges and tree huts. It is an amazing way to view the for-est through which the adventure progresses and looking down at the below canopy is a wonderful experi-ence. The complex lies about an hour away from Pakse which is about ten hours by bus from Vientiane.

Visitors can stay overnight in one of the single room tree huts, which are basic yet comfortable. There are six huts in total and facilities provided in-clude mosquito nets, your own toilet as well as access to a hot (or cold) shower. Access to the huts is by zip wire and will probably be the most exciting way you ever gain access to a room! The rooms are made of flam-mable materials so candles and light-ers are strictly prohibited.

Safety is obviously a key issue. Equip-ment is new and of very high quality (all pieces of equipment are made by reputable international suppliers) and

the guides are all highly trained and are there to offer assistance at every step of the journey. The adventure should prove no problem for the vast majority of people and even those nervous of heights can consider giving it a try.

Unfortunately, the Dong Hua Sang region’s beauty and nature is slowly being reduced by the encroaching ef-fects of slash and burn farming, road construction and illegal hunting. The Tree Top Explorer operation is actively involved in preserving the local wildlife and engages with local communities, boosting the fight against deforesta-tion and illegal hunting. Power to the tree huts is provided by a totally en-vironmentally friendly generator that gets its power from a local waterfall and no trees were felled in the building of the facilities.

Great for groups of friends, team build-ing exercises or anyone looking for a bit of adventure and some stunning natural scenery, The Tree Top Explorer is an excursion you are sure never to forget.

ໂຄງການບານປາຍໄມ ຕງຢສາຍພດງຫວສາວ ແລະ ປະກອບດວຍອປະກອນນາໆຊະນດ ເຊນ ສາຍຊະລງ ຂວອ ແລະ ຕບເທງປາຍໄມ. ນແມນວທທມະຫດສະຈນໃນການຊມພຜາປາໄມ ເຊງເປນຈດເລມຕນຂອງການຜະຈນໄພ ແລະການແນມລງມາເຫນຜນປາຢເບອງລມ ກເປນປະສບການທອດສະຈນອນໜງ.

ໂຄງການບານປາຍໄມ ຢຫາງຈາກປາກເຊປະມານ ໜງຊວໂມງ ເຊງຕກເປນສບຊວໂມງຖາຂລດເມມາ ຈາກວຽງຈນ.

ໂຄງການບານປາຍໄມ

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ChamPasaKFull Moon at Vat Phou

ຈຳປາສກ

Each year on the third month of the lunar calen-dar, usually falling in February, the annual Wat

Phou festival takes place at the Wat Phou temple. The direct translation of Wat Phou is ‘temple in the mountains’ and the temple’s sites are truly breathtaking. The temple is highly sa-cred and people from all over Laos, and further afield, make the journey to the temple to celebrate the Lunar new year. The festival lasts for three days, each offering a range of activities to view and get involved in.

The festival offers a wonderful cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy the early morning alms giving ceremonies that take place where gifts are given to monks. In the evening there is a candlelit procession followed by the lighting of

ໂຄງການບານປາຍໄມ

ແຕລະປ ໃນເດອນທສາມຂອງປະຕທນຈນທະຄະຕ ເຊງກງກບເດອນກມພາ ບນນະມດສະການວດພ ຈະຖກຈດຂນ. ຄວາມໝາຍຕາມໂຕຂອງ ວດພ ແມນວດທຕງຢເທງພ ແລະສະຖານທແຫງນ ກໜາ ຕນຕາປະທບໃຈທສດ. ວດນສກສດຫາຍ ແລະຄນຈາກທວລາວ ທງຈາກດານແດນໄກ ກພາກນມາ ສະເຫມສະຫອງປໃໝຂອງຈນທະຄະຕ. ບນນແກຍາວຢສາມວນແຕລະວນແມນມກດຈະກຳຫາຍຢາງ ໃຫຊມ ແລະ ເຂາຮວມ.

ເດອນວນເພງທວດພ

12thousands of lamps. The temple is set away from the games and entertainment and visitors can make the walk to the temple where incense can be lit.

The festival is also fun and lively. Enjoy the spectacle of elephant racing or sit back and watch one of the many live music and traditional Laos dancing performances that take place. For those looking to pick up something to remember the festival by, there are numerous stalls selling handicrafts from the local region. There are sport-ing competitions which visitors can enter and compete in, all in the name of fun, and there are daily art exhibi-tions showcasing artwork from Laotian artists, as well as artists from surrounding South East Asian countries.

Visitors are most welcome at the festival, so do not be surprised if you are invited to sit with families at their picnic and share a bite to eat. For those looking for a cultural experience that incorporates some wonderful sites and lots of fun, a visit to the Wat Phou Festival is definitely in order.


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Lao

Ro

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Lao Spirit ResoRtSituated in the scenic Jungle in the Luang prabang region, Lao Spirit resort is the essential jungle retreat in this part of the world, offering nature lovers an untapped paradise to explore. The resort has five traditionally styled jungle bungalows created by local craftsmen and artists that give the resort a real authen-tic and back-to-nature flavor. Using lots of wood and stone, the main elements of the resort compliments that rain forest at-mosphere perfectly. The center of the resort consists of three restored 100 year old Laotian-French style buildings, which are the restaurant, reception and a former old salary house currently under renovation. If you want to experience an authentic slice of Lao rain forest, Lao Spirit is that special retreat that will make your dreams come true.

Xieng Lom, Luang Prabang, Laostel. +856 (0)30 5140111E-Mail: [email protected]

Situated in Southern Laos on the Boloven Plateau, this is one of the most beautiful spots in South-East-Asia. The resort overlooks the stunning Tad Fane waterfalls that thunders down a 200 meter gorge. positioned within the Dong Hua Sao jungle, enjoy your stay in the dense rain forest location. The resort has a total of 14 bungalow style ac-commodations that were renovated in 2005 and have new ceilings, floors and furniture that compli-ments the jungle terrain. The rooms have private bathrooms with hot water. Imagine waking up in the morning to the sound of the amazing Tad Fane waterfalls – it doesn’t get much real that that!

taD Fane ResoRt

Ban Lak 38, pakse - paxong roadChampasak, Lao PDR.phone: +856 20 553 1400Email: [email protected]

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44/3 Ban Wat Nong, Kham Kong Rd, Luang prabang, Lao pDrphone: +856 30 5 140 315 +856 20 6 032 365E-mail: [email protected]

KamU Lodge Situated on the stunning banks of the Mekong River and within the scenic heart of the Laotian jungle, Kamu Lodge is the ultimate jun-gle retreat where the balance of tourism and an eco-friendly ethos comes together to create some-thing really special. Located just 30km from Luang Prabang, the re-treat is easily accessed along the banks of the mekong. With 20 free-standing lodges, the rustic nature of Kamu Lodges’ accommoda-tions are just the ticket for those wishing to bask within the natural jungle scenery. Mixing sustainabil-ity and nature is what Kamu is all about, providing guests with an authentic and unique stay that is unparalleled across Laos.

Ban Khiet ngong (phu asa) Champasak Province, Lao P.D.R.tel: +856 (0)20 557 26 315Email:[email protected]

This family-run eco resort is located in the heart of the jungle in the Champasak province in Southern Laos, a place that is also referred to as the ‘Emerald Trian-gle’ due to it being a location where Laos, thailand and Cambodia meet. The retreat enjoys six double room stilt wooden bungalows and a selection of ‘Eco Rooms’ using traditional design values and natural materials to keep in line with the retreats eco-friendly ethos. this is a jungle retreat experience that will pro-vide you with a real and true rain forest atmosphere where you can relax and be at one with nature.

KingFiSHer ecoLodge

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Local Laos Flavors

LocaL Laos cuisine fLavors offer culinary delicacies that is more akin to thai food than any other cuisine type. enjoy our jour-ney to find local dishes that wiLL give you a fascinating insight into the eLements that make up laotian cuisine.

By John yates

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to Western friends who have never tried it, i usually describe laotian food as being ‘more like thai food than Vietnamese, but with elements of both.’ the more i use this description, however, the more aware i be-

come of how woefully inadequate the statement is, given laos’ great culinary diversity and the unique delicacies i encountered there. aw lam, Khai Penn and Jaew Bong, all specialties of luang Prabang, are examples of such dishes, which no visitor to the old royal capital should pass up.

On my first night in Luang Prabang, I ate dinner at one of the many outdoor eateries that line the city’s Mekong waterfront, along th. Khem Khong road. having read a little bit about the area’s special foods during the all-day bus ride up from Vientiane, i asked the waiter for one of each of the three dishes i had underlined in my book: aw lam, Khai Penn and Jaew Bong. several minutes later, all three were before me on the table. it was one of those rare mo-ments when i had to ask the man: how exactly do i eat this?

Khai Penn and Jaew Bong can best be described as laotian chips and salsa. the former is a special vari-ety of Mekong seaweed found in the luang Prabang area, which is usually sold and served in flat strips. it resembles Japanese nori, and is delicious when lightly fried in oil. When fresh, it crumbles in your mouth just like a potato chip, and has an herby taste similar to kale. Jaew Bong may look like a typical asian spring roll sauce, but there is much more to it than that. More like chutney than salsa, it is made with chili, salt, galangal, fish sauce, shallots, garlic, and, in addition to other ingredients your author can’t recall, water buffalo skin, which gives it a jelly-like texture. i was taught to dip the seaweed into the chutney and eat. Just one bite packs a powerful punch of flavors for which I have trouble finding a comparison.

At first glance, Aw Lam looks much like Thai boat noodle soup or Vietnamese Pho, but one taste of it was enough to convince me that it belongs in a category all its own. Beef, tendon, eggplant, chili peppers, garlic, galangal, lemongrass and scallions are some of the ingredients that i was able to taste and identify, but i was told that it also contained a special variety of watercress available only in luang Prabang, as well as other local herbs and spices. Many of the vegetables had a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the rich, brown broth, laden with more flavors than my taste buds could account for, made for a nice finish to the meal.

regardless of which sites you decide to see or skip while in laos’ world heritage city, be sure to add Khai Penn, Jaew Bong and aw lam to your list. that way, you can leave knowing you’ve had a unique, ‘only in luang Prabang’ experience.

ລດຊາດທອງຖນລາວອາຫານລາວ ແມນການປະສມປະສານ ທໜາສນໃຈ ທເວາໄດວາ ‘ຄາຍຄກບອາຫານໄທ ຫາຍກວາ ອາຫານຫວຽດນາມແຕມອງປະກອບຂອງທງສອງ’. ຍງໃຊນຍາມ ນຫາຍ ພວກເຮາຍງຮສກວາມນເປນ ຄຳເວາທບກພອງຢາງໜາເສາ ທງໆທອາຫານຂອງລາວນນ ມຫາກຫາຍ ແລະ ມຄວາມລະອຽດອອນ ສະເພາະຂອງແຕລະພາກທວປະເທດ. ເອາະຫາມ ໄຄແຜນ ແລະ ແຈວບອງ ຈານພເສດຂອງ ຫວງພະບາງ ແມນເປນຕວຢາງອນໜງ ທແຂກຢຽມຢາມເມອງຫວງເກາແຫງນ ບຄວນພາດ. ເມອຢຽມຢາມເມອງມລະດກໂລກຂອງລາວແຫງນ ບວາທານຈະຕດສນໃຈເລອກຊມສະຖານທໃດ ຫ ຕດສະຖານທໃດອອກກຕາມ ຢາພາດ ໄຄແຜນ ແຈວບອງ ແລະ ເອາະຫາມ ໃນລາຍການຂອງທານ. ເຮດແນວນນ ທານຈງຈະສາມາດຈາກໄປໂດຍທຮວາທານໄດຜານປະສບປະການກບສງທເປນເອກະລກ ສະເພາະ ພຽງແຕຢ ‘ຫວງພະບາງເທານນ’.

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Teeing-off for the fuTure

Story by: Ms. Puenjai Potepanao

As Luang Prabang gears up for the inaugural Lao Open 2012, golf tourism across the country is starting to bloom with more local people than ever before picking up the game.

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Golf has been blooming in Asia for the past decade and Lao will host its in-augural golf Championship entitled

“Luang Prabang Lao Open 2012”, scheduled for May 3 – 6, 2012 at Luang Prabang Golf Club, staring professional golfers from the South East Asian region.

Luang Prabang city, in conjunction with Asian PGA Tour, World Sport Group, Tropical Hospi-tality Management, Luang Prabang Golf Club, and Lao National Golf Federation will organize the first ever professional golf championship at the beautiful Luang Prabang Golf Club, which is one of the best 18-hole golf courses in Lao.

Golf in Laos maybe popular among the A-list, government officials, foreign investors and expatriates living and working in Lao, but golf tourists figures have also been on the rise dur-ing the past few years. Even though Laos is a landlocked country, the forested landscape and tropical climate is very favorable for the golf tourism industry. At present, Lao has only 6 standard Golf Courses throughout the country, while Dariya Saidara is the only country’s tour-ing Professional golfer, who competes in Thai-land and Asian Tours matches. He was also the winner of the longest drive trophy in Thailand at 323 yards. This homegrown event will offer him a chance to compete in his homeland for the first time. It will be a truly fascinating event for young Lao golfers to see such a good example, inspiring them to become professional golfers.

The inaugural “Luang Prabang Lao Open 2012” is the first stepping stone in golf devel-opment in Lao, while the country needs to pro-duce more professional golfers in the very near future to cope with the booming golf tourism industry in the South East Asian region. It is a long way to go for Laos, but we will keep a close eye on golf in Laos and will keep you updated of what develops in the future.

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Sabaidee Magazine were fortunate to catch up with Dr. Khampheng Saysompheng, the Governor of Luang Prabang to talk about the upcoming Luang Prabang Lao Open golf tournament and the impact it will have on tour-ism to this World Heritage City.

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Q: How do you see the “Luang Prabang Lao Open” helping to develop tourism in Luang Prabang?

A: It is a great opportunity to promote Laung Prabang City to the world throughout the me-dia and public relations activities. Mostly, it’s part of the “Visit Lao Year” campaign in 2012. The tournament will help enhance a visibility of Luang Prabang using both tourism and golf as a platform. Professional golfers will come from all over the world to compete in the tourna-ment, moreover many golf fans and tourists will be coming along to the city as well.

They will have a chance to see the World herit-age City beauty of Luang Prabang. It will help boost tourism in many ways, hotel business, MICE market and investment. Laung Prabang is very popular with Thai people, especially for the Northern part of Thailand, who are com-ing to Laung Prabang for various purposes i.e. meetings, seminars, company trips, co-activity for the 2 countries, sporting events and trading for OTOP products with province to province cooperation with Tumboon Katin and Pla Pa. Tourists can still see the rich culture and way of living of the Luang Prabang people.

The “Luang Prabang Lao Open” will help pro-mote the city to world.

Q: How many local golfers are in Luang Pra-bang or do they come from overseas?

A: It’s about 50:50. Lao has lots of local golfers but the other half comes from tourism. When they are visiting Luang Prabang city, some of them may play golf as part of the tour program. I know they will certainly enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Luang Prabang Golf Course, which is situated among luscious forest terrain, with the Mekong River as a spectacular back-drop. It is the most picturesque Golf course in Laos and well maintained within the stunning natural beauty. We expect the “Luang Prabang Lao Open” to bring great exposure to the city and Laos tourism in general – it’s an exciting time for all involved.

UP CloSe and PerSonal with

dr KhaMPheng SaySoMPhenggovernor of lUang Prabang

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Promises to take you on one of The Best Golfing Experiences in Asia!

Luang Prabang goLf CLub is a world class premier golf course located in Luang Prabang, Laos, and a UNESCO world heritage town. Situated just a 10-15 minute drive from the town center and Luang Prabang International Airport, the course is conveniently situated for easy access. Luang Prabang Golf Club is on the verge of hosting the Luang Prabang Lao Open, which is an ASEAN PGA Tour event, which just lets you know the quality of the courses and its facilities.

The hills and valleys overlooking the Great Mekong River provide a magnificent backdrop for this truly unique golf course, which is a highly strategic and challenging 18-hole, par 72-championship golf course set over 7,444 yards. There are spectacular views of the picturesque heritage town and the course layout is reminis-cent of an established mountain links.

The holes are both memorable and well designed, with undulat-ing fairways and well protected greens. Multiple varieties of trees, shrubs and natural vegetation add seasonal color to the verdant splendor of the golf course. Offering a great experience for every golfer regardless of one’s handicap, visitors to the course can really feel tranquility, harmony and the elegance of nature.

As Asia is becoming the place to be for golf tours and holidays, the 2012 Lao Open, due to be staged at the Luang Prabang Golf Club, is the perfect place to give the Laos Golfing Industry maxi-mum exposure, and what a better time to host your inaugural ASEAN PGA Tour Event than now!

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Luang Prabang Golf Club blends natural scenery into a stunning Golf Course terrain and all those associated with the golf club and Laos Golf in general are very proud and excited at this moment in time. “On behalf of Luang Pra-bang Golf Club, it is a true delight and honor to host an ASEAN PGA Tour event at Luang Prabang,” said Mr. Gang Pil Lee, CEO of Luang Prabang Golf Club. “I’m certain that the exposure will be phenomenal. I would like to thank the Laos Government, all the event organizers, sponsors and the Laos Golf Association. The Laos Open will provide an excellent opportunity to raise the profile of the beautiful and peaceful city of Luang Prabang, which is a wonderful tourist destination and also a great place to do business.”

If you want that peaceful getaway weekend in Laos with a spot of golf on a Championship Course, Luang Prabang city and the golf club is the ideal destination. The course is sec-ond to none throughout the country, and the city is a World Heritage site, so you couldn’t find a better place to spend a few days relaxing.

Luang Prabang Golf ClubAddress: Ban Houiphai, Phatamnai, Khet Sangkha Lok, Luang Prabang, Lao P.D.RTel: +856 55 571 182 Fax: +856 71 260 914Email: [email protected]

Mr. Gang Pil Lee

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MuayThe WholehearTed lao Way

By Ann Moey | Photography by Antoine Magnier

Although muAy thAi boxing is south-EAst-AsiA’s numbEr onE combAt nAtion, the Kwuanjai SiKhot Boxing gym in ViEntiAnE is A prospErous nurturing ground for muAy lAo fightErs

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Muay

Tucked away in a small dirt road just 2km west of Wattay International Airport, Vienti-ane, lies a little boxing gym in the backyard of a residential

house. Athough not the most accessible due to the 300 meters of unpaved grav-elly road leading to it, the Kwuanjai Sik-hot Boxing Gym somehow possesses a certain charm that is sure to captivate you. Unlike many muay (boxing) gyms in Thailand boasting modern equipment, this humble Lao gym possesses just the basics – a boxing ring, punching/kicking bags, skipping ropes, old box-ing gloves, a homemade wooden sit up bench and some rusty free weights. This, along with all the old photographs, news-paper articles and dusty trophies proudly displayed in the display cabinet, will awaken nostalgic feelings and make you feel as if you've been teleported back to the 1970s or 80s. Do not be fooled though by the looks of this simple gym. Since established 40 years ago, this same training ground has churned out numerous Muay Lao cham-pions, winning competitions in Laos and in the South-East Asian region including neighboring Thailand, touted to have the best fighters and competitions in the world. The whole joint is a family business. Since the passing of its founder, leg-endary Muay Lao Champion Mr Osa Koulavong, his daughter Mrs Soupata Kounlavong has taken over its helm with the help of her brother and head trainer, Mr Kampanard Kounlavong. Mrs Koun-lavong also doubles up as a seamstress, sewing and selling Muay Lao sports gear and her husband Mr Phoukhong Keovongsa helps out as a trainer.

AdditionAl info: Local fighters pay 600,000 kip per month to train at the gym from Mon-Sat while foreigners pay 75,000 kip per session.

Kwuanjai Sikhot Boxing GymTalat Sikhai Thong Neua , Unit 33, house number 196, block 1, VTE. Phone: +856 (0) 20 56632835.

Though training at the gym is tough, the overall atmosphere is still very much relaxed. Local fighters are always in high spirits, walking around with mis-chievous grins and teasing one an-other. It is common to see the whole gym break out in laughter as soon as someone cracks a joke. The training intensity and frequency at this Lao gym also differs to those in Thailand where fighters train all year round, tapering down during the off-season. These Lao fighters only train nearing competition and take a break when there are none. Sometimes, they also choose to take part in com-petitions when they are out of money and need to win some fights. It is in-deed this unique 'sabai sabai' spirit that makes the atmosphere in this Lao gym different from other top gyms in the region. Currently 20 male and female local fighters, aged 12-28 years old, and 5 foreigners train regularly at the gym. Older, more experienced fighters act as mentors and help younger fighters improve their technique while female fighters sometimes spar with the boys to get a more physical workout. For-eigners also have the opportunity to spar with the local top fighters. There is no separation between local and for-eign, male and female fighters. A typical training session goes for an hour and a half, consisting of 10-20 minutes of skipping, followed by 5 minutes of shadow boxing, 3 rounds of bag work and 5-10 minutes of pad work with the trainers. At 54 years old, head trainer Mr Kam-panard, who in his glory days won prestigious competitions in South-

East Asia, still packs one heck of a punch and gives younger fighters a run for their money. Mr Kampanard is very technical and watches over every fighter with eagle eyes, correcting eve-ry mistake as he sees them. The Kwuanjai Sikhot Boxing Gym is without a doubt one unique gym with plenty of character. Perhaps it’s the rustic-ness, the simple-ness, the fun-loving spirit of the fighters and trainers, or just the homely feeling that sets it apart from other gyms, but one thing's for sure, this gym is going to stay raw and un-commercialized for many years to come, giving people the rare oppor-tunity to learn Muay the wholehearted Lao way.

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-À«ò¤-¸È¾-¯½-Àê©--Äê-¥½-´ó-§ˆ¦¼¤-Ãນ-Àìœº¤¢º¤-¡òì¾-´ñ©-´¸¨-Í¾¨-ê†-¦÷©-Ãນ-Àº-À§¨-ª¾-À¸ñນ -ºº¡-¦È¼¤-ÃªÉÁªÈ-¦òì½¯½-´¸¨-¢º¤-ì¾¸-¡Ò-ÎÉ¾-¦ö -ນÃ¥-Í¾¨-ê†-¸¼¤¥ñນ Kwuanjai Sikhot ¡Ò-À¯ñ -ນ²¼¤£É¾¨-´¸¨-ê†-±ô¡´¸¨-ª¾´-Á®®-¦½®ñ®-¢º¤-¦òì½¯½¡¾ນ -ªÒ¦øÉ-Á®®-ì¾¸-À«ò¤-¸È¾-¥½-À¯ñ-ນ¦½«¾ນ-ê†-®Ò-ÍÑÍ¾-ÁªÈ-®ñນ ¨¾¡¾©-©ò®Å-¢º¤-£É¾¨-´¸¨-Á¹È¤-š¡Ò-¦½êÉºນ -Ã¹É-À¹ñ-ນÀ«ò¤-¡¾-ນÀ±ò¡±öນ-ê†-Àºö¾-¥ò¤-Àºö¾-¥ñ¤-Ãນ -¡¾ນ-ªÒ¦øÉ-¯½-À²©ນ-š-Áì½-¨ñ¤-ªÉºນ»ñ®-°øÉ-ê†-¦ö ນ-Ã¥-À¢í¾-´¾-»¼ນ»øÉ-´¸¨-ì¾¸-ºó¡-©É¸¨.

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The Ford everesTThere ain’T no mounTain high enough

ຟອດ ເອເວເລດ ໃໝບມພໜວຍໃດສງເກນເອອມ

ຟອດເປນຊຂອງລດຍນຄນນະພາບທ ຄນເຄຍກນດ ສຳລບຟອດເອເວເລດໃໝນນມາພອມຄນນະພາບທຍອດຍຽມ ກວາເດມດວຍເຄອງຍນ ຂະໜາດ 3.0 ລດ ແລະປະສດທພາບທຍອດຢຽມ ພອມຍງລດສຽງດງລງແລະການສນສະເທອນທນອຍລງແລະສງສຳຄນທຟອດບເຄຍລະເລຍຄການຂບຂທປອດໄພດວຍລະບບເບກ ABS ແລະ EBD ແລະໄຟທາຍທອອກແບບໃໝທສາມາດເບງເຫນແຈງຂນໃນເວລາກາງຄນ ໃນຍກທລດ SUV ກຳລງ ໄດຮບຄວາມນຍມ ຟອດ ເອເວເລດ ກເປນທາງເລອກນງທປະສມຄວາມແຂງແຮງກບຄວາມສະດວກສະບາຍ ແລະ ຄວາມຫຫາໄດຢາງລງຕວ.

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Ford is one oF those names that paints a picture oF reliability and aFFordability, while at the same time providing eager consumers with a well-made product, constructed to last the duration. The new Ford everesT is one oF their most solid vehicles to date and overall an interesting new product.

one of the first things you will notice about the Ford Everest is that is has the same chassis as the Ranger, so it would

be natural for you to believe it offers the same feel and ride. You couldn’t be further from the truth! The new Ford Everest has heightened riding dynamics when compared with the Ranger with its added weight and aerodynamics. The Everest gives the impression of sturdiness and does feel slightly heavy, however, this just adds to its stability.

Ford has installed new wheels on the Everest and low-profile 255/60R18 tires that give the vehicle a more rugged appearance and rough and ready persona. With a different look and new features such as side vents, tail lamps, a cool looking rear mount spare tire, a remodeled tailgate and puddle lamps under the door mirrors, you have something that moves the vehicle forward from those that went before.

The ergonomics of the front cabin do also look similar to the Ranger, but it is more spacious and much more airy. You will notice the space straight

away, especially in the leg room de-partment, which is great for the larger person, although the boot is slightly smaller. The interior also enjoys some subtle refinements with lighter fab-rics and fresh leather. The wood trim and the silver accents on the dash and door panels are stylish, while the leather that coats the steering wheel allows for better grip.

Driving in your new Ford Everest will be an entertaining experience with features that include a CD/MP3/AM/FM stereo with auxiliary input, an op-tional DVD/CD/MP3/iPod with 3-LCD screens, and a GPS-operated satel-lite navigation system, which always comes in handy in this day and age from one point to another safely.

The new 3.0-liter engine shows vast improvements over its predecessor and if you need to push the pedal to the mettle, you will be more than happy with the performance of the engine.

Another positive point of the Ever-est is the improvement of its noise and vibration control which became the main priority in its development. Safety, too, is one of the main con-

cerns of Ford, that’s why the Everest is equipped with antilock braking sys-tem (ABS), electronic brakeforce dis-tribution (EBD) and high-mounted tail lights that clearly signal your presence at night.

With the growing number of SUVs in the market, the Everest will definitely appeal to the buyers who are ready to consider the purchase of a more so-phisticated product—one which pro-vides versatility in its usage, refined vehicle dynamics, luxurious interi-ors as well as dazzling features and specs.

Lao ForD CiTY | Tel: 021 241 108, 244 408 | laofordcity.com5353

Pattaya golf is the leader of the packBy alan Wass

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Pattaya is rapidly becoming the epicenter for golf tour-

ism in South-East-Asia. With more than 20 golf courses within a 40-minute drive of Central Pattaya, it is hardly surprising that Pattaya is Thailand’s premier golf destination, for not only foreign visitors, but also Thai golfers. The thing that sets Pattaya apart from its competitors is the wide variety of courses, unparalleled services, great value for money green fees and an all-year-round tropical climate that really compliments a round of golf.

Pattaya has a fabulous selection of Champion-ship courses, with The Plantation Course and The Old Course at Siam Country Club, two of the very best in the region. Laem Chabang Inter-national Country Club, designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, is one of the finest courses in Asia, let alone Thailand. These three courses will cost 2,000 baht plus for green fees.

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Other courses that don’t quite fit the ‘Champion-ship Course’ mantle, but nevertheless are in won-derful condition and ensure a fantastic round of golf are Phoenix GC, St. Andrews 2000, Bangpra Golf Club and Khao Kheow GC, all of which would cost around the 1,000baht – 2,000baht range.

For those golfers who want to play nice scenic courses that are challenging but want great value for money should look to play Greenwood GC, Emerald GC or Plutaluang Thai Navy Course. These courses will cost you anywhere from 500baht – 1,500baht for green fees. One should also remember that golf in the weekdays is con-siderably cheaper than at the weekend.

Experience a golf holiday in Pattaya, and I can as-sure you that it will be a paradise for golfers of all levels because Pattaya has pretty much some-thing for everyone.

adver tor ia l

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Interview withItthiphol Kunplomethe Mayor of PattayaSabaidee Magazine was fortunate enough to catch up with the Mayor of Pattaya, Khun Itthiphol Kunplome, on the eve of the LPGA Honda tournament at Siam Country Club to discuss Pat-taya’s award winning golf scene.

What kind of efforts have gone into making Pattaya one of the best places for golf?We always strive to bring international golf tournaments to Pat-taya, as you can see with the LPGA Honda tournament at Siam Country Club and the Singha Thailand Open. Everyone is firmly behind the Pattaya golf scene and always encourage interaction between visitors to Pattaya and the host of local golf courses we have in the region.

How do you think this award can help promote tourism in Pattaya?Winning the ‘Golf Destination of the Year 2012 for Australasia and Asia’ is a massive award for Pattaya, especially when you bear in mind the popularity of golf in Asia and Australasia. We are very proud of this accolade, especially because our competitors for the award were Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam and Malaysia, and here is Pattaya, just a city winning against these massive nations.

What are the advantages for golfers coming to play in Pattaya?This one is very simple – Pattaya has everything you could ex-pect from Thailand’s most visited beachside destination. When tourists are not playing golf on one of the 20 golf courses within a 40-minute drive of Central Pattaya, we have the best 5-star re-sorts, lots of things to see and do, which is great for families as the golfers in the family can play a round or two while their travelling companions have lots of options such as shopping, beaches and lots of attractions.

Are there any world-class golf events to be held in Pattaya?Just two weeks ago in February, Siam Country Club hosted the Honda LPGA tournament, which was a resounding success. We also host the Singha Thailand Open every year. We are also due to host the ASEAN Pacific Golf Summit this year.

Would you like to say something to readers of Sabaidee Magazine in Laos?I would like to invite Sabaidee Magazine readers to Pattaya to play some fantastic rounds of golf in, which is now, one of top Asia’s award-winning golf destinations. We are already trade partners with Laos and joint ASEAN members, so we already have a very strong relationship that we always look to build upon.

57

Sab

aid

ee R

ela

x

The Spaat Kiridara Relaxation in Luang PrabangSituated at the UNSCO World Herit-age site of Luang Prabang, the Kiridara Spa is situated in the resort of the same name. The spa is the epitome of luxury and style, offering you the chance to be pampered like a movie star and to revital-ize your mind and body – you deserve it!

Experience one of Laos’ most time hon-ored cleansing traditions - the herbal steam bath. Using herbs grown and nur-tured within the grounds of our spas own medicinal garden, the treatment takes therapeutic bathing to extraordinary lev-els of luxury.

The treatments are thoughtfully created to rebalance body, mind and spirit cap-turing the essence of Kiridara. A holistic approach synergizes the wish to offer authentic, skillfully delivered spa treat-

ments which continue to evoke a reviving experience long after your visit. The spa products used are locally sourced and blended, supporting Kiridara's ethos of sustainability whilst nurturing indigenous crafts and artisans.

Whether refreshing the body before the signature NUAT BOUHAN massage, combining in an afternoon of body scrub, steam and massage decadence at The Spa or simply wishing to cleanse and tone the body during your stay.

If you are travelling through Luang Pra-bang and are in need of an afternoon of relaxation, a session at the Kiridara Spa will be instrumental in replenishing your body and strengthening your mind to keep you in tiptop shape during your travels.

Kiridara Spa22/13 North road,Ban Naviengkham

Luang prabangLao pdr

phone: +856 (0)71261888Website: www.kiridara.com

59

Map Of Laos60

Laos is quickly becoming the newest place to visit in South-East-Asia. Although in the past when travelling across the sub-continent has been mentioned, tourists have been recommended to visit famous places such as Bangkok in Thailand or Angkor Wat in Cambodia, Laos has rarely been mentioned. People are now starting to realize Laos is a viable tourist destination, with the shroud of ignorance now being lifted. Part of the problem was that Laos was fairly isolated due to having a communist government, which became left out on its own in a tourism sense since the government took power in 1975.

Recently, the mentality towards Laos has been changing and the world is starting to recognize and rediscover its beauty, culture and colorful local people. Now being mentioned in the same breath as its neighbors, Laos is also making great strides to accommodate tourists from far and wide.

Laos... GettinG thereLao shares official land borders with Thailand, Vietnam and China, although you will find that some of the borders are not accessible to westerners, such as to China through a crossing point named Boten. The Laos-Vietnam borders of Dien Bien Phu and Sam Neua in the north are also closed.

By PlaneBangkok is the main link to Laos, and has flights to both Vientiane and Luang Prabang. However, you can also fly into Laos on regular flights from Cambodia and Vietnam, which means you can fly into the three neighboring countries from anywhere in South-East-Asia and make the quick hop over to Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport.

By TrainOne of the most popular ways to visit Laos is by train. This is a great option if travelling from Bangkok on Thailand’s north-eastern line from Hua Lampong Railway Station in Bangkok (Tel: 02223-7010 or 1690). Travelling from Bangkok north-wards, the train connects with all the major provincial capitals and finishes up in Nong Khai, which is in Thailand but right next to Vientiane. It is also possible to reach southern Laos at Pakse via Bangkok and the Thai terminal at Ubon Ratchathani. From Ubon, you will have to take two bus rides to get to the border, and then a songthaew from there to Pakse.

By BusYou can travel on an overnight VIP air-conditioned bus from Bangkok to Vientiane for approximately 700 THB, via Friend-ship Bridge, which will leave you on the Thai side of the border. Buses from north-eastern Thai cities such as Nong Khai and Udonthani will also take you to the Thai border via Friend-ship Bridge for 55 THB and 80 THB respectively.

By BoaTYou can make the crossing on the Mekong River from Chiang Khong in Thailand and from the border to Luang Prabang it is a two-day boat ride, where a 15-day visa is available on arrival.

enTry requiremenTsYou will need a valid visa and passport when entering Laos, although there are some sites where you can get a visa on ar-rival such as travelling by air to Vientiane and Luang Prabang, crossing Friendship Bridge to Vientiane from Nong Khai. Other places you can get a visa on arrival includes the crossing from Chiang Khong to Houayxai, Savannakhet and Vung Tao. If you are traveling from Vietnam, make sure you have prearranged your visa. For a 30-day visa, you will pay 30USD. However, if you organize a visa in an embassy outside of Laos, expect to pay approximately 35USD. For more details, please visit www.laoembassy.com

Visitor informationIf you are looking for basic brochures on Lao tourism, you can contact the Lao Tourism Authority, which is more of an administration service than an information source.

NatioNal tourism authority of lao P.D.r., 08/02 Lane Xang Ave., P.O. Box 2511,Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. (tel. 021/212-248or 021/212-251; fax 021/212-769;www.tourismlaos.gov.la

If you are seeking written English information about Laos, you can try the official Laos website, www.visit-laso.com, which is sponsored by the Lao government. The website is very informative and accurate, providing you with lots of details regarding the country. For international news, domestic currentand government affairs, you can visit www.laoembassy.com, which is run by the Lao Embassy in Washington, D.C.

for Details of the lao embassy iN thailaND, Please see below:520/502/1-3 Soi Sahakarnpramoon,Wangthonglang, Bangkok 10310,Pracha Uthit Road (end of Soi Ramkhamhaeng 39) Tel: 539-6667-8 or 539-7341;Fax: 539-3827 or 539-6678;www.bkklaoembassy.com

61

Visit• Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)• Patuxai• Laos National Museum• That Dam• That Luang• Ho Phakeo• Wat Sisaket• Wat Si Muang• Mekong promenade & night market

As the capital of Laos, Vientiane is a must see city when traveling through Laos PDR. Vientiane

became the capital in 1563 because of fears surrounding Burmese invasion. Under French rule, Vientiane became the administrative capital while in recent times has also become the economic hub of the country. Sitting on the northern banks of the Mekong River, the city has a colorful culture, amazing hospitality and is the home to some of the tastiest Laos food imaginable. With its French colonial characteristics and leafy boulevards surrounded by rustic temples and coconut palms, this is a city that mixes colonial architecture within a tropical environment. The laidback atmosphere is ideal for visitors, and is rapidly becoming one of the most fascinating cities to see in Asia.

Vientiane...

62

Dine OutAmphOneCuisine: Lao

(856) 21 212489

CAfé Des ArtsCuisine: French

(856) 71 252162www.cafedesartslaos.com

Chill Out CAféCuisine: Lao/International

(856) 71 261006

ChOkDee CAféCuisine: Belgian

(856) 21 263847

DOuAng Deune restAurAntCuisine: Asian

(856) 21 241154

hAre AnD hOunDCuisine: Western

(856) 20 6302616

khOp ChAi DeurestAurAnt AnD BArCuisine: Western

(856) 21 251564www.khopchaideu.com

lA Belle epOqueCuisine: French

(856) 21 217581www.setthapalace.com

le CentrAlCuisine: French

(856) 21 243703

lA signAtureCuisine: FrenchContact:v (856) 21 213514

l’OperACuisine: Italian

(856) 21 215099

mex AlexiACuisine: Tex-Mex

(856) 21 241349

mittAphAp restAurAntCuisine: Lao

(856) 21 264444

stiCky fingersCuisine: Western

(856) 21 215972

the COte D’Azur pizzeriACuisine: French

(856) 21 217252

the full mOOn CAféCuisine: Western

(856) 21 243373

shOpBAri gems & JewelryStyle: Jewelry

(856) 21 212680

CArterie Du lAOsStyle: Handmade cards and prints

(856) 21 241401

COuleur D’AsieStyle: French-Vietnamese dress designs

(856) 21 223008

phAeng mAi gAlleryStyle: Traditional weaved silk items

(856) 21 217341www.silk-phaengmai.laopdr.com

sAtri lAO silkStyle: Antique silk, jewelry, furniture

(856) 21 219295www.satrilao.laopdr.com

BeDsAngkhAm hOtel

(856) 21 [email protected]

AnsArA hOtel (856) 21 213514-8

[email protected]

DOn ChAn pAlACe (856) 21 244288

[email protected]

lAO plAzA hOtel (856) 21 222741-42, 218800-1

Fax: (856) 21 222740, [email protected]

merCure VientiAne (856) 21 213570-1

[email protected]

pArkView exeCutiVesuites Vientiane


rAshmi’s plAzA hOtel, VientiAne


sAlAnA BOutique hOtel (856) 21 254254

[email protected]@salanaboutique.comwww.salanaboutique.com

setthA pAlACe hOtel (856) 21 217581

[email protected]

the rAmAyAnAgAllery BOutique hOtel


VientiAne plAzA hOtel (856) 21 265365

[email protected]

www.setthapalace.comE-mail: [email protected]

6 Pang Kham Street, Vientiane, Lao PDR

Tel: (856) 21-217581/2 • Fax: (856) 21-217583

A Belmont International Hotel

Colonial Charm,Luxurious ElegancerelAx

ChAmpA spASignature: Traditional Lao Massage

(856) 21 2640978

DAlAh spASignature: Hot Herbal Massage

(856) 21 285125

DAlAVAnhtrADitiOnAl mAssAgeSignature: Traditional Lao Massage

(856) 21 213313

mAnDArinA BODyAnD sOul spASignature: Herbal Massage

(856) 21 223857

mAnee spASignature: Traditional Lao Massage

(856) 21 353207

nirVAnA spASignature: Lao Traditional Massage

(856) 21 222936www.nirvana-spa-laos.com

OAsis spA mAssAge & BeAutySignature: Traditional Lao Massage

(856) 21 243579

pApAyA spA lAne xAngSignature: Exclusive bodyand facial treatments

(856) 20 55610565www.papayaspa.com

64

Visit

• Tham Poukham - Blue Lagoon• Padeng cave and Ring cave• Jung Cave

Do• Tubing and Kayaking the river• Sunset cruise• Biking

situated between Vientiane and the World Heritage site of

Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng was once nothing more than a bus stop for those visiting Vientiane from Luang Prabang. Now Vang Vieng is a destination in its own rights with a laidback and relaxed atmosphere nestled beside the Nam Song (Song River) surrounded by beautiful limestone Karst terrain. ºWith its stunning countryside and its old charm style, this is a colorful destination.

BeDsD’Rose ResoRt@Vang Vieng

(856) 23 511035droseresortatvangvieng@yahoo.comwww.drosehotelvientiane.com

thaVonsouk ResoRt (856) 23 511096, 414149

Mob: +(856) 20 7607111, [email protected]

the elephant CRossing hotel (856) 23 511232,

Mob: (856) 20 5602830 or 2454730info@theelephantcrossinghotel.comwww.theelephantcrossinghotel.com

Vansana Vang Vieng (856) 23 511598-9, 511600-1

[email protected]

Villa nam song (856) 23 511637

[email protected]

Villa Vang Vieng RiVeRsiDe (856) 23 511460

[email protected]

Vang Vieng Dine outaRena RestauRant anD BaRCuisines: Hamburgers

(856) 20 78181171

aysha inDianCuisines: Indian

(856) 23 511369

eRawan RestauRant (856) 23 511093

kangaRoo sunset BaRCuisines: Local

(856) 20 7714291

nishaCuisines: Indian

(856) 23 511579

oRganiC mulBeRRy FaRm CaFeCuisines: International

(856) 23 511174

sala pha DengCuisines: Local & International

(856) 23511232

Xayoh RestauRantCuisines: Local

(856) 23 511088

Naga Clinic offers a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis, management and treatment of cardiovascular disease by a team of cardiac specialists from

Bangkok Heart Hospital led by Dr. Ratanapunt Incharoensakdiwho has been in the field for 30 years.

215/15 Udon Dusadee Road, Mak Khaeng, Muang, Udon Thani 41000 ThailandTel : +66 (0) 42 205033, +66 (0) 42 205088

HeartWe Care

akWk Wtpa[d

Your

www.nagaclinic-udon.com

Naga Clinic

Champasak& Pakse

66

As the capital city of Champasak, Pakse is an important city in southern Lao used as a hub by travellers to

explore the south. Situated where the rivers of the Me-kong and Se-Done meet, the city has stunning views and scenery regardless of your reasons for visiting the region, be it business or pleasure. Flowing from the Thai city of Ubon Ratchathani, you now have the opportunity to explore the Bolaven Plateau, Xe Pian National Protected Area, Wat Phu and Si Phan Don. As the influx of visitors to Pakse increases, the city has become a place for a wide range of guesthouses and hotels, allowing you to stay in the city for a few days and absorb the unique atmosphere of the region.

AttrActions• World Heritage Site of Vat Phou• Si Pan Don (Four Thousand Islands)• Pha Pheng Waterfall• Pha Suam Waterfall• Tad Yueng Waterfall• Tad Fane Waterfall• Coffee & tea plantations

Dine outBolAven cAfeCuisine: Coffee & bakery

(856) 31 212380www.bolavenfarms.com

cAfe sinoukCuisine: Coffee

(856) 31 214716

le PAnorAmACuisine: French

(856) 31 212131www.paksehotel.com

chAmPADyCuisine: Thai

(856) 020 513 0513

JAsmine restAurAntCuisine: Indian

(856) 31 251002

ketmAny restAurAntCuisine: European

(856) 31 212615

khem khong restAurAntCuisine: Lao & seafood

(856) 31 213240

XuAn mAi restAurAntCuisine: Lao

(856) 31 213245

BeDsPAKSE

ArAwAn riversiDe hotel (856) 31 2603 4550

[email protected]

chAmPAsAk grAnD hotel (856) 31 255111-8, 260211

[email protected]

chAmPAsAk PAlAce hotel (856) 31 212263, 212777-80,

[email protected]

mekong PArADise resort (856) 31 212120

[email protected]

PAksé hôtel (856) 31 212131, 31 252 993

[email protected]

resiDence sisouk (856) 31 214716

[email protected]

sAlAchAmPAhotel & restAurAnt

(856) 31 212 273www.salachampahotel.com

sinouk coffee [email protected]

vAt Phou cruises (856) 31 251446

www.vatphou.com

chAmPAsAk guesthouse (856) 20 77131945

inthirA hotel (856) 31 214059

[email protected]

kingfisher ecoloDge (856) 20 557 26315,

20 996 71574 [email protected]

lA folie loDge (856) 30 5347603

[email protected]

CHAMPASAK

67

Situated in western Laos, Savannakhet, officially known as Kaysone Phomvihane, is the capital of

the Savannakhet province and the second-largest city in the country, after Vientiane. With a mixed population of Thai, Vietnamese and Lao people, the old French colonial quarter of the town sits on the banks of the Mekong River. Because of the city’s close proximity to Thailand and their booming economy, Savannakhet has benefitted from lots of commercial development in the northern part of town. The city is home to a 15th century Buddist temple, named Wat Sainyaphum. Showing the city’s diversity, there is also a Catholic Church, a Chinese temple and a mosque.

Savannakhet

Dine OutCafe anakOtCuisine: Fusion


Café Chez BOuneCuisine: European & Thai/Lao


DaO Savanh ReStauRantCuisine: French

(856) 41 260888

LaOS PaRiS ReStauRantCuisine: Lao, Vietnamese, French

(856) 41 212792

LaO DeRm ReStauRantCuisine: Lao, Thai

(856) 41 252142

the mOOnLight CaféCuisine: Western

(856) 30 531 5718

BeDSDaOSavanh ReSORt & SPa

(856) 41 252188, 252199Mob: (856) 20 58515555,5888 5263, 2335 [email protected] www.daosavanhhtl.com

hOOngthiP hOteL (856) 41 251279, 213229,

[email protected]

Leena’S gueSthOuSe (856) 41 212404

nOngSODa gueSthOuSe (856) 41 212522.

PhOuLavane gueSthOuSe (856) 30 9671606

Savan vegaS hOteL & CaSinO (856) 41 252 200

[email protected]@savanvegas.comwww.savanvegas.com

XayamOungkhOungueSthOuSe

(856) 41 212426

68

Sabaidee Club

2 vouchers worth 150,000K each

for dinner at Tropical Garden Authentic Thai Restaurant

1 voucher for 1 night stay

for one room at luang Prabang

Oasis Hotel

2 vouchers for 1 hour traditional

massage at dhammada

Massage Oasis

Want to subscribeto sabaidee Magazine?

call us at

071 252 933For details oFsubscription plan

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been ever

to laos?

Share photos from your wonderful trip in Laos with a brief caption and take the chance to win a free hotel and restaurant voucher for the selected winning photos. Send your photos to:[email protected]

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Luang PrabangLuang Prabang is a protected UNESCO World Heritage site situated on the peninsula formed by the

Mekong River. Although Luang Prabang is a small city, there are many things to see and do for travelers. Benefitting from a stunning collection of French colonial buildings alongside some very old temples and Buddhist monuments, Luang Prabang is a great example of how traditional Lao architecture and 19th century colonial styles merge together to create a fascinating and colorful travel experience. Surrounded by mountains and set 700 meters above sea-level where the Nam Khan River and the Mekong River meets, the city is rapidly becoming the center of Laos’ new found tourist popularity.

The city boasts many old temples and Buddhist monuments with one of the most famous being Pha That Luang. The original was constructed in 1566 and restored in 1953. The 45-meter high golden stupa is where a relic of Lord Buddha himself is believed to sit. With everything from royal palaces to 33 temples, the city is a perfect destina-tion for travellers seeking out Buddhist teachings or a slice of authentic Asia.

Luang Prabang is home to both historical sites and natural beauty. If you want to see some breathtaking natural sites, you can visit Pak Ou Caves or Kuang Si Falls. Visitors also enjoy elephant rides along jungle treks. Well known historical sites include Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum and the Wat Xieng Thong temple. When you reach the end of the main street, you will find the night market with a colorful selection of bracelets, shirts, tea and standard tourist souvenirs.

With tourism to Lao now reaching new heights, Luang Prabang is the premier destination in the country because of its interesting mix of culture, history and laidback atmosphere.

70

Dine OutBlue lagOOn RestauRantCuisine: Western

(856) 71 253698www.blue-lagoon-cafe.com

COuleuR CaféanD RestauRantCuisine: Lao/French

(856) 71 254694

l’elephant RestauRantCuisine: French

(856) 71 252482www.elephant-restau.com

luang pRaBang BakeRyCuisine: Western

(856) 71 252499www.luangprabang-bakery-guesthouse.com

nazim RestauRantCuisine: Indian

(856) 71 252263www.nazim.laopdr.com

paRk hOuay mixayCuisine: Lao

(856) 71 212260

tamnaklaO - the thReeelephants RestauRantCuisine: Lao

(856) 71 252525

the apsaRaBaR & RestauRant Cuisine: Asian/International

(856) 71 254670

the tamaRinD CaféCuisine: Lao

(856) 20 7770484www.tamarindlaos.com

tROpiCal gaRDen RestauRantCuisine: Thai(856) 71 212642www.luangprabangoasis.com

Vieng kheam khOngCuisine: Lao

(856) 71 212726

shOpsBaan khily galleRyStyle: Handmade Lao handicraftsLocation: 43/2 Baan Khily,Luang Prabang

(856) 71 212261

kOpnOiStyle: Fashion, accessories, silkLocation: Ban Aphay Luang Prabang

(856) 71 260248www.kopnoi.com

naga CReatiOnsStyle: Jewelry, precious stones, silverLocation: Th Sisavangvong, Old Town

(856) 20 7775005

OCk pOp tOkStyle: Home textiles,village weaving products, scarvesLocation: 73/5 Ban Vat Nong

(856) 71 253219

pathana BOuphaantique hOuseStyle: Antique statuary,jewelry, silverwork,Location: 26/2 Ban Visoun,Luang Prabang

(856) 71 212262

RelaxDhammaDa massage OasisSignature: Traditional Lao Massage

(856) 71 212642

khmu RestauRantspa & massageSignature: Lao and Khamu Massages

(856) 71 212092

kiRiDaRa spaSignature: Herbal Steam Bath

(856) 71261888www.kiridara.com

laO ReD CROsssauna anD massageSignature: Herbal Sauna

(856) 71 252856

lemOngRass saunaanD tRaDitiOnal massageSignature: Herbal Sauna

(856) 20 5597370

RamayanaBOutique hOtel & spaSignature: Traditional Lao Massage

(856) 71 255055

the mekOng spaSignature: Aromatherapy Massage

(856) 71 212194

BeDsanCient luang pRaBang

(856) 71 212264 [email protected]

hOtel 3 nagas (856) 71 253888

[email protected]

hOtel De la paixluang pRaBang


hOtel Villa Deux RiVieRes (856) 20 7737 8575

[email protected]

kamu lODge (856) 71 260319

[email protected]

kiRiDaRa hOtel (856) 71 261888

www.kiridara.com

le Bel aiR BOutique ResORt (856) 71 254699, 213079

Mob: (856) 20 22350 [email protected] www.lebelairhotels.com

la RésiDenCe phOu VaO (856) 71 212194 or 212530

[email protected]

le palais Juliana (856) 71 260417

[email protected]

luang pRaBang OasisVilla namnuea

(856) 71 212642, [email protected]

luang pRaBangpaRaDise ResORt

(856) 71 213103,20 235 3337, 20 389 5885contact@luangprabangparadiseresort.comwww.luangprabangparadiseresort.com

luang pRaBang ResiDenCe (856) 71 260699, 260676

[email protected] www.luangprabangresidence.com

maisOn DalaBua (856) 71 255588 , 253923

[email protected]

maisOn sOuVannaphOum (856) 71 254609

[email protected]

muang thOng hOtel (856) 71 254976

[email protected]

my DReamBOutique ResORt

(856) 71 252853, 252198 [email protected]

Rama hOtel (856) 71 212247

[email protected]

RestauRantluang pRaBangBakeRy & guest hOuse

(856) 71 252499, 71 [email protected] www.luangprabang-bakery-guesthouse.com

santi ResORt & spa (856) 71 252157, 212267

[email protected]

satRi hOuse Relais& Chateaux hOtel


shinta mani hOtel (856) 71 260560

www.shintamani.com

the apsaRa RiVe DROite hOtel (856) 71 254670

[email protected]

the BelleRiVe hOtel (856) 71 260733, 252488

[email protected]

the Chang heRitage hOtel (856) 71 255031

[email protected]

the gRanD luang pRaBanghOtel & ResORt


the luang say ResiDenCe (856) 71 260891

E-mail: [email protected]

the View paViliOn (856) 71 253918

[email protected]

Villa maly (856) 71 253902-04

[email protected]

Villa nagaRa (856) 71 252829

Mob: (856) 20 555 [email protected]

xiengthOng palaCe (856) 71 213200

[email protected]

zen namkhanBOutique ResORt

(856) 20 555 71120www.zennamkhanresort.com

71

Udonthani

Bangkok, Thailand

Singapore

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Phnompenh, Cambodia

Pakse

Siemreap, Cambodia

Danang, Vietnam

Chiangmai, Thailand

Houeisay

Jinghong, ChinaKunming, China

Guangzhou, China

Seoul, Koreawww.laoairlines.com

Internation RouteFuture RouteDomestic RouteCode Sharc RouteAirport

Vienetiane

Savannakhet

LuangnamthaOudomxay

Xiengkhouang

Hanoi, Vietnam

Luang Prabang

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136136

13571357

VTE BKKVTE BKKVTE BKKVTE BKKVTE BKKBKK VTEBKK VTEBKK VTEBKK VTEBKK VTE

VTE HANVTE HANHAN VTEHAN VTE

VTE PNHPNH VTE

VTE REPREP VTE

VTE SINSIN VTE

VTE SGNSGN VTE

VTE KMG KMG VTE

LPQ CNXCNX LPQ

LPQ JHGJHG LPQ

LPQ BKKBKK LPQ

LPQ REPLPQ REPREP LPQREP LPQ

LPQ HANLPQ HANHAN LPQHAN LPQ

PKZ REPPKZ REPREP PKZREP PKZ

ZVK BKKBKK ZVK

PKZ SGNSGN PKZ

PKZ BKKBKK PKZ

07:3016:1516:4013:5021:5009:3518:5518:5511:4519:55

15:1519:3517:2509:40

11:3017:30

06:3010:05

15:4020:40

08:3013:30

07:2010:50

13:1015:05

11:2013:00

07:3010:20

10:5510:2015:0012:20

14:2517:1008:3518:50

08:2513:2010:0515:00

10:3013:05

10:5513:30

09:2513:05

08:3517:5017:5014:5522:5510:4520:4020:0512:5521:05

16:2520:3518:3510:45

13:0018:50

09:2513:00

19:4022:40

12:3017:30

09:5011:20

14:1016:05

12:2014:00

09:1012:00

14:2011:4018:1013:40

15:1518:1009:3519:50

09:2514:2011:0516:00

12:0014:35

12:3015:05

12:0015:35

320AT7320734734320AT7320734734

320320320320

320320

AT7AT7

320320

AT7AT7

320320

AT7AT7

AT7AT7

AT7AT7

AT7F70AT7F70

F70AT7F70AT7

AT7AT7AT7AT7

MA6MA6

AT7AT7

MA6MA6

0000000000

0000

00

PKZPKZ

00

PKZPKZ

00

00

00

00

PKZ0

PKZ0

0000

0000

00

00

ZVKZVK

FLT No Days Routing Dep Arr AC STP

INTERNATIONAL ROUTES TIMETABLEValid from 25 Mar 2012 to 27 Oct 2012

VIENTIANE - BANGKOK - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - HANOI - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - PHNOMPENH - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - SIEMREAP - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - SINGAPORE - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - HOCHIMINH - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - KUNMING - VIENTIANE

LUANGPRABANG- CHIANGMAI - LUANGPRABANG

LUANGPRABANG - JINGHONG - LUANGPRABANG

LUANGPRABANG - BANGKOK - LUANGPRABANG

LUANGPRABANG- SIEMREAP - LUANGPRABANG

LUANGPRABANG - HANOI - LUANGPRABANG

PAKSE - SIEM REAP - PAKSE

SAVANNAKHET - BANGKOK - SAVANNAKHET

PAKSE - HOCHIMINH - PAKSE

PAKSE - BANGKOK - PAKSE

QV111

QV101

QV103

QV112

QV102

QV104

QV513

QV523

QV501

QV502

QV901

QV902

QV601

QV602

QV401

QV402

QV512

QV515

QV201

QV522

QV525

QV202

QV201

QV202

QV201

QV202

Daily

Daily

Daily

Daily

Daily

Daily

1356

1356

246

246

1357

1357

1357

1357

13457

13457

2457

136

1357

2457

136

1357

1357

1357

1357

1357

VTE LPQ

VTE LPQ

VTE LPQ

LPQ VTE

LPQ VTE

LPQ VTE

LPQ PKZ

PKZ LPQ

VTE ODY

ODY VTE

VTE HOE

HOE VTE

VTE LXG

LXG VTE

VTE XKH

XKH VTE

VTE PKZ

VTE PKZ

VTE PKZ

PKZ VTE

PKZ VTE

PKZ VTE

VTE ZVK

ZVK VTE

PKZ ZVK

ZVK PKZ

09:15

11:45

16:30

07:50

13:30

17:55

10:55

16:30

10:30

11:50

11:00

12:35

12:00

13:30

10:00

11:00

06:30

08:30

07:40

11:45

16:05

16:05

07:40

15:07

09:25

15:05

10:10

12:30

17:25

08:45

14:15

18:50

12:35

18:10

11:20

12:40

11:55

13:30

13:00

14:30

10:30

11:30

07:45

09:45

08:55

13:00

17:30

17:20

09:55

17:20

9:55

15:35

AT7

320

AT7

AT7

320

AT7

AT7

AT7

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

AT7

AT7

MA6

AT7

AT7

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

MA6

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

PKZ

PKZ

0

0

FLT No Days Routing Dep Arr AC STP

VIENTIANE - LUANGPRABANG - VIENTIANE

LUANGPRABANG - PAKSE - LUANGPRABANG

VIENTIANE -OUDOMXAY - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE- HOUEISAY - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - LUANGNAMTHA-VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - XIENGKHUANG-VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE- PAKSE - VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE - SAVANNAKHET-VIENTIANE

PAKSE - SAVANNAKHET - PAKSE

Remarks : All times are local times 1 = Monday 5 = Friday 2 = Tuesday 6 = Saturday 3 = Wednesday 7 = Sunday 4 = Thursday * QV4570/ QV4571/ QV4574/ QV4575 Operated by THAI AIRWAYS * QV920/ QV921/ QV930/ QV931 Operated by VIETNAM AIRLINES

02 Pangkham Rd, P.O. Box 6441 Vientiane , Lao P.D.R For more information please contact Lao Airlines Tel: +856 21 212016, 212051-54 Fax: +856 21 212056, 212058 www.laoairlines.com

DOMESTIC ROUTES TIMETABLEValid from 25 Mar 2012 to 27 Oct 2012

Get Connected to the Fascinating City of Singapore

Lao Airlines operates weekly flights to Singaporeevery Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday

For more information, please contact the ticket & reservation officeTel: 021 212051-54

Email: [email protected]

sabaidee lifestyle & travel magazine issue 2

Documents

lao attractions

luang prabang golf club

cal lao cuisine favorites

best of laos

northern laos

ban visoun

chaichetthatirat road

visit laos year