FOLLOWING THE MEKONG RIVER TO LUANG PRABANG IN LAOS

According to a legend from the Far East, the fascinating Mekong River, whose length is 4880 km, placing it among the ten longest rivers in the world, is the house of the nine dragons and each one of them inhabits one of the river arms before it empties into the South China Sea. In fact, in the Vietnamese language the river is called Cuu Long, which means “the river of the nine dragons.” Although currently only the seven arms remain, that is, only the seven dragons inhabit its waters, carriers of superhuman strength that are capable of improving the conditions of the fishing and agricultural resources of which thousands of people live in this part of Asia. Thus following the route along the Mekong riverbed, I arrived in Luang Prabang, an architectural gem in the heart of Laos. I invite you to meet this magical city with me.

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LUANG PRABANG: THE CAPITAL CITY OF THE KINDOM OF THOUSAND ELEPHANTS  

Another legend states that Buddha stopped in this area to rest during his journey through the Asian lands, and while he was admiring the landscape his face was illuminated by a big smile, and then he addressed a disciple who accompanied him on his journey. Buddha told him that one day this place, full of lush forests on the banks of the Mekong River, would become a shining city. And he was right! Since in 698 the Tai prince, Khun Lo, ordered the construction of Luang Prabang, under the name of Muang Sua, which today stands out for its architectural constructions of highly diversified styles. Among them the majestic Buddhist temples predominate, hence its reference to “the city of a thousand temples” and the many buildings that still recall the French presence in the lands of Laos during the colonial era. Likewise, in this city the local traditions are still intact, so in 1995 Luang Prabang was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It could not be otherwise, since it is an interesting and wonderful spectacle for visitors. I have fallen in love with this amazing place due to its small streets, full of European-style cafes mixed with the typical and intimate restaurants, where I had the opportunity to try the delicious local cuisine, which is also a perfect reflection of the history of Laos, due to the fact that its dishes combine traditional Asian flavors and French gastronomy. A delicacy for foodies. Nor can I remain without alluding to the kindness of the people whose faces usually show a big smile and who always offer you help if you find yourself in trouble.

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WHAT SHOULDN’T YOU MISS IN LUANG PRABANG

Laos is the country known worldwide for its Coffee Culture, since it is one of the great producers of this wonderful drink that makes us “people” again in the morning. The coffee that is produced in southern Laos, where the microclimate from that area favors its growth, stands out for its magnificent flavor: strong and rich, just the one I like the most. So, without a doubt, one of the mandatory things whether you are a coffee lover or not, it is to try a cup of the typical Luang Prabang coffee, in one of the fantastic cafes, which are scattered throughout the city. Traditional coffee is drunk with milk, but be careful! It is the condensed milk that sweetens the coffee, although not too much. The milk is placed at the bottom of a fine glass, and later it is filled with the coffee. Another aspect that you should not miss when visiting the city is the Alms Giving Ceremony, called in the local language Tak Bat or Sai Bat. It takes place every day at dawn, so cheer up with this to get up so early if you are not a great early riser, in this situation perhaps a cup of a good traditional Lao coffee will help you. The ceremony consists of the delivery of alms to Buddhist monks. Alms are usually food, such as rice or noodles… etc. And although this ceremony takes place not only in this city, but also throughout Laos, in addition to the other nearby countries, in Luang Prabang especially it is a unique exhibition, since the monks, dressed in their orange costumes, barefoot and shaved, they parade organized in a large group, turning the ceremony into a great manifestation of faith. And all this submerged in an immense silence.

INMERSE YOURSELF IN THE FANSTASTIC WATERFALLS

The Kuang Si Waterfalls are a perfect destination in case you would like to escape a bit from the urban world and get to know the nature around Luang Prabang. The waterfalls are located only about 27 km from the city, and to get to this wonderful natural area, the best option is to cross by boat on the Mekong River, although you can also rent a private or shared tuk-tuk from the center, which in turn is another great adventure. I love these Asian tuk-tuks, they offer just great way of travelling. The waterfalls open early, at 8:00 in the morning, and I believe that it is better to arrive early, since in this way you have the opportunity to enjoy the park alone, before it is filled with other visitors. It is an area where you can swim, have a snack and do a bit of hiking, so you can perfectly spend the whole day here, especially if you come with children, they will be delighted. The best time is between November and January, when the wet season ends, although I have been told that August and July are not so bad. I guess it depends a bit on how lucky you are with the weather. The largest waterfall reaches 60 meters, and there are also different natural pools with turquoise water that invite you to enter to cool off in them. Go up a path next to the waterfalls and jumps, the views are spectacular from the above and there is also a swing where you have the possibility to stay for a while playing like a child, while you are having a bath in the very desirable waters. What was a pleasant surprise to me was the discovery of the existence of a recovery center for Asian black bears. These poor animals, rescued from illegal farms, are very sweet and funny. It is a privilege to be able to contemplate them up close. Although yes, be careful!, their claws are powerful.

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TIPS:

• Remember to be respectful with the traditions, especially during the Alms Giving Ceremony. Don’t approach to close and remain in silence.
• To visit the Waterfalls bring a pair of comfortable shoes instead of flip-flops, as well a swimming suit and towel. You can buy the food directly there.
• Don’t forget to try the traditional Lao coffee.
• Visit the local market and bargain, but always offer a reasonable price for the items.