Tourist numbers to Laos have in the last ten years grown astronomically, from less than 10,000 in the beginning of the 1990s to over 1.8 million in 2010. Vang Vieng was perhaps the first destination that brought this Southeast nation to the attention of globetrotters, originally discovered by backpackers looking for languid days and hedonistic nights. Since then, a handful of other destinations around Laos have been attracting a widening range of travelers following their own holiday inspirations, be it seeking a dose of ancient history in the Plain of Jars region, cascades and caves in Thakhek, or eco-tourism in Muang Ngoi Neua. Increasing visitor numbers inevitably bring about global influence - western music played at clubs in Vientiene, or Family Guy television series played on loop in the backpacker destinations. Luang Prabang, however, has managed to maintain a unique balance of both the ancient and the modern.

Just as Luang Prabang is at the confluence of two rivers, the world heritage town is a charming convergence of two distinct cultures. European architecture serve as a reminder of its French colonial days, while Lao elements provide a strong sense location, a complementary juxtaposition that won recognition from the world body UNESCO in the mid 1990s. The former seat of government in Laos is still to this day considered the heart of spirituality and culture in the southeast Asian nation, with other thirty monasteries scattered around the charming town and a pace of life reminiscent of the nostalgic past. That's not to say Luang Prabang is suspended in the decades of old, for the town has in recent times reinvented itself to cater to the sophistication of today's travelers.

A stroll down through the town center offers all the proof needed why Luang Prabang has become synonymous with picturesque townscapes and provocative natural landscapes. Unpretentious restaurants and bars dot the banks of the Mekhong, offering vistas of the river caressing lush mountain slopes to accompany cooling drinks. Writers sit riverside, sipping coffee and drawing inspiration from the waters. In town, two-storied wooden shophouses stand shoulder to shoulder, with wraparound balconies and shuttered windows queuing up in a seemingly endless and attractive stretch. French pastries are served alongside local savories in restaurants, with al fresco table sets patiently awaiting guests for their post dinner coffee or wine. Never far from anywhere stands a temple, providing tranquil spot for appreciation and introspection.

Being cozily sized as it is, accommodation in Luang Prabang provides one-off experiences to its guests. These hotels and villa resorts normally offer no more than 30 guest suites, packing in subtle modernities while staying true to the regal and historical vibe of the town. Former palatial residences of yesteryear have been meticulously restored as high end boutique hotels, continuing to provide not only shelter, but a sweet place to temporarily call home generations on. Other newer built accommodation, such as the Luang Say Residence, went the distance to respect the rich cultural past of the town, having consulted with the main architects behind the town's UNESCO prior to breaking ground on the property. WiFi bridges guests with the rest of the world while lounging beneath four poster bed canopies. Infinity swimming pools and luxurious spa and spa treatments provide physical wellness to match the spiritual and mental stimulation in Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang has many fascinating attractions waiting to the explored. The city centre is small enough to navigate on foot, a map in one hand and camera in the other. Another highly recommended way to see the sights is on bicycles, which are provided by most if not all of the town's boutique hotels. To delve deeper into the culture and history, concierge services can arrange for a guided tour through the town and its surrounding areas. Local guides are knowledgeable and friendly, happy to answer any questions about their homeland to curious visitors. For all those who have had the chance to experience the so-called 'Gem of Laos', Luang Prabang - with its natural, cultural, and historical offerings - will always serve as a shining memory in their hearts.

Please click here to visit The Luang Say Residence http://www.luangsayresidence.com