For visitors who have never had the opportunity to experience Laos, the mention of the Southeastern nation might bring to mind images of backpackers nursing a Lao beer while leisurely tubing down the Mekong river; or monks swathed in saffron robes walking past centuries-old temples. While both scenes are still very much alive, in just over a decade, Laos has developed into a global tourist destination, catering to travelers ranging from those seeking spiritual inspiration, heritage charms or good party times, and everything in between.

To meet demands of the increasingly varying types of guests crossing its borders, accommodation providers in Laos have broadened their offerings. Travelers to Laos can now choose from a wide range of places to rest their weary heads, opting for a hostel or guesthouse costing a few dollars a night, or choosing to live large and drop 350 dollars to match the thread count of the bed linen they sleep on.

The former capital of Luang Prabang juxtaposes the new with the old, with the heritage old town centre protected as a UNESCO site. Many of the former colonial mansions, which used to house the gentry and noblemen of yesteryear, have been given a new lease on life as high end villa resorts and hotels, attracting such guests as Christian Dior Japan's senior management who was reported to have stayed at Luang Say Residence recently. A sense of place is very much felt in Luang Prabang, from the roadside stalls selling baguettes to the ancient Buddhist temples scattered around the town.

In Vang Vieng, where the aforementioned tubing is still a popular tourist activity, the vibe is more laid back and rustic, attracting guests with its inspiring natural scenery and riverscapes. For culture seekers who want to scratch further beneath the surface, homestays provide an immersing opportunity to do as the locals do and engage in the traditional ways of life.

Eco-aware travelers can opt to stay in low impact eco-lodges in Laos, many of which are situated just outside the tourist destinations of Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, and the capital Vientiene. Other than earth friendly initiatives implemented within the grounds, many of the green accommodation providers also offer activities that bring benefits to the local communities. A portion of the funds are usually allocated to support the nearby villages through sustainable programs, or put aside for nature conservation. Eco-lodges are not for the bug-squeamish, because many of them, as the name suggests, are situated riverside or amongst towering forests and right in the heart of insect territory. However, if a few bugs don't faze you, staying in eco-friendly accommodation is the most responsible and gratifying route you can take while exploring this fascinating country.

An easy gauge to judge the age of a river is by its windiness. The Mekong, which snakes through the land, provides majestic riverscapes and cliffscapes that are best enjoyed from the river's banks or rushing waters. Through companies like Mekhong Cruises, opting to stay on a luxurious floating hotel is possible in Laos, evoking the romance of train travel with well appointed private cabins and port calls at UNESCO temples, mysterious ruins, and majestic waterfalls. With the calibre of sights and attractions Laos offers, it's easy to agree with the nation's tourism slogan of "Simply Beautiful".

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