‘I took a river cruise around Southeast Asia and found one part so moving'
Fancy a cruise holiday with a unique twist? This extraordinary river voyage through Laos will leave you feeling serene and rejuvenated, offering a glimpse into a different culture, complete with a friendly crew, warm locals and a lively landscape.
Our adventure kicked off in Luang Prabang in northern Laos, following a one-night pit stop at the Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel. Here, we found Mekong Kingdoms' chic luxury river cruiser Bohème docked on the banks of the Mekong River.
We were greeted aboard by manager Asri and her 20-strong crew. Before embarking, we participated in a traditional Baci blessing ceremony led by local elders, who tied string around our wrists as a good luck charm, reports the Mirror.
With only 13 suites on board the Bohème, there's zero risk of feeling cramped. Each cabin is roomy and equipped with air conditioning, a Nespresso machine, minibar, fresh fruit and cookies, and most importantly, offers a stunning view of the river as we gently sailed along it.
Asri's tannoy announcements help keep track of time, while detailed itineraries are provided in the cabins to prep for the upcoming day.
At night, the boat is anchored on the river bank, ensuring a tranquil rest in your plush bed. Time spent on board between excursions can be filled with cooking and cocktail masterclasses, spa treatments, or simply unwinding and watching the passing boats and wildlife.
Meals are enjoyed in the expansive dining salon on the top deck, where we indulged in relaxed breakfasts, buffet lunches and a variety of set menus showcasing local produce.
Canapés were the star of cocktail hour, with mixologists crafting their concoctions as we watched the sunset, followed by our beautifully plated four-course dinners featuring an abundance of fresh fish and river weed – a new favourite of ours.
A colourful, smaller tender would transport us to the shore for our daily excursions along the river. Our first destination was the Kuang Si Waterfall national park, with forest trails leading to swimming spots, an Asiatic black bear rescue centre and waterfall viewing points.
Next on our itinerary was Laos Buffalo Dairy, a social enterprise providing mozzarella to hotels and local eateries, while also educating local farmers on herd care. A farm tour allowed us to milk and groom the buffalo and bottle-feed lively calves, as well as taste the produce – all crafted on site.
Further up the river, the Pak Ou Caves, nestled into the cliffs overlooking the Mekong, are brimming with sacred golden Buddha statues. Our visit happened to coincide with a group of touring monks in saffron robes, who invited us to join their chanting session. For a small donation, you can contribute to the vibrant shrines with offerings made from palm leaves and bright orange marigold blossoms – an experience we found to be incredibly serene and moving.
A trip to the village of Ban Xang Khong allowed us to try our hand at making traditional saa paper from mulberry tree bark. We were given bark pulp along with leaves and local flowers to mix in, then we left our creations on screens to dry in the sun and transform into paper.
Here, we also participated in an enlightening tea tasting in the lush green garden – including one brewed from silkworm poo, a local delicacy – and visited the local museum before shopping for local handicrafts and fabrics.
Another standout was Ban Chan Neua, the pottery village. The ancient kings of Laos selected this village for their pottery-making skills, and they provided the Royal court with pots for whisky production, fish fermentation and water storage. Now, the villagers invite visitors to craft their own bowls on hand-driven wheels (with much-needed expert supervision).
A small shop lets you take home a memento, or you can pay extra to have your own creation shipped back.
Our cruise concluded with a night at the Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, a former French officers quarters dating back to 1914. With an outdoor pool and central location, it's the perfect base for exploring the local night market, climbing Mount Phousi, or visiting the National Museum, formerly Laos' Royal Palace. It was also a breeze to hop in a tuk-tuk and visit local craft centre Ock Pop Tok (meaning 'East Meets West' in Lao).
The beautiful grounds are filled with vibrant colours, and you can participate in classes, enjoy the riverside café, or simply soak up the serene atmosphere. The next morning at sunrise, we took part in Sai Bat (morning alms giving), where Buddhist monks of all ages walk the streets in silence, receiving food offerings from well-wishers.
It was the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable cultural experience that left my heart – and camera roll – full.
Mekong Kingdoms' five-night full-board Mekong cruise on Bohème costs from £2,550 per person based on a twin cabin. This includes excursions, entrance fees, group transfers, tour guides, meals, beverages, internet, use of the vessel's facilities (excluding spa), river pilots and taxes. A stay at Avani+ Riverside Bangkok costs from $130 per night and Avani+ Luang Prabang costs from $220 per night (bed and breakfast).
For more deals on traditional ocean cruise ships, check out MSC Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruises and Princess Cruises.
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