Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

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Cocktail Hour Sampling the Capital's Most Indulgent Drops

Transcript of Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

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ສະບາຍດ ບນດາຜອານ!

ພວກເຮາຫວງວາ ທານຄງມຄວາມສກກບການພກແລງຂອງທານ ບາງເທອທານອາດພກຢໃນບອນໜງຂອງທພກບຕກ ທພວກເຮາໄດແນະນາໄປໃນສະບບທຜານມາ!

ວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ສະບບນ ເປນນາສະເໜອຫວຂ “ພາຍຫງຄາຄອຍຍາມແລງພເສດ” ແລະ ໃນໜານ ພວກເຮາໄດພະຍາຍາມຄນຫາກດຈະກາ ພາຍຫງຕາເວນຫບຂອບຟາ ທມຄວາມບນເທງ ສາງສນ ແລະ ໜາສນໃຈທສດ ມາສະເໜ ເພອຄວາມສາລານຂອງທານ.

ໃນບດໜາປກ ຂອງວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ໄດຄນຫາຮານຄອກເທວທສາງສນ ຂອງຕວເມອງວຽງຈນ ແລະມຄວາມສກກບບາງການປະສມປະສານທລງຕວທສດ ໃນການໃຫບລການ ຂອງ ບນດາ ບານອຍ ທຢໄກຄຽງ ພວກເຮາຍງໄດຜະຈນໄພເຂາໄປໃນປາເລກ ທໂຄງການ ການທອງທຽວປາໃນເວລາກາງຄນທນາເນນ ແລະ ໄດຮຽນຮວາ ໂຄງການການທອງທຽວຍາມຄານ ໄດຊວຍປກປອງ ເສອອນໂດຈນ ທຖກລາຢາງກວາງຂວາງ ແນວໃດ ແລະ ແນວພນສດປາ ພນເມອງຊະນດອນໆອກ ທປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດນາແອດ-ພເລຍ.

ພ ວ ກ ເ ຮ າ ຍງ ໄ ດຄນ ຫ າ ກ າ ນ ໃ ຊເ ວ ລ າ ຍ າ ມ ແ ລ ງ ທພ ເ ສ ດ ທຫ ວ ງ ພ ຣ ະ ບ າ ງ ຄນ ຫ າ ອ າ ຫ າ ນ ຫວ າ ນ ຈ າ ນ ແ ຊ ບ ຂ ອ ງ ເ ມ ອ ງ ວ ຽ ງ ຈນ ທຮບ ປ ະ ກນ ຖ ກ ໃ ຈ ຜທມກອາຫານຫວານໃນຕອນເດກ ແລະ ໄດໂອລມກບຜສາງຮບເງາເລອງ ທເປນແມຍງຄນທາອດຂອງປະເທດລາວ ທຈະມາເລາກຽວກບບານເກດຂອງຕນໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ

ທານສາມາດຫາອານ ວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ໄດທ ຮານກາເຟ ຮານອາຫານ ໂຮງແຮມ ແລະ ສະປາ ທທານມກ

ພວກເຮາຍນດທຈະຮບຟງຄວາມຄດເຫນຂອງທານ ກຽວກບວາລະສານ ຂອງພວກເຮາ ດງນນຖາທານມຂຄດເຫນ ຄາແນະນາ ຫ ທລະກດທຕອງການໃຫ ພວກເຮາ ລງສະເໜ ໃນໜາ “The Good Guide” ຫ ‘What’s New’ ແລະ ‘What’s On’ ກະລນາສງອເມວເຖງ ບນນາທການຂອງພວກເຮາໄດທ: [email protected].

ຂໃຫທກທານໂຊກດ!

ພນ ລະຄອນ ສ ບນ ເຮອງຜອຳ�ນວຍການ

Note

Greetings readers!

We hope you enjoyed Sabaidee Magazine Issue #17 released in June, and you’re enjoying your summer break – perhaps even at one of the boutique accommodations we highlighted last issue!

Excitingly, this issue of Sabaidee Magazine marks the first of our 'special edition' issues. We have themed Issue #18 our ‘After Dark Special’ and within these pages we’ve tried to uncover some of the most interesting, innovative and entertaining post-sunset activities for your enjoyment.

In our Sabaidee Cover feature we explore Vientiane’s emerging cocktail culture, and we had the pleasure of sampling some of the best concoctions the city’s intimate small bars have to offer. We also venture into the wild at the Nam Nern Night Safari, and explore how this after dark tourism programme is working to protect the widely-hunted Indo-Chinese tiger, and other wildlife native to the Nam Et - Phou Louey National Protected Area.

Also in this issue, we spend the perfect evening in Luang Prabang, dish up the details on Vientiane’s best dessert spots guaranteed to satisfy any late-night sugar cravings, and chat with Laos’ first female feature film director about her home in Vientiane.

Remember, Sabaidee Magazine is a monthly publication, and you can find us in your favourite cafes, restaurants, hotels and spas from the 15th of each month. We’d love to hear your feedback about our magazine, so if you have any comments, suggestions, or are an organisation or business that would like to be included in ‘The Good Guide’ or our ‘What’s New’ and ‘What’s On’ listings, please email our editor on [email protected].

Sok dee!

Phanhlakhone SyboonheungThe Director

DIRECTOR'S

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C O N T R I B U T O R S

NADINE DAYAGWith a specialised background in events photography Nadine has utilised her extensive industry experience in photographic projects around Australia and Asia. Originally hailing from North Queensland, Australia, and now based in Vientiane, she welcomes opportunities to share the beauty, culture and excitement of Laos through photojournalism.

JAMES ELTON-PYMOn the cusp of finishing his journalism degree in Syd-ney, Australia, James decided to put off the inevitable and instead move to Laos, despite being too tall to fit through any of the country’s doorways, to work as a subeditor for the Vientiane Times newspaper. James helped with coverage of the 2013 Australian election for News Corporation and was the host of a local current affairs programme on a Sydney community station. He likes to write stories about little individuals that create big changes, especially in the environment.

KATE ANTONASAustralian-born journalist turned art gallery manager and creative programmer, Kate relocated to Laos last year. Now living in Vientiane she has fallen for Laos’ exquisite traditional art, laid back lifestyle, street food and beer with ice. Always on the lookout for the cool and interesting she is attempting to uncover the best local eats, drinks and hidden gems.

SHAYLING NGOA recent journalism graduate from Australia, Shayling relocated to Vientiane in order to pursue her dreams of writing and travelling. Intrigued by Southeast Asian cultures she hopes to share her adventures and experiences with the world, one word at a time.

JUSTIN LANCYJustin Lancy is an American writer and technologist. On TravelerTech.com and Veritope.com, he examines how technology, global culture, and travel impact the lives of ordinary people in extraordinary ways. When not in an airport, he lives in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Travel

22 Spotlight On: A Perfect Evening in Luang Prabang 26 Further Afield: Like a tiger in the torchlight - How the Nam Nern Night Safari fights poaching with tourism

News & Events

10 What's On 14 What's New

Lifestyle

20 My City: My Vientiane32 Sabaidee Cover: Cocktail Hour - Sampling the Capital’s Most Indulgent Drops39 The Good Guide: EAT, DRINK, RELAX, SHOP, SEE & DO, SLEEP listings40 Sabaidee’s Guide To: Sweet Tooth - Vientiane’s Best After-Dinner Treats

18thT H I S I S S U E

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ON THE COVERCocktail Hour: Sampling the Capital's Most Indulgent Dropsphoto Nadine Dayag

HANNAH MCDONALD-MONIZHannah has been living in Laos and traveling exten-sively in the region since 2010. She tries to connect with each location she visits through the lens of her camera, and works as a freelance media consultant. Her other passions include language learning and try-ing new foods. See her blog, photography, and videos on her website www.seethinkexplore.com.

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WHERE WE ARE

VIENTIANEIncreasingly modern bustling capital with a trailblazing dining scene that must be tasted to be believed. Here you’ll find intricately adorned temples sitting alongside Parisian-style boulangeries, glossy developments, a young emerging creative scene, and some of the country’s most lively marketplaces.

LUANG PRABANGTranquil heritage-listed city boasting exquisite handicrafts, rich cultural sites steeped in history, a cosmopolitan bar scene and oodles of French colonial charm, all where the idyllic Nam Kahn and Mekong rivers meet. The perfect destination for the discerning traveller, the city is dotted with boutique hotels and spas.

VANG VIENGOne-time party haven turned an outdoor enthusiasts dream, the small town is set to a backdrop of magnificent limestone karsts and lush forest. Nothing beats whiling a day away kayaking down the Nam Song river or taking a dip at the serene blue lagoon – utter relaxation in nature.

SAVANNAKHETSitting on the banks of the Mekong, this growing city is the second-largest in Laos. The town centre houses ambient French Colonial architecture and small and friendly eateries are dotted along the riverfront. Just beyond the city you’ll find excellent trekking routes through the nearby Dong Natad Protected Area.

PAKSEThe capi ta l o f the southern province of Champassak, Pakse is the gateway to the picturesque Bolaven Plateau which is home to an abundance of scenic waterfalls and motorcycle routes, and is widely regarded as producing some of the highest-quality coffee in the country.

THAKHEKA launching pad for the captivating Thakhek Loop. Throw your kit on a rented motorbike and set off on a 4-day journey to explore the hidden Buddha Cave, secluded water holes, tiny villages and, the main attraction, Kong Lor Cave which houses a snaking river system accessed only by motorboat.

XAYABOURY Home to the Land of Million Elephants’ highest pachyderm population. Each year in February Laotians and travellers flock here to pay their respects to these magnificent endangered creatures during the annual Elephant Festival.

HMLAO

WHO'S

All material appearing in Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine is strictly copyrighted and all rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the prior written permission to the copyright holder. All articles and photographs published herein are created by the authors and photographers at their own discretion and do not necessarily represent the view of the publisher of the magazine. Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine holds no responsibility or liability arising out of the publication of such articles and photographs.

ONLINE EDITION ALSO AVAILABLE AT:

For more informationvisit www.sabaidee-magazine.com

or simply scan the QR code

[ ຄະນະທປກສາ / Consultants ] ພດທະລະພງ ຄງວຈດ Pattarapong Kongvijit / ວສດ ເຊາວະລດຕານນ Wisith Chawalitanon / ມານະໄຊ ອນແກວ Manachai Inkaew / ສມໃຈ ພມຜາສກ Somjai Pimpasouk [ ຜອຳນວຍການ / Director ] ພນລະຄອນ ສບນເຮອງ Phanhlakhone Syboonheung [ ບນນາທການອຳນວຍການ / Editorial Director ] ເກດ ພດທະຢາກອນສນ Gaid Kornsilapa [ ບນນາທການບລຫານ / Editor in Chief ] ຄຳສວນ ຈນທະລາດ Khamsouan Chanthalat [ ບນນາທການ ພາສາອງກດ / English Editor ] ເຄດ ແອນ ໂທ ນາສ Kate Antonas [ ບນນາທການອອນລາຍ / Online Editor ] ຂະນດຖາ ອດຕະເມດ Kanittha Attamate [ ຜອຳນວຍການຝາຍຂາຍ / Sales & Marketing Director ] ຊະຍາດາ ອະລຍະພນຈະເລນ Chayada Ariyaphoncharoen [ ຝາຍຂາຍແລະການຕະຫາດ / Sales & Marketing ] ສກສະຫວນ ທລະຈນ Souksavanh Thoulachan [ ປະສານງານການຕະຫາດ / Marketing Co-ordinator ] ບນລອດ ສດທພງ Bounlod Sittiphong [ ທມງານຂາວ / Reporter ] ເທບພະວງສອນ ບວພາ Thepphavongsone Bouapha [ ຈດໜາ ແລະ ອອກແບບ / Layout Design ] ນດນະລ ມາທອງ Nutnaree Mathong / ທະນະວດ ຄງແສນຄຳ Thanawatt Khongseankhum / ທນຍະລດ ສະທອນລກ Thunyarat Satornlug / ອະພດຊະຍາ ພກສະອາພອນ Aphitchaya Phrueksa-aphon / ວນວລາດ ບນລດ Wanvilart Boonyaratana [ ຫອງການວາລະສານສະບາຍດ / Sabaidee Magazine Sales Office THM Lao Co., Ltd. ] 256 ບານ ໜອງບອນ ເມອງໄຊເສດຖາ ນະຄອນຫວງວຽງຈນ ສປປ ລາວ 265 Baan Nongbone, Xayxetha, Vientiane Lao P.D.R [ ໂທ / ແຟກ: / Tel / Fax ] +856 21 454782 / +856 21 454782 / Mobile: +856 20 5516 2440, +856 20 5884 8376, +66 83 018 4076 (Thai) [ ອເມລ ບນນາທການ / Editor Email ] [email protected] [ ອເມລ ຝາຍຂາຍ / Sales Email ] [email protected] [ ເຈາຂອງ ແລະ ຜຈດພມ / Owner & Publisher ] ທ ເອສ ເອມ ລາວ THM Lao www.sabaidee-magazine.com [ ພມທ / Print by ] ໂຮງພມ ລາວຍນພຮນ ຈຳກດ Lao Uniprint Press Co., Ltd

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WHAT'S ON

ART CLASSES FOR KIDSThroughout July, i:cat gallery, VientianeVientiane-based artist Helen Biles will run art classes for children aged three years and up at i:cat gallery. Fun and interactive classes available include painting, drawing and craft and can be group sessions or one-on-one. All classes are by appointment only and times can be tailored to your schedule. To book a class, and for more details and pricing, contact Helen through her website (under the ‘Art Classes’ tab) at http://helenbi les.wordpress.com or [email protected], or search ‘Helen Biles Studio’ on Facebook.

LAOS IN FOCUSUntil July 24, Institute Français, Luang PrabangThis collection of photographs Laos In Focus: Picturing the Millen-nium Development Goals was gathered through a competition run by the United Nations and the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Lao photographers and the public were invited to reflect on develop-ment issues in their country from the point of view of the Millennium Development Goals. The result is a moving and personal account of Laos’ development through the people’s eyes. Free entry, gallery hours Mon-Fri 8am-12pm, 2pm-8pm, Sat 8am-1pm, 2pm-5pm. Visit www.if-laos.org for more details.

MERGINGThroughout August, i:cat gallery, Vientianei:cat gallery will host Merging, an exhibition combining the works of Lao and international artists who are living in Vientiane. Artworks on display include photography, paintings, prints, textiles and drawings. Free entry, gallery hours Mon-Fri 1pm-8pm, Sat & Sun 1pm-6pm. For more information visit www.facebook.com/icatgallery.

ART.

LEARN TO BACHATA AND SALSATuesdays for Bachata, Thursdays for Salsa, 9pm-10pm, April 12, VientianeApril 12 opens their dance floor for classes in Bachata and Salsa each week. Enjoy Latin music while teachers Erzio and Amantha teach you the moves from 9pm-10pm, followed by free dance time. Bachata classes are free, Salsa classes are 35,000 kip per person, per session. For more information visit www.facebook.com/april12.restaurant.

DANCE.

MOSAICUntil July 20, M Gallery, VientianeMOSAIC is a group exhibition bringing together the diverse style of works by seven prominent contemporary artists of Laos. Exhibiting artists include prominent female artist Marisa, whose 5.6 metre work Splendour of Mekong captures the beauty of life along the grand Mekong through her rendition of bold colours and eccentric curves. Mick Saylom, whose works have found many overseas collectors, speaks about life through his 16 socio commentary works. Also on show are attractive abstract works by Sivilay Souvannasing through his City Dream series, whilst Ole Scovil presents her take on Pop Art through her play of colours and creative composition. The rare but exciting cubist paintings of Somphet Chanthala are also on display. Also rarely featured in Laos are two individual installation works by Souliya Phoumivong and Bounpaul Phothyzan. For more information visit www.mgallery.com.sg.

Pictured: Splendour of Mekong by Marisa.

MUSIC.

PAUL CARTER LIVEAugust 8, 6.30pm, La Maison Restaurant, VientianeFrench restaurant La Maison is now hosting local jazz musician Paul Carter in a monthly night of live music. Paul will perform everything from blues, jazz, pop, 80’s and 90’s tunes in the restaurant’s leafy outdoor court-yard. Happy hour runs from 5.30pm-7.30pm, and La Maison is now also broadcasting live sport including NBA, rugby, tennis and football from 5.30pm-10pm.

FRENCH ON FILMSaturdays, 2pm and 6pm, Institute Français, VientianeInstitut Français du Laos opens its cinema to the public for free each Saturday to promote the exciting, moving and inspiring world of French film. Two films are shown at each session from 2pm and 6pm. Family-friendly films on offer, free entry, for the full programme visit www.if-laos.org.

FILM.

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WHAT'S ON

BOURBON, BEERS, PIES & FOOTY AT STICKY FINGERSWeekly, as per scheduled AFL games, Sticky Fingers, VientianeSticky Fingers will show all televised afternoon, evening and weekend Australian Rules football games from their upper level bar area – Sticky Jock’s. Enjoy a cold beer and some classic pub fare, including Aussie meat pies, as you cheer on your favourite team. While there’s no games the area will be business as usual. For more informa-tion visit www.facebook.com/StickyFingersLaos.

AUSKICK FOR KIDSAugust 10, 9.30am-10.30am, Vientiane International School, VientianeThe Lao Elephants Football Club will hold an Auskick workshop at VIS, aimed at introducing children aged between five and 12 to Australian Rules Football. The fun, free session is open to kids of all nationalities and levels of experience with all equipment provided. Parents and volunteers welcome to attend or join in on the day. Contact the Lao Elephants for more details on 020 5505 9116.

THEATRE.

ELEPHANTS QUIZ NIGHTAugust 30, 7pm, Vientiane Interna-tional School, VientianeThe Lao Elephants Football Club are holding a quiz night and silent auction to raise funds for their Lao national players to travel to regional and international tournaments with the club throughout the year. Upcoming games in 2014 include a match in Bangkok and the Manila Cup in the Philippines. Tickets are US$50 per

person, and tables are for six people – tickets include catering by Pimenton, beer, wine and non-alcoholic drinks. There will also be a pay-as-you-go cocktail bar available on the night. For more details and to book a table contact Craig on 020 5505 9116.

FOR THE LADIESWednesdays, from 7pm, I-Beam, VientianeI-Beam bar and restaurant’s popular La-dies Night continues every Wednesday with female customers enjoying 50% off all glasses of wine from 7pm onwards. The bar is well-stocked with European and South African vintages, so there’s sure to be something for all tastes, and the delectable tapas menu makes for an excellent accompaniment. For more details visit www.facebook.com/ibeamvientiane.

SPORT.

SOCIAL.

KHAO NIEW ON TOURAugust 6 & 7 in Savannakhet, August 27 & 28 in Luang Prabang, venues TBAVientiane-based theatre company Khao Niew's most recent play ‘Metamorfoz’ will tour to Savannakhet and Luang Prabang as part of the Lao Culture Challenge Fund sponsored by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). The play tells the story of a family living by and off the river and how this life is changing. It is co-produced by French theatre company Theatr Piba. The theatre troupe will perform ‘Metamorfoz’ on August 6 & 7 at 7.30pm in Savannakhet, with a two-day theatre workshop at the Children's Cultural Centre on August 4 & 5. In Luang Prabang Khao Niew will run theatre workshops on August 25 & 26, and perform on August 27 & 28.

‘Metamorfoz’ is performed in Lao, but subtitled in English. Venues to be announced, for more information visit www.facebook.com/pages/Khao-Niew-Lao/436586063040845 or email [email protected] or [email protected] (English).

THE MASTER WEAVERS ROOM OPENING NIGHT August 7, 5pm-8pm, Ock Pop Tok Flagship Store, Luang PrabangOck Pop Tok will host an opening reception for The Master Weavers Room at their flagship shop in Ban Vat Nong, which showcases exquisite, highly intricate textiles produced by weavers who work with the group’s Living Crafts Centre in Luang Prabang. Weavers who have achieved ‘master weaver’ status demonstrate exceptional technical and design skills; furthermore, they demonstrate the ability to execute all aspects of a complex project, including conceptualising the design, setting the pattern on the loom and finally weaving the completed masterpiece. The Master Weavers Room aims to be the go-to destination to obtain the highest quality woven textiles in Luang Prabang specifically and Laos in general, and will be open year round, with new pieces being added to the collection as they are created.

Held at Ock Pop Tok’s Vat Nong location in Luang Prabang, the reception will feature drinks and canapés made by the Silk Road Cafe, Ock Pop Tok’s restaurant located at the Living Crafts Centre on the banks of the Mekong. Many of the master weavers’ whose works are displayed in the gallery will be on hand to speak about their pieces and answer questions. For more information on the event, contact [email protected]. For more information about Ock Pop Tok, visit www.ockpoptok.com.

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WHAT'S NEW

Are you planning a break in Luang Prabang? Then make sure you add a relaxing boat trip to your itinerary. This summer, Banana Boat is offering 15% off for all Sabaidee

readers who book direct. There are many trips to choose from. Take the more scenic trip to Kuangsi waterfall via the Mekong, it's the most popular trip, departing at 11am and returning at sunset when the river is really alive. There are also trips to Pak Ou caves, via whiskey and handicraft villages, or you could choose to ride an elephant. If you’re short on time you can always enjoy a sunset cruise, with Lao snacks, sodas and beers – a great way to finish the day. Private charters and family discounts also available. For bookings and information visit www.bananaboatlaos.com, send an email through the contact page, visit the Ma Té Sai shop in Ban Aphai, or call 071 260 654 or 020 2295 9091. Quote the promo code ‘SABAIDEE15’ to receive the discount.

BANANA BOAT’S Summer Special

Lao Telecom recently awarded their highest selling distributors nationwide with a teambuilding holiday to Phuket, Thailand. The four day, three night trip was hosted by Wonderland Tour Company and led by Mr Kingkeo Vangkaneng, Mr Piyavat Chariyasetthaphong and Mr Souphat Bakava, the Deputy Director of Lao Telecom. Around 130 people attended, including the distributors and division and sector heads. The aim of the holiday was to reward Lao Telecom distributors who have made outstanding sales and achieved targets, and to strengthen the relationship between the company and its distributors. This is the second reward-based holiday Lao Telecom has arranged in 2014, with another group of high-performing distributors holidaying in Seoul, South Korea.

Lao Telecom REWARDS DISTRIBUTORS

TAEC Boutique opens this month on the peninsula in Luang Prabang. The boutique retail space of the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre specialises in exclusive handcrafted products direct from ethnic minority groups across Laos. Located on the main street in Luang Prabang, just across from Villa Santi Hotel, TAEC Boutique will feature the TAEC Heirloom Collection, with one-of-a-kind textiles, carvings and silver. Each museum-quality, collector’s item piece will include a certificate of authenticity. Open seven days a week from 9am-9pm, be sure to visit the TAEC Boutique the next time you visit Luang Prabang. For more information contact TAEC Boutique on [email protected].

TAEC OPENS BOUTIQUE

| Photo Shayling Ngo. |

A fresh and funky new burger joint has opened in Vientiane. A collaboration of the brains behind Pimenton and Jazzy Brick, Sputnik Burger is a welcome addition to the city’s dining scene. The restaurant is a retro ode to pop culture with Banksy-esque street art adorning the walls, industrial-style steel furniture, 1980s tunes pumping through the speakers, and the soon-to-be-iconic Volkswagen Beetle dining tables lining the entrance. The mouth-watering burgers, in an array of inventive flavours, are all served with hand cut chips in simple but unique cardboard boxes. The eponymous Sputnik Burger (45,000 kip) is a must-try with a succulent, tender beef patty, Swiss cheese, crispy bacon, gourmet greens and delectable caramelised onions. Pop into Sputnik Burger on Rue Setthathirath from Monday to Saturday, 11am-11pm. For more information, or to get your hands on their hip merchandise including t-shirts and caps, contact 03 0937 6504 or visit www.facebook.com/SputnikBurger.

Sputnik Burger LANDS IN VIENTIANE

Couleur D’Asie has reopened their boutique after relocating a hop, skip and jump from their previous location, to Rue Nokeokumane in downtown Vientiane, and the new space has allowed for the addition of an exquisite tearoom. The store lives by the concept of being able to buy everything you see. From the vibrant handmade dresses designed by owner Viviane Inthavong down to the cutlery on the dining tables, it is a shopper’s heaven. Open every day from 8am until midnight, by day, Couleur D’Asie creates a relaxing atmosphere where you can enjoy a comforting cup of tea while browsing the endless knickknacks hidden in every corner of the store. As the sun sets, the tearoom transforms into a hip lounge where friends can come together to relish a cheeky glass of champagne and a simple French or Asian meal. For more information please contact [email protected].

THE Colours OF ASIA

On a misty morning in mid-October, Luang Prabang’s daily procession of barefoot, saffron-clad monks will cross paths with a troupe of trainer-sporting, neon-clad runners who will hit the scenic streets of the UNESCO Heritage Town to raise money for a new children’s hospital. The Luang Prabang Half-Marathon ‘La Procession’ will take place on October 12, 2014. This year, runners will be lacing up their sneakers to support the construction of the Lao Friends Hospital for Children, which aims to provide high-quality health care for the children of Laos. One of the race’s sponsoring hotels, Villa Maly, is welcoming runners in town for the half-marathon with a special deal over the nights of October 11 and 12, 2014. A 33-room boutique hotel nestled in a former royal residence just outside the heritage town, Villa Maly’s Runners’ Package features two nights’ stay in a superior room with breakfast, pre- and post-race massages, round-trip airport pickups and transport to and from the race’s starting line. Rates for the package start at US$300 per room for single occupancy and US$438 for double sharing. For enquires about Villa Maly’s Runners’ Package, visit www.villa-maly.com or email [email protected]. Full details about the race and registration are available at www.luangprabanghalfmarathon.com.

Villa Maly ROLLS OUT RED CARPET FOR LA PROCESSION

| Photo Shayling Ngo. |

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Mekong Estate unveils its latest villa, a newly built private vacation residence located on the Mekong River in Ban Khoi, just a 10-minute drive from Luang Prabang town. The house features Lao-French colonial architecture, three bedrooms, four bathrooms, a full kitchen, living room, a 25-metre long infinity pool and wrap-around terrace or balcony for stunning Mekong views. Your stay includes daily housekeeping, grounds keeping and security. The villa is now available for daily, weekly or long-term rental and for private functions with full catering. To celebrate the opening, Mekong Estate has a special introductory rate for a limited time. For details or to book: [email protected] or www.mekongestate.com.

WHAT'S NEW

This month Lao Telecom opened a new One Stop service centre in Ban Phou Hua Xang, Anouvong district of Xaysomboun province. An opening ceremony was held on June 18, presided over by promotional head Mr Thansamay Xamonty. The Deputy Governor of Xaysomboun province, Mr Phoykham Houngbounyoung, also participated, along with sales agents and invited guests. Lao Telecom is strengthening its customer service by opening One Stop centres all around the country. So far the telecommunications company has 129 client service shops around Laos; of those, 89 are One Stop service centres. For more information visit: www.laotel.com, or www.facebook.com/laotel.

LAO TELECOM OPENS ‘One Stop’ SHOP IN XAYSOMBOUN

The Luang Prabang Film Festival will run from December 6-10, and like always, will showcase best recent films from across Southeast Asia. The most exciting place to check out films during the event is the festival’s Night Venue at the Handicraft Market, right in the centre of town. There, 800 chairs are set up each year, though the festival regularly welcomes audiences of over a thousand visitors stopping by to watch movies under the stars. In addition to feature film screenings (all subtitled in English), there will be several programs of short films, Q&As with filmmakers, panel discussions with experts from around the region and beyond and several exhibitions on display. And, of course, for you selfie-lovers out there, there are always many opportunities to take pictures with the celebrities and directors in attendance. If you didn’t think it could get any better, all of the festival’s screenings and activities are totally free and open to the public. For more information, visit the festival’s website at www.lpfilmfest.org, or join 30,000 other followers on their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/lpfilmfest.

Silver Screen POPS UP IN LUANG PRABANG

Popular Vientiane restaurant Chanmaly Cafe is extending their services to offer speciality products like fine wines, charcuterie, cheeses and other delicatessen produce from Spain and Italy; and from July these goods are available for delivery. Equipped with a professional cold cut slicer, take away meats are also available with a special 5% discount for a limited time. In addition to these new ranges, the lunch menu is also getting a makeover with new salads, sandwiches, gazpachos and homemade desserts – all available for lunchtime delivery, perfect for an upcoming afternoon tea or business function. The in-house Chanmaly Florist is also expanding and will relocate to a dedicated space adjacent to the restaurant. For more information visit www.facebook.com/chanmalyrestaurant.

Chanmaly Loves CHARCUTERIE

Escape TO THE WATER’S EDGE

On your mark, get set, GO! If you're participating in this year's Luang Prabang Half-Marathon on October 12, stay with Burasari Heritage and they’ll pamper you and your entourage of supporters. Not only are they a short 10-minute walk to the start, Burasari Heritage is on the race course. The Half-Marathon package price includes: complimentary Airport Transfer; free WiFi, available throughout the hotel; complimentary international a la carte buffet breakfast daily; on race day, a special ‘Runner's Breakfast’ served at 4.30am, with low carbohydrates, low fat, high vitamin and moderate protein; special High Carb Pre-Race Dinner at The Terrace Restaurant for US$18 per person; complimentary Minibar, replenished once daily; complimentary Bicycle Rental, throughout your stay; 15% off Spa by Burasari; 15% off food at The Terrace Restaurant (excluding the special pre-race dinner); complimentary Morning Alms Giving Ceremony food basket (optional).

Terms & Conditions: offer valid for October 10-14, 2014, minimum 2-night stay. If cancelled or modified up to seven days before date of arrival, no fee will be charged. Cancellations made within seven days prior to arrival or no shows will be subject to full charge. Prices are per room per stay (maximum 2 persons/room). Direct booking only through www.burasariheritage.com or [email protected].

Burasari Heritage WELCOMES HALF-MARATHON

Toyota Motor Asia Pacific will sponsor the inaugural TOYOTA Mekong Club Championship taking place at the Hang Day stadium in Hanoi, Vietnam on October 31 and November 2 this year. The football tournament features the winning teams representing Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam. As the sponsor of the FIFA Club World Cup presented by TOYOTA, the AFC Asian Cup and other local football tournaments such as the Toyota Thai Premier League, this latest sponsorship is another show of Toyota’s support for the development of football globally and in the Mekong region.

Kyoichi Tanada, Managing Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation, said, “We are proud to sponsor what promises to be an excellent tournament demonstrating the unifying spirit of football, arguably the world’s most popular sport. We feel that the passion and energy of football resonates with Toyota’s constant pursuit in innovation to bring ‘ever better’ cars to our customers.” This is the first TOYOTA Mekong Club Championship tournament, and Toyota Motor Asia Pacific is collaborating with local soccer federations and associations in Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Vietnam to organise the tournament. For more details visit http://toyotamekongfootball.com.

TOYOTA SPONSORS INAUGURAL TOYOTA Mekong Club CHAMPIONSHIP

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Meditation sessions and classes are now available at Hotel Kiridara in Luang Prabang. Open classes run in the morning and the evening, with private classes available upon request. The open classes are a mix of traditional Hindu, Verdic, Buddhist and New Age meditation principles, with each session incorporating elements of breath, sound, movement and silence. Master or private classes can be scheduled and tailored to your own personal practices and requirements. All sessions are conducted in the purpose-built Sala which sits at the top of the Hotel Kiridara, looking across the Mekong and the old city into surrounding mountain ranges. Urban retreats, early morning and late evening meditation excursions are planned for later in the year. For more information contact Francis 002 2388 2330 or Michelle 020 5576 5574, or email [email protected] for a programme.

Stay connected and follow our most recent news activities and win some free vouchersat our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/sabaideemagazine

Welcome to Sabaidee Club! This is a space for our readers to take part in our monthly competition with the chance to win a variety of fantastic prizes.

This month we’d love to hear about your summer holidays, so tell us how you’ve spent your summer, or about any travels you have planned, or send us a snapshot of a holiday you’ve been on recently. Email your answer to [email protected], or post it on our Facebook page before August 9, 2014.

The winner will win a US$100 voucher to the luxurious Kiridara Luang Prabang hotel.

ຍນດຕອນຮບສ “ສະບາຍດ ຄລບ” ນເປນສະຖານທ ສາລບຜອານ ທຈະມສວນຮວມໃນການແຂງຂນປະຈາເດອນ ເພອໂອກາດຊະນະລາງວນຕາງໆ.

ເດອນນ ພວກເຮາຢາກໄດຍນ ກຽວກບມພກຜອນໄລຍະລະດຮອນຂອງທານ, ສະນນ ບອກພວກເຮາ ວາທານໃຊເວລາ ພກຜອນໃນລະດຮອນນຈງໃດ? ຫບອກກຽວກບ ການເດນທາງ ທທານໄດວາງແຜນ ຫສງຮບມພກຜອນທທານໄດໄປ ຫາສດມາໃຫພວກເຮາ

ອເມລຫາພວກເຮາ ທ [email protected] ຫ ໂພສລງເຟສບກ ກອນວນທ 9 ສງຫາ 2014.

ຜຊະນະລາງວນຈະໄດຮບບດມນຄາ 100 ໂດລາ ເພອໃຊບລການທ Kiridara Luang Prabang Hotel.

We are now on Instagram! Follow us aswe explore Laos on @sabaideemagazineສນໃຈເປນສະມາຊກ ວາລະສານ ສະບາຍດ

ຕດຕພວພນ ໂທ 021 454 782ຫ Email : [email protected]

Sayam International Group recently launched the new LG CURVED OLED TV at its Vientiane showroom. The innovative new product features a unique curved screen which enhances the quality of the picture and is ideal for optimal viewing at all perfect viewing angles. The screen also captures true depth image, accuracy and crisp lines. The LG CURVED OLED TV also featured 4 Colour Pixel technology and infinite contrast, giving images deeper, richer colours and stunning contrast. The launch was presided over by Ms Souphitsa Lamasoud, President of the Board Administrative Committee of Sayam International Group, and the event was attended by Mr Bong Sok Khim, of the Management Committee of LG Electronics Thailand Ltd. The television can currently be purchased on a down payment system with 0% interest, and there is a limited-time special price during the launch period.

SAYAM LAUNCHES LGCURVED OLED TV

FIND INNER Peace IN LUANG PRABANG

Lao Red Cross has lovingly restored its traditional sauna and massage centre, set in a colonial-era house in Ban Visoun, Luang Prabang. Treat yourself to authentic natural therapies and relax knowing that all profits support the work of Lao Red Cross. The herbal sauna, consisting of wooden steam rooms infused with lemongrass, kaffir lime, galangal and other medicinal plants, makes a memorable experience. Inhale the steam, sip on herbal tea and sweat it out with locals. Oil body massage and foot massage work on acupressure points to re-establish the energy flow throughout the body, improve circulation and promote relaxation. Combine the sauna with a massage for the ultimate way to refresh and revive your body, the traditional Lao way. Prices start from 10,000 kip for a herbal sauna/steam bath, an oil massage or foot massage is 50,000 kip per hour, aromatherapy oil massages are 80,000 kip per hour. The centre is open daily, with massages running between 1pm-9pm, and the sauna open from 4pm-8pm. For more information contact the Lao Red Cross traditional sauna and massage centre on (856-71) 252 856.

TRADITIONAL SAUNA AND MASSAGE WITH Lao Red Cross

WANT TO SUBSCRIBE TO SABAIDEE MAGAZINE? CALL US AT 021 454 782 FOR DETAILS OF OUR SUBSCRIPTION PLAN

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MY CITYinterview Kate Antonas photos courtesy Mattie DoWhat better way to get to know a city than through those who live, work, and play in it? Sabaidee Magazine chats to a resident to get an insider’s guide to their locale.

PROPELLING LAO CINEMA TO INTERNATIONAL SCREENS IS THE

COUNTRY’S FIRST FEMALE FEATURE FILM DIRECTOR, MATTIE DO,

WHOSE DEBUT FEATURE FILM ‘CHANTHALY’ (A GHOST-FILLED

HORROR EPIC) GARNERED ATTENTION ON FESTIVAL CIRCUITS IN

THE US, UK, ASIA AND EUROPE. WITH A BACKGROUND IN MAKEUP

ARTISTRY FOR FILM AND PHOTOGRAPHY IN ITALY, SHE RELOCATED

TO VIENTIANE WITH HER LAO-AMERICAN FAMILY IN 2010 AND

USED HER FILM-PRODUCTION KNOW-HOW TO GET HER FOOT IN

THE DOOR ON LOCAL MEDIA PROJECTS, AND IS NOW A DIRECTOR

AND PRODUCER AT LAO ART MEDIA. NOW, WITH HER FOLLOW-UP

HORROR FEATURE ‘NONG HAK (DEAREST SISTER)’ SET TO BE

RELEASED IN SPRING 2015, AND HAVING JUST RETURNED FROM

PARTICIPATING IN THE COVETED LA FABRIQUE DES CINÉMAS DU

MONDE AT THE CANNES FILM FESTIVAL 2014 – AN OPPORTUNITY

FOR EMERGING FILMMAKERS TO BE MENTORED AND PRESENT

THEIR FILMS TO POTENTIAL FUNDERS AT THE CANNES FILM

MARKET – MATTIE LIFTS THE LID ON HER LIFE IN THE CAPITAL.

| Behind the scenes, Mattie Do directing a traditional Lao wedding scene in her first film, ‘Chanthaly’. |

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ເມອງວຽງຈນຂອງຂອຍ

ການຂບເຄອນ ຮບເງາລາວ ສໜາຈສາກນ ແມນຜກາກບຮບເງາ ເລອງທເປນແມຍງຄນທາອດຂອງປະເທດ, ທານນາງ Mattie Do ຜທນາສະເໜຮບເງາເລອງ “ຈນທະລ” ຊງໄດຮບຄວາມສນໃຈຈາກກມມະ ຫະກາຮບເງາໃນປະເທດອາເມຣກາ ອງກດ ເອເຊຍ ແລະ ຢໂຣບ ຈາກປະສບ ການຄວາມຮດານສລະປະການແຕງໜາ ສາລບ ຮບເງາ ແລະ ການຖາຍພາບ ຢປະເທດອຕາລ, ທານຍາຍມາຢວຽງຈນ ກບຄອບຄວທເປນຄນລາວ-ອາເມຣກາ ໃນປ 2010 ແລະ ປດຈບນ ທານແມນຜກາກບ ແລະ ຜຜະລດຮບເງາ ທບລສດ ລາວອາທມເດຍ (Lao Art Media). ປດຈບນ ຮບເງາເລອງ ທມຊວາ “ນອງຮກ” ຈະອອກສາຍໃນລະດບານໃໝປ 2015 ນ ແລະ ໄດເຂາຮວມໃນ ງານ La Fabrique des Cinémas du Monde ທມະຫະກາຮບເງາທເຄນ (Cannes Film Festival) ຊງເປນໂອກາດ ຂອງນກສາງຮບເງາ ທໂດນເດນ ທຈະນາສະເໜ ຜນງານຂອງຕນຕຜໃຫທນ ໃນຕະຫາດຮບເງາ ທເມອງເຄນ Mattie ເປດຊວດຂອງທານໃນຕວເມອງ.

ມວທໃດອກທຈະຮຈກຕວເມອງໃດໜງໄດດໄປກວາການເລາ ຜານຜທອາໄສຢ ເຮດວຽກ ແລະ ໃຊຊວດທຽວກນຢໃນຕວເມອງ ນນເອງ, ວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ໄດໂອລມກບຄນທອງຖນ ເພອເປນຜນາທຽວແນະນາ ຕວເມອງຂອງເຂາເຈາເອງ.

ການດາລງຊວດຢເມອງວຽງຈນ ໄດສງຜນແນວໃດ ຕຜນງານທສາງສນຂອງທານ?ວຽກທງໝດຂອງຂາພະເຈາ ແມນກຽວຂອງຢໃນຕວເມອງວຽງຈນ ຄອບຄວຂອງຂາພະເຈາ ແມນມພນຖານຈາກຕວເມອງນ ແລະ ຂາພະເຈາພບວາ ໝດທກຄນຜດາເນນໂຄງການທສາງສນໃນທນ ແມນມທາອຽງຈະສມໃສໃນເຂດຊນນະບດຂອງລາວ ຂາພະເຈາສນ ໃຈໃນເຂດຕວເມອງຫາຍກວາ ມນມຄວາມກຽວຂອງຢາງວອງໄວ ແລະ ຂາພະເຈາຕອງການເອາສງດງກາວຜານຟມ, ຂາພະເຈາຕອງການຈະຈບເອາວຖຊວດປະຈາວນຂອງຄນໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ ຊງຂາ ພະເຈາຄດວາຍງບທນມການບອກເລາທພຽງພເທອ. ກະລນາແນະນາພວກເຮາໃຫຮຈກກບ ມປກກະຕຂອງ ການຜະລດຮບເງາ ໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ:ພວກເຮາຕນແຕເຊາໆ ກຽມລາຍການຖາຍທາ, ກະກຽມເສອຜາ ແລະ ແຕງໜາ ໃນຂະນະທທມງານພວມກະກຽມຕດຕງເຄອງ ມນເປນມທຍາວນານ ໃນມທຮອນອບເອາ ແລະ ສະພາບແວດລອມ ບວາຈະເປນສຽງນອງນນຂອງລດຕກຕກ ຫລວມໄປເຖງສຽງກບຂຽດ ຊງຍາກທຈະຄວບຄມ ຫງຈາກຖາຍທາໄດ 12 ຊວໂມງໃນມໜງ, ພວກເຮາໄດ ຖາຍທາປະມານ 20 ນາທ ຮບເງາ “ຈນທະລ” ໃຊເວລາຖາຍທາທງໝດ 60 ວນ. ຈງເລາໃຫພວກເຮາຟງກຽວກບການໃຊເວລາໃນທາຍ ອາທດຂອງທານ:ອອກໄປກນເຂາແລງນອກເຮອນ! ໃນເວລາກາງຄນ ບາງເທອພວກ ເຮາຈະໄປນດພບປະສງສນກນທຮານອາຫານ, ເລມຈາກດມຮອງ

MyVient iane

ທອງທ Ǣnoteca ຊງມວາຍອຕາລທດຢາງຫາກຫາຍ ຕຈາກນນກ ໄປຮບປະທານອາຫານຄາທ Ai Capone ສາລບອາຫານອຕາລແບບ ພນເມອງ ຂາພະເຈາບຄອຍອອກຈາກເມອງວຽງຈນ ຂາພະເຈາມວນຊນກບການໃຊເວລາຂອງຂາພະເຈາ ກບອາຫານ ວາຍ ແລະ ໝເພອນທດ.

ໃນຄວາມຄດຂອງທານ ຄວາມລບທຖກເກບມຽນທດທສດຂອງເມອງວຽງຈນແມນຫຍງ?ແມນ Apae Ice Cream ຢແຈມນຖະໜນເຈາອານ ແລະ ຕະຫາດ 450 ປ ຊງຮານ ແມນດາເນນກດຈະການ ໂດຍແມຍງອາວໂສຄນໜງ ທຂາຍກະແລມ ເຜອກ ໝາກພາວ ແລະ ຊອກໂກແລດ ທເຮດດວຍຕນເອງ ໃນລາຄາ 5.000 ກບ ຊງເອາກະແລມປນກບເຂາ ໜຽວຫວານ.

| Lao film represented at the Festival de Cannes for the first time in history. Mattie Do walks the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival. |

| Mattie Do during a live Q&A session after American au-diences view ‘Chanthaly’, a Lao film, for the first time at North America's largest genre film festival, Fantastic Fest. |

HOW DOES LIVING IN VIENTIANE INFLUENCE YOUR CREATIVE WORK?

All my work revolves around Vientiane, my family comes from here and I’ve found that most people who undertake creative projects here tend to focus on rural Laos. I’m more interested in the city – it’s evolving so quickly and I want to track that through film. I want to capture the stories of everyday people in Vientiane and their relationships, particularly from women’s point of view, which I don’t think are being told enough.

TAKE US THROUGH A TYPICAL DAY OF FILMING IN VIENTIANE:

It’s gruelling! We wake up very early and prepare shot lists and arrange wardrobe and makeup while the crew sets up. It’s very long days in the heat, and the environment and atmosphere – whether it be noisy tuk tuks or even frogs – is very hard to control. For a day shoot we’ll work from sunrise to sunset, for night shoots sunset to sunrise. After a 12 hour day we’ll end up with about 20 minutes of film – ‘Chanthaly’ took 60 days to shoot.

DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL WEEKEND IN VIENTIANE:

Dining out! I like to take my dog Mango with me to lunch, so we’ll find somewhere with outdoor seating. At night, sometimes we’ll go restaurant-hopping with friends, starting with apéritif at Ǣnoteca (facebook.com/AEnoteca) which has a phenomenal selection of Italian wine, and they have a cellar where you can order some antipasto while you drink. Then dinner at Ai Capone (facebook.com/Aicaponelaospdr) for amazing traditional Italian – it reminds me of my favourite restaurant in Rome, then dessert. I rarely leave Vientiane, I like to enjoy my time with good food, wine and friends.

WHAT, IN YOUR OPINION, IS VIENTIANE’S BEST KEPT SECRET?

Apae Ice Cream is a tiny shop on the corner of Chao Anou Road and the 450 Year Market. It’s run by a little old lady who sells homemade ice cream for 5,000 kip. She has taro, coconut, and chocolate flavours, and serves the scoops over sweet sticky rice in old-school metal bowls.

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SPOTLIGHT ON

5.00pm: Your evening in Luang Prabang starts about an hour before sunset with a cruise on the Mekong River. Grab a bottle or two of your favourite beverage and get to the banks of the river just as daylight begins to fade. You’ll find dozens of boat drivers ready to take you out on your own private cruise (usually about 120,000 kip for an hour or so). There are few travel moments as magical as when your driver turns off the engine and your boat floats gently downstream while you watch a jaw-dropping Mekong sunset. For a slightly more luxurious version, companies like Banana Boat Laos (www.bananaboatlaos.com) will bring the food and drink for you – and maybe even give you a temple tour before you go out on the water.

I Sunset over Luang Prabang. I

A PERFECT EVENING

IN LUANG PRABANGSLEEPY LUANG PRABANG ISN’T EXACTLY KNOWN FOR ITS NIGHTLIFE BUT, AS SABAIDEE MAGAZINE DISCOVERS, IF YOU KNOW WHAT YOU’RE DOING, YOU CAN EASILY HAVE A PERFECT EVENING WHILE YOU’RE IN TOWN.

words Justin Lancyphotos Justin Lancy/TravelerTech.com

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7.00pm: After the sun has gone on its way, ask your boat driver drop you off at the landing near the Royal Museum so you’ll be close to one of the best restaurants in town – Blue Lagoon (http://blue-lagoon-restaurant.com). Dinner at Swiss-trained chef Somsack Sengta’s eatery is a treat, serving you an eclectic mix of Lao and European dishes in a fine dining setting. Try his papaya salad or, if you’re in the mood for something more cheese-rich, his signature Aelpler Maggronen pasta might make you yodel with delight.

8.30pm: After dinner, take a left out of Blue Lagoon’s front door and you’ll soon be at the intersection where the Night Market begins. If you need a post-prandial stroll to walk off your dinner, make a right turn and meander through the market. If you’re ready for coffee and dessert, make a left and walk directly to Tangor (http://letangor.com), the Indochinese-inspired bistro created by Thibault Josse and Marie-Odile Clavel. Order an espresso, a digestif, or their wickedly-good chocolate lava cake. If your timing is right, you’ll be able to grab one of Tangor’s street-side tables and enjoy your post-dinner treat in a high-backed wicker chair – perfect for people-watching in comfort. I Blue Lagoon restaurant. Photo courtesy Blue

Lagoon. I

10.00pm: In the mood for a nightcap? Walk out the front door of Tangor, make a right turn, and continue walking down Sisavanvong Road until you get to a small, four-way intersection. Make a right turn heading down the hill (towards Wat Siphouttabath and the Nam Khan river road) and you’ll see Luang Prabang’s favourite bar – the Icon Klub (www.iconklub.com) – on the right-hand side. Popular with tourists and expats alike, Icon Klub is helmed by Lisa Vongsaravanh, a Hungarian artist who also mixes delicious, whimsically-named cocktails. Contemplate her collection of curiosities or perhaps read one of the dozens of inspirational quotes that are hung around the bar while you toast the end of your perfect evening. (The one by Yeats at the front door should be the bar’s motto: "There are no strangers here, only friends who haven't yet met.”)

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I Blue Lagoon restaurant. Photo courtesy Blue Lagoon. I

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17.00 ໂມງ: ຊວດຍາມແລງ ໃນເມອງຫວງພຣະບາງ ເລມປະມານ 1 ຊວໂມງກອນຕາເວນຕກດນ ດວຍການລອງເຮອຕາມລານາຂອງ ໃນເວລາທແສງແດດພວມອອນລງ, ທານຈະເຫນຄນຂບເຮອຈານວນຫາຍ ກຽມພອມທຈະນາທານ ສການລອງເຮອສວນຕວຂອງທານ (ປກກະຕ ລາຄາແມນຢປະມານ 120.000 ກບ ຕ ຊວໂມງ). ມນແມນໄລຍະເວລາ ທວເສດຫາຍ,ເມອຄນຂບເຮອຂອງທານມອດຈກເຮອ ແລະ ປອຍເຮອ ໃຫລອງລງຕາມສາຍນາຢາງຊາໆ ໃນຂະນະທທານມຄວາມສກກບການຊມຕາເວນກາລງເລອນລງຫບຂອບຟາ. ສາລບເຮອໃນລກສະນະທຫຫາ ກວາ, ບນດາບລສດ ເຊນ Banana Boat Laos ຈະໃຫບລການທານ ພອມທງອາຫານ ແລະ ເຄອງດມ ແລະ ອາດຈະພາທານທຽວຊມວດວາອາຣາມ ກອນທທານຈະຂນຝງ.

19.00 ໂມງ: ຫງຈາກເບງຕາເວນຕກດນແລວ ທານສາມາດ ບອກນາຍຂບເຮອຂອງທານ ສງທານທແຄມຝງໃກພຣະຣາຊວງເກາ ຊງທານຈະໄດສາຜດກບຮານອາຫານທດທສດແຫງໜງຂອງເມອງ ຮານ Blue Lagoon ພຄວ ທານສມສກ ແສງຕາ ຈະໃຫບລການທານ ໃນລາຍ ການອາຫານປະສມປະສານລະຫວາງອາຫານລາວ ແລະ ຢໂຣບ ກບບນຍາກາດທອບອນ ລອງຊມລາຍການອາຫານ ຕາໝາກຫງຂອງລາວ ຫຖາທານຕອງການອາຫານທມເນຍ ພສຕາ ແມນຈະໄດຮບການແນະນາ.

20.30 ໂມງ: ຫງຈາກຮບປະທານອາຫານຄາແລວ ອອກຈາກປະຕຮານ Blue Lagoon ໄປທາງຊາຍມ ທານກຈະພບຈດເຊອມ ບອນທຕະຫາດຫດຖະກາກາງຄນເລມຕນ ຖາທານຕອງການທຈະຍາງເພອຍອຍອາຫານ, ລຽວຂວາ ແລະ ສາຫວດຕະຫາດກາງຄນ. ຖາທານພອມສາລບ ການດມກາເຟ ແລະ ອາຫານຫວານໃຫລຽວຊາຍ ແລະ ຍາງກງໄປທຮານ Tangor ເປນບາລກສະນະອນໂດຈນ ທສາງສນໂດຍ Thibault Josse ແລະ Marie-Odile Clavel ສງເອກສະເປໂຊ ຫ ເຄກຊອກໂກແລດລາວາທແຊບຂອງຮານ ຖາທານມາໃນເວລາທເໝາະສມ ທານກຈະໄດໂຕະ-ຕງນງແຄມຖະໜນ ມຄວາມສກກບອາຫານຮອບເດກໃນຊດຕງຫວາຍ ທນງສະບາຍເໝາະ ສາລບຜທຕອງການຄວາມສະດວກສະບາຍ.

22.00 ໂມງ : ມຄວາມຕອງການທຈະມຄວາມບນເທ ງ ໃນລກສະນະສະຖານທບນເທງ! ຍາງອອກທາງປະຕໜາ ຂອງຮານ Tangor ລຽວຂວາ ແລະ ສບຕຍາງລງໄປ ຕາມຖະໜນ ສສະຫວາງວງ ຈນກວາທານຈະເຫນ 4 ແຍກນອຍ ໆແລວລຽວຂວາຍາງລງໄປຕາມທາງຄອຍ (ໄປຫາວດສພດທະບາດ ແລະ ຖະໜນແຄມນາການ) ທານ ກຈະພບບາ ທໄດຮບຄວາມນຍມແຫງໜງຂອງຫວງພຣະບາງ, ຮານ Icon Klub ທາງເບອງຂວາມ ຊງໄດຮບຄວາມນຍມໃນກມນກທອງທຽວ ແລະ ຄນຕາງຖນ Icon Klub ແມນບລຫານໂດຍ Lisa Vongsaravanh, ນກສລະປນ ຊາວຮງກາຣ ຜທສາມາດປງຄອກເທວໄດດຫາຍ ຊນຊມກບຜນງານການສະສມສງທສນໃຈຂອງເຈາຂອງຮານ ຫອານຂຄວາມທໃຫແຮງບນດານໃຈ ຫາຍຢາງ ທຫອຍຕາມບາ ໃນຂະນະທທານມຄວາມສກກບການ ຍກຈອກສະຫອງຄາຄນທແສນວເສດຂອງທານ.

ຫວງພຣະບາງ ທຫບໄຫ ບເປນທຮຈກໃນດານຊວດໃນຍາມກາງຄນ, ແຕວາ ເທາທວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ໄດສາຫວດມາ ຖາວາທານຮໃນສງ ທທານເຮດ ທານກຈະສາມາດມໄລຍະເວລາ ຄອຍຄາຍາມແລງ ທວເສດ ໃນຂະນະທທານ ພກຢໃນເມອງນ.

ອດສະດງຍາມແລງທແສນວເສດທຫວງພຣະບາງ

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Page 26: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

FURTHER AFIELDwords James Elton-Pymphotos courtesy WCS/NEPL

Deep in the jungle of Laos’ largest nat iona l park, a dwindling tiger population is fighting for survival, along with many other species. Could an innovative ecotourism scheme be the key to making Nam Et - Phou Louey’s wildlife more valuable alive than strung out to dry in the bushmeat markets?

ເໝອນດງ ເສອ ໃນແສງໂຄມໄຟ: ວທການ ທໂຄງການທອງທຽວປາໃນຍາມຄາຄນ ຢເຂດນາເນນ

ຕສຍາດແຍງ ດວຍວຖ ການທອງທຽວ

ເຂາໄປໃນປາເລກ ຂອງເຂດປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດ ທໃຫຍທສດໃນ ສປປ ລາວ ຊງມຈານວນປະຊາກອນເສອ ທຫດລງ, ກາລງຕສ ເພອການຢລອດ ໄປພອມໆກບ ສດ ແລະ ພດພນຊະນດອນໆ ອກຈານວນຫາຍ ໂຄງການທອງທຽວແບບອະນລກ ທາມະຊາດທສາງສນ ຈະເປນກນແຈສາຄນ ເພອເຮດໃຫສດປາ ໃນນາແອດ-ພເລຍ (Nam Et – Phou Louey) ມຄນຄາໃນການອະນລກໃຫມຊວດຢດກວາ ການໄລລາ ເພອຂາຍໃນຕະຫາດບ?

LIKE A TIGER IN THE TORCHLIGHT:

HOW THE Nam Nern Night Safari FIGHTS POACHING WITH TOURISM

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They’re solitary animals, hunting alone in the dense undergrowth of Southeast Asian jungles where their golden fur won’t be spotted by prey. Capable of bringing down deer much larger than they are, they’re an apex predator at the top of the food chain.

Except they’re not. Indo-Chinese tigers are in rapid decline as they are hunted into nonexistence, targeted by poachers looking to capitalise on the premium prices for exotic tiger meat and the unwavering demand for the ingredients to make Chinese traditional medicines. A wild tiger can fetch between US$10,000 and US$70,000 on the international black market.

Laos’ largest national park, the Nam Et - Phou Louey National Protected Area, is one of the final battlegrounds that will determine the species’ survival. It’s one of the only remaining places where the species naturally breeds, and yet with only somewhere between seven and 23 tigers remaining in the park, each one poached pushes the population closer to the brink.

Tigers were just one of many threatened species the Wildlife Conservation Society was hoping to help protect when it launched the Nam Nern Night Safari in the national park in 2009. Walking the line between preserving those species and respecting the right of local Lao to hunt for subsistence, the WCS devised a plan as cunning as the tigers themselves.

Tourists are taken down a river in boats at night, floating with the engines off, bearing headlamps with which to spot wild animals. But the genius is in the way the visitor fees are distributed. For each animal tourists spot, money is paid to a village development fund, commensurate to that animal’s rarity. This creates a direct incentive for conservation, and a tangible, monetary value for animals who are alive.

The less the villagers hunt, the more money flows in from increased tourist sightings. It’s a process they can see at work – sightings of rare species increased from around two per boat in 2008-09 to nearly five per boat in 2012-13.

LIKE A TIGER IN THE TORCHLIGHT:

HOW THE Nam Nern Night Safari FIGHTS POACHING WITH TOURISM

ພວກເຂາເປນສດສນໂດດ ຫາເຫຍອຕາມລາພງ ໃນປາຕບ ພາຍໃຕປາດງດບ, ພາກພນເອເຊຍຕາເວນອອກສຽງໃຕ ບອນຊງ ຂນທເປນດງຄາຂອງພວກເຂາ ບໄດຖກແຕງແຕມດວຍເຫຍອ ຄວາມອາດສາມາດ ທຈະລມກວາງທມຂະໜາດໃຫຍກວາພວກ ມນໄດ ພວກມນຖກຈດເປນສດໃນລະດບຊນສງອງຕາມຕອງ ໂສອາຫານ.

ຍກເວນແຕບແມນພວກເຂາ, ເສອ ອນໂດຈນ ແມນມຈານວນ ຫດລງຢາງໄວວາ ເນອງຈາກພວກເຂາ ຖກໄລລາ ຈນກວາຈະສນພນ ຊງແມນເປາໝາຍຂອງນກລາສດ ທຫາລາຍໄດ ຈາກລາຄາທແພງ ສາລບ ຊນເສອທຫາຍາກນ ແລະ ຄວາມຕອງການທສງ ເພອໃຊເປນສວນປະສມ ໃນການເຮດຢາພນເມອງຈນ, ເສອປາ ສາມາດ ມລາຄາ ລະຫວາງ US$10.000 ຈນເຖງ US$70.000 ຢຕະຫາດຜດກດໝາຍໃນສາກນ.

ປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດ ທໃຫຍທສດ ຂອງ ສປປ ລາວ, ປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດ ນາແອດ-ພເລຍ ແມນໜງໃນສະໜາມ ຮບສດທາຍທຈະຕດສນການມຊວດຢລອດ ຂອງເສອແນວພນ ຕາງໆ ມນແມນສະຖານທດຽວທເຫອຢທມການແຜພນເສອ ແບບທາມະຊາດ ແລະ ມຈານວນເສອ ລະຫວາງ 7 ແລະ 23 ໂຕ ເຫອຢໃນປາສະຫງວນແຫງນ, ແຕລະໂຕ ທຖກລາ ເຮດໃຫປະຊາ ກອນເສອຫຍບໃກເຂາສການສນພນ.

ເສອ ແມນໜງໃນຈານວນແນວພນສດຕາງໆ ທມຄວາມສຽງສນ ພນ ໂຄງການອະນລກສດປາ (Wildlife Conservation Society) ມຄວາມຫວງວາ ຈະສາມາດຊວຍອະນລກພວກເຂາ ໄວໄດ, ເມອໂຄງການໄດເລມໂຄງການການທອງທຽວ Nam Nern Night Safari ໃນເຂດປາສະຫງວນແຫງນ ໃນປ 2009 ການປະຕບດຢ ລະຫວາງການອະນລກ ຊະນດແນວພນສດປາ ແລະ ການເຄາລບຕສດຂອງຄນທອງຖນຂອງລາວໃນການລາ ສດ ເພອການຢລອດ, ອງການ WCS ໄດສາງແຜນການທສະຫາດ ຂນເໝອນດງເສອທສະຫາດ.

ນກທອງທຽວ ໄດຮບການຕອບສະໜອງ ນາທຽວ ແບບນງຢເຮອ ລອງໄປຕາມແມນາ ໂດຍການມອດຈກເຮອໃສໄຟສາຍເທງຫວ ເພອໃຊເຍອງເບງສດປາ, ແຕວາຄວາມສະຫາດ ແມນຢທການ ຈາຍ ຂອງນກທອງທຽວຈາຍແມນໄດປະກອບສວນເຂານາ, ສາລບສດແຕລະຊະນດທນກທອງທຽວເຫນ ເງນ ແມນຈະຖກຈາຍໃຫແກກອງທນພດທະນາໝບານ,ອງຕາມຄວາມຫາຍາກຂອງຊະນດສດປາ ດງກາວ ສງນ ໄດ ເປນສງຂບເຄອນໂດຍກງ ໃນການອະນລກ ແລະ ສາມາດເຫນເປນຮບປະທາ ຄນຄາຂອງ ເງນຕາມສດທຍງມຊວດຢ.

ເມອຊາວບານລາສດໜອຍລງ ຈານວນເງນໄຫເຂາໝບານຈະ ເພມຂນ ຈາກການທນກທອງທຽວ ເຫນສດປາເພມຂນ ມນແມນ ຂະບວນການທພວກເຂາ ສາມາດເຫນໄດຈາກວຽກທພວກເຂາ ເຮດເອງ, ການເຫນສດຫາຍາກ ໄດເພມຂນ ຈາກປະມານ 2 ໂຕ ຕເຮອລາໜງ ໃນປ 2008-2009 ມາເປນເກອບ 5 ໂຕ ຕເຮອລາໜງໃນປ 2012-2013.

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ການທອງທຽວປາກາງຄນ safari ຕອງການຜນາທຽວທມປະສບການ ມຄວາມສາມາດ ໃນການ ເຍອງຫາສດປາໃນບອນມດໄດ ຄາຕອບທພວກເຂາໄດ ແມນສະຫາດຫາຍ, ນກລາສດເກາ ໄດຖກ ສະເໜໃຫຮບໜາທເປນຜນາທຽວ ຊງມເງອນໄຂວາພວກເຂາຕອງຢດເຊາອາຊບເກາ.

“ຜນາທຽວ ແມນມຄວາມສາມາດທໜາອດສະຈນຫາຍ ໃນການເຍອງຫາສດປາປະມານເຄງໜງ ຂອງສດປາທພວກເຂາເຫນ, ນກທອງທຽວແມນບສາມາດເຫນເນອງຈາກວາມນແມນເລອງທຍາກ ຫາຍ ທຈະເຍອງໄຟຫາສດປາໃນເວລາກາງຄນ” ທານ Paul Eshoo, ຜແນະນາດານການ ທອງທຽວອະນລກ ໃຫແກອງການ WCS ຜທໃຫຄາແນະນາ ໂຄງການທອງທຽວປາກາງຄນ ກາວ.

ແຕການຫນປຽນຈາກນກລາ ມາເປນຜສງເກດການທງຽບສະຫງບບແມນເລອງທງາຍສະເໝໄປ ຊງມນຍາກທຈະເຍອງເຫນສດປາໃນຂະນະທຢກບນກທອງທຽວ ແລະ ບຢາກກບຄນ ມາເພອລາ.

“ຜນາທຽວແຕລະຄນ ໄດເຊນສນຍາ ກບເຂດສະຫງວນ ແລະ ບານ ກາວວາ ຖາພວກເຂາໄປລາສດ ຢາງຜດກດໝາຍ ໃນເຂດອະນລກ, ພວກເຂາຈະເສຍໂອກາດໃນການເຮດວຽກເປນອາຊບຜນາ ທຽວ”, ທານ ກາວ. “ເຖງແມນວາ ຜນາທຽວຂອງພວກເຮາທງໝດໄດເຊນສນຍາແລວ ແຕບາງຄນກ ຍງລະເມດສນຍາ”.

ຜນາທຽວ ແມນໄດຮບອະນຍາດໃຫສບຕລາສດແບບຍນຍງ ນອກເຂດອະນລກ ເນອງຈາກ ວາ “ມນບແມນສງຜດກດໝາຍ ໃນການລາສດ ຢເຂດຊມຊນແຄມປາ ທບແມນສດຫວງຫາມ ເຊນ: ໝປາ, ການນາໃຊເຄອງມຫາປາແບບດງເດມ ໃນເຂດ ນາໃຊຂອງໝບານ”, ທານ Eshoo ກາວ.

ປຽນຈາກ ຈບປນ ມາໃສໂຄມໄຟສາຍເທງຫວ ເຍອງທາງ ເພອການ ທອງທຽວ

The safari needed highly skilled guides, capable of spotting animals in the pitch black. The answer they found was ironic and ingenious – the former hunters were offered jobs as guides, conditional to them giving up their old trade.

“The guides are really amazing with finding wildlife. About half of the wildlife that they see, tourists cannot see because it is so difficult to [spot] animals at night,” Paul Eshoo, an ecotourism advisor for the WCS who oversees the safari, says.

But the transition from hunter to peaceful observer isn’t always an easy one, with some finding it difficult to spot wildlife while with tourists and then not return to the place of the sighting later to hunt.

“Each guide signs a contract with the protected area and village that states that if they go hunting inside the core zone illegally, then they will lose their opportunity to be a guide,” he says. “Although most of our guides have adhered to the contract, unfortunately, some have broken the contract.”

The guides are actually allowed to continue hunting sustainably outside the main protected area, as “it's actually not illegal for forest-edged communities to hunt non-protected species, such as wild pig, using traditional methods in their village use area”, Mr Eshoo says.

Swapping guns for headlamps

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Mr Eshoo says threats to wildlife in Nam Et - Phou Louey are rising. Villagers still lay metal snare traps to snag tigers and other large animals near their fields.

And yet in the Nam Nern area specifically, the programme seems to be yielding some results. “It seems that threats in the Nam Nern area have not increased as much as other areas and have flatlined over the past two years,” Mr Eshoo says. With pressures on the park so high, achieving a plateau is a victory in itself.

Tigers remain at critical risk. With the number remaining possibly as low as seven, even one or two poached in a year could send the population into an irreversible downwards spiral.

A whole host of other animals, meanwhile, are seeing good results. “There are many ungulates that tourists see regularly and which seem to be doing well, including Sambar deer and barking deer. Other commonly seen species include civets . . . , loris and monitor lizards. We have also seen bears, Asian golden cat and dhole (a wild dog) along the river, which is a very good sign,” Mr Eshoo says.

Residents in the area have been calling for more tourism to bring more money into the village. Mr Eshoo says the Night Safari has had 500 visitors so far, but needs more to keep the conservation incentives strong.

ເມອແມວບຢ ໜກມວນຊນ ການວດແທກຄວາມສາເລດ

ທານ Eshoo ກາວວາ: ໄພຂມຂຕສດປາ ໃນເຂດນາແອດ-ພເລຍ ແມນມເພມຂນ ຊາວບານ ຍງຫາງແຫວທເຮດດວຍເຫກ ເພອຈບເສອ ແລະ ສດໃຫຍອນໆໃກທງນາ ຂອງພວກເຂາ.

ຍງບເທານນ, ສະເພາະໃນເຂດນາເນນໂຄງການ ແມນສງຜນບາງຢາງໃຫເຫນ. “ສງເກດເຫນວາ ໄພຂມຂໃນເຂດນາເນນ ແມນບເພມຂນ ຫາຍເທາກບເຂດອນ ແລະ ບເພມຂນໃນໄລຍະ 2 ປຜານມາ”, ທານ Eshoo ກາວ. ເນອງຈາກຄວາມກດດນໃນ ເຂດປາສະຫງວນມຫາຍ, ຄວາມສາເລດໃນເຂດພພຽງແມນໄຊຊະນະໃນຕວເອງແລວ.

ເສອ ແມນຍງຢໃນອດຕາສຽງຕການສນພນ ດວຍຈານວນທຍງເຫອຢ ອາດຈະມຕາ ເຖງ 7 ໂຕ ເຖງແມນວາການຖກລາ 1 ຫ 2 ໂຕ ຕປ ກສາມາດເຮດໃຫຈານວນປະຊາ ກອນເສອສນພນຢາງຖາວອນໄດ.

ສດປາປະເພດອນໆ ໃນຂະນະນ ແມນຍງຢໃນທວງທາດຢ. “ມສດ 4 ຕນຫາຍຊະນດ ທນກທອງທຽວເຫນເປນປະຈາ ແລະ ພວກເຂາ ກດາລງຊວດດຢ ຊງລວມມ ກວາງ ແຊມບາ (Sambar deer) ແລະ ໂຕເກງ (barking deer) ສດປາຊະນດອນໆທເຫນເປນປະຈາ ລວມມ civets, . . . , ລງລມ (loris) ແລະ ແລນ (monitor lizards). ພວກເຮາຍງເຫນ ໝ ແມວຄາ ອາຊຽນ (Asian golden cat) ແລະ ໝາປາ (dhole) ຕາມແຄມແມນາ ຊງເປນສນຍະລກອນດ”, ທານ Eshoo ກາວ.

ຊາວບານໃນເຂດພນທ ຂໃຫມນກທອງທຽວຫາຍຂນ ເພອນາເງນຕາເຂາມາສໝ ບານ, ທານ Eshoo ກາວວາ: ໂຄງການທອງທຽວ Night Safari ໄດມແຂກປະມານ 500 ຄນຜານມາ, ແຕຍງຕອງການຫາຍຕມ ເພອເຮດໃຫການຂບເຄອນການອະນລກເຂມແຂງຂນ.

When the cats are away, the prey will play: measures of success

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Animal recovery, by numbersGlobal Indo-Chinese population as of 2007 when last surveyed: Less than 2,500, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Indo-Chinese tigers left in China: 0

Indo-Chinese tigers in Nam Et - Phou Louey: 7 - 23

Average rare animal sightings per Night Safari boat in 2008-09: 2

Average rare animal sightings per Night Safari boat in 2012-13: nearly 5

The ItineraryWhen visiting the Nam Nern Night Safari, most tourists start from Viengthong (which has recently been renamed Muang Hiem), where the park headquarters are, but the tour starts in the nearby village of Ban Son Koua. From the village, you travel by boat upriver on the Nam Nern, stopping at a “sanam” – a temporary settlement where villagers stay during the rice planting season.

The river then leads into the national park. If conditions are right, tourists can visit a mineral lick to see animal tracks. In the evening, visitors eat a local-style picnic dinner. The guides might then tell some local folktales before the boats set off for the Night Safari itself, where the guides help tourists spot rare wildlife with headlamps.

Visitors stay overnight in an eco-lodge built by the community inside the national park. In the morning, the guides take you for a walk around the camp to an old stupa where they tell you about the history of the village before and during the Secret War, and teach you about medicinal plants that they find along the way. After breakfast, the boats float downriver to look at birds and take in the natural sights and sounds. The trip returns to the village by about 11am the next day.

Primates, pigs and pythons: the animals you might seeSpecies that might be seen on the safari include Sambar deer, various species of civets, barking deer, otters, Asian golden cats, dhole, sun bears, pythons, lorises, Chinese serow, hog badgers, porcupines, spotted Linsang, wild pigs, monitor lizards, bears and macaques. Tiger sightings are extremely rare – evidence of their tracks, a little less so.

ສດຈາພວກລງ ໝ ແລະ ງເຫອມ ສດທທານອາດ ເຫນໃນການທອງທຽວ

ຊະນດສດປາ ທທານສາມາດເຫນ ໃນຂະນະທອງທຽວປາກາງຄນ ລວມມ ກວາງ ແຊມບາ (Sambar deer) ສດທຄາຍຄແມວ (civets ) ຊະນດຕາງໆ ເກງ (barking deer) ນາກນາ (otters) ແມວສທອງເອເຊຍ (Asian golden cats) ໝາປາ (dhole) ໝ (sun bears) ງເຫອມ (pythons) ລງລມ (lorises) ແບຈນ (Chinese serow), ສດຄາຍໝ (hog badgers), ເໝນ (porcupines) spotted Linsang ໝປາ ແລນ (monitor lizards) ໝ (bears) and ລງ (macaques) ການເຫນເສອແມນ ເປນເລອງທຫາຍາກຫາຍ ການເຫນຮອງຮອຍເສອ ກແມນພບ ເຫນໜອຍທສດ.

ຕາຕະລາງການດການເດນທາງ

ເມອທອງທຽວ ໃນລາຍການທຽວ Nam Nern Night Safari ນກທອງທຽວທງໝດ ແມນເລມຈາກເມອງວຽງທອງ (ຊງໃນມໆມານ ໄດຖກປຽນຊມາເປນເມອງຮຽມ) ບອນທຫອງການຫກ ຂອງປາສະຫງວນຕງຢ, ແຕການທອງທຽວ ແມນເລມຈາກ ບານທຢໃກຄຽງ ຊງແມນ ບານສນຂວ, ຈາກບານນ ທານຈະໄດເດນທາງດວຍເຮອ ຂຂນຕາມແມນາເນນ, ຈດຢ “ສະໜາມ” ທພກຊວຄາວ ບອນທຊາວບານອາໄສຢ ໃນລະຫວາງລະດເຮດນາ.

ຂຂນຕາມລາແມນາ ແລະ ເຂາໄປຫາເຂດປາສະຫງວນແຫງຊາດ ຖາເງອນໄຂອານວຍ ນກທອງທຽວຈະໄດຢຽມຢາມບແຮທາດ ທສດມກໄປເລຍກນ (mineral lick) ເພອເບງ ຮອງຮອຍ ສດ. ໃນຕອນແລງ, ແຂກຈະໄດຮບປະທານອາຫານຄາ ກນເຂາປາແບບ ພນບານ ຜນາທຽວ ອາດຈະເລານທານ ຫເລອງລາວພາຍໃນທອງຖນໃຫທານຟງ ກອນ ທເຮອຈະເລມອອກສາຫວດປາໃນເວລາກາງຄນ Night Safari ຊງຜນາທຽວທເປນຄນ ທອງຖນ ຈະຊວຍເຍອງໄຟສາຍທຕດຢຫວຂອງເຂາເຈາ ຫາສດປາທຫາຍາກ ແລະ ສນຍານໃຫນກທອງທຽວໄດເບງ.

ບນດາແຂກ ຈະໄດນອນພກ ທເຮອນພກໄມບາງກະໂລ ໃນເຂດປາສະຫງວນ ຊງເຮອນ ພກ ແມນສາງໂດຍຊມຊນທອງຖນ, ໃນຕອນເຊາ ຜນາທຽວຈະພາທານຍາງທຽວຊມບລ ເວນອອມແອມທພກ ເພອໄປເບງທາດເກາ ຊງພວກເຂາຈະເລາໃຫທານຮກຽວກບປະ ຫວດ ຂອງບານ ກອນ ແລະ ຫງ ສງຄາມທລກລບ (Secret War) ແລະ ໃຫຂມນແກທານ ກຽວກບພດເປນຢາຕາງໆ ທພບເຫນຕາມທາງ ຫງຈາກຮບປະທານອາຫານເຊາແລວ ແຂກຈະໄດຂເຮອລອງຕາມລາແມນາ ເພອເບງນກ ແລະ ຊມ-ຟງສຽງຂອງທາມະຊາດ, ກມນກທອງທຽວເດນທາງ ກບຄນເຂາມາບານສນຂວ ໃນເວລາ 11.00 ໂມງ ໃນມຕມາ.

ຕາຕະລາງການດການເດນທາງ

• ຈານວນ ເສອ ພນອນໂດຈນທວໂລກ, ໃນປ 2007 ການສາຫວດຄງຫາສດ: ນອຍກວາ 2,500 ໂຕ *ອງຕາມ ອງການ ອະນລກທາມະຊາດສາກນ (IUCN)

• ເສອ ພນອນໂດຈນເຫອຢຈນ: 0

• ເສອ ພນອນໂດຈນ ໃນປາສະຫງວນນາແອດ-ພເລຍ ແມນ: 7 – 23 ໂຕ

• ການເຫນສດທຫາຍາກ ສະເລຍ ຕເຮອລາໜງຂອງການທອງທຽວປາກາງຄນ Night Safari ໃນປ 2008-2009 ແມນ: 2 ໂຕ

• ການເຫນສດທຫາຍາກ ສະເລຍ ຕເຮອລາໜງຂອງການທອງທຽວປາກາງຄນ Night Safari ໃນປ 2012-2013 ແມນ: ເກອບ 5 ໂຕ

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SABAIDEE COVERwords Kate Antonasphotos Nadine Dayag

ເຄອງດມຄອກເທວການເກບຕວຢາງຄອກເທວຣດຊາດດ ທຄນສວນໃຫຍນຍມດມພາບອາຫານທຫຫາ ໄດມຢໃນເມອງວຽງຈນຮຽບຮອຍນຄຈດສນກາງອາຫານລະດບພາກພນ ແລະ ສງທດກວາເພອຕມເຕມຄວາມສະເໝພາບລະດບສາກນໃນການໃຫຫາຍກວາວດທະນະທ�ເຄອງດມຄອກເທວທເກດໃໝ ຈດໝາຍປາຍທາງຂອງການດມແບບເຢນໆ ແປກປະຫາດສດຊນແບບເບາໆ ແມນໄດເກດຂນທວຕວເມອງ ເສບແບບປະສມປະສານກບເຄອງດມຂອງສງຄມຊນສງ ແລະສວນ ປະສມທອງຖນທມຄນນະພາບ

ຈາກ Minty mojito ທສມບນຫາ Delightful daiquiri ວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ໄດຢຽມຢາມ ສວນໜງຂອງຮານເຄອງດມຄອກເທວທດສດຂອງເມອງວຽງຈນ ເພອເປນຕວຢາງເຄອງໝາຍຂອງ ເຄອງດມດງກາວ ແນນອນມເຫາຫາຍປະເພດມລດຊາດທແຊບກວາສ�ລບທານເພອທຈະຊມ ສະນນ ພວກເຮາໄດໃຫທານຄນພບກບແນວທາງເຄອງດມ ທທານນຍມຊມຊອບດມຕະຫອດດມຢາງມຄວາມຮບຜດຊອບ ແລະ ຖາທານພວມວາງແຜນທຈະອອກທຽວກາງຄນ ໃຫແນໃຈວາຕອງໃຊບລການລດໂດຍສານມວນຊນປະຈ�ທາງ (ລດເມ ເທກຊ ຫ ຕກໆ ເພອຈະກບເຖງ ເຮອນຢາງປອດໄພ

A flourishing dining scene has already established Vientiane as a regional culinary hotspot, and what better to complement the ever-growing international fare on offer than an emerging cocktail culture. Leading the charge is a smattering of cool, quirky and refreshingly unpretentious drinking destinations popping up across the capital, serving up impeccably executed blends of top shelf liqueurs and quality local ingredients. These days, the city’s cosy small bars and inventive eateries are crafting some of the best cocktails this side of the Mekong, ideal for an end of week wind down, after dark aperitif, or low-key nightcap.

From a perfectly minty mojito to a delightful daiquiri, Sabaidee Magazine visited a handful of the city’s best cocktail haunts to sample their signature concoctions. Of course, there’s many more delicious brews for you to sip, so we’ve left room for you to uncover your own favourite watering holes too. As always, drink responsibly and if you’re planning a night out, be sure to arrange a taxi or tuk tuk to get you home safely.

| Jai, head bartender at The Spirit House. |

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Page 33: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

ເຄອງດມຄອກເທວການເກບຕວຢາງຄອກເທວຣດຊາດດ ທຄນສວນໃຫຍນຍມດມ

Undoubtedly The Spirit House’s signature concoction is the Pimms Julep, touted as the comeback of the quintessential English aperitif, a tantalising combination of strawberry puree (made with fresh berries no less) muddled with mint and lime, and topped with ginger ale. The result is refreshing and fruity, with the tart strawberry flavour perfectly balanced by the blend of cool mint and ginger. Jai says the Pimms Julep is the most popular cocktail, particularly in the summer months, and on some nights the staff will make up to 30 of these.

Pull up a chair in the airy timber-decked interior, or claim a table on the sprawling leafy terrace which looks directly out onto the Mekong – perfect for a relaxed sundowner under the bar’s iconic red umbrellas. Pair your drink of choice with a selection of moreish European-inspired tapas like the legendary blue cheese and pumpkin arancini, or regional bar snacks like Kai Hun – fried river-weed with sesame, cherry tomato and garlic.

Happy Hour: Daily 5pm-8pm, 25% off all cocktails O: Daily 7am-11pmA: 93/09 Fa Ngum Road, Ban Seetarn NeuaT: 021 243 795W: www.thespirithouselaos.com

ຮານ Spirit House ແມນໄດເກບຫຫອມຊສຽງ ຄເປນສະຖານທດມຄອກເທວທມຄນນະພາບໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ, ຮານອາຫານ ພອມດວຍ ບາ ມຫຍງແດ ທອາດຈະເປນເມນເຄອງດມ ຄອກເທວແບບດງເດມທດທສດໃນເມອງ ແລະ ເປນໄປໄດໃນທວປະເທດ. ຫວໜາ ບາເທນເດ ທານ ໃຈ ໄດພດທະນາຝມຂອງລາວ ມາເປນເວລາ 7 ປ ແລະ ນາທມງານຂອງ ລາວ ໃນການສາງສນເຄອງດມແບບຄາດຊກ ຄກບຕະວນອອກ ແລະ ໂທນກລອນດອນຂອງ ກາດອນແຫງ ປະສມກບຊາຂຽວຍປນ ແລະນ�ເຜງລາວ ໝາກນາວສດໆ ແລະນ�ໂທນກ ແລະ Castro’s Mojito ປນແບບຄວບາຄາດຊກ ປະສມກບ ເບຍລາວເຢນໆ. ແນນອນ ທານຈະພບກບລາຍການເຄອງດມທມກ ເຊນ Negroni, Daiquiri Caipirinha, ແຕວາ ໃສຊໃໝເຊນ Zen Master ແລະ Mekong High Tea ຕາມລາຍການເຄອງດມ, ອາດຈະເປນເລອງຍາກທບຕອບສະໜອງຄວາມຢາກຮຢາກເຫນຂອງທານ.

ເຄອງດມປະສມທເປນສນຍະລກຂອງຮານ Spirit House ແມນ Pimms Julep ຄເປນການກບ ມາຂອງເຫາອງກດທວໄປ ປະສມປະສານລະຫວາງພລ ສະຕເບຣສດໆ ປນກບມນ ກບໝາກ ນາວ ແລະ ໂຮຍດວຍນ�ຂງ ຜນຄ ເປນໝາກໄມສດໆ ແລະສດຊນ ດວຍລດຊາດສະຕເບຣ ທສມບນ ຊງປະສມກບມນເຢນ ແລະ ຂງ. ທານ ໃຈໄດກາວວາ: Pimms Julep ແມນເຄອງດມ ຄອກເທວທນຍມທສດ ໂດຍສະເພາະ ໃນໄລຍະເດອນໃນລະດຮອນ ແລະ ໃນບາງຄາຄນ ພະນກງານຈະປະສມເຄອງດມດງກາວ ເຖງ 30 ເທອ.

ດງຕງອໄມ ທປະດບພາຍໃນ ຫຮອງຂໂຕະຕາມລະບຽງ ເພອສາມາດເບງເຫນແມນ�ຂອງໂດຍກງ ທສດ ສາລບການພກຜອນ ຂອງຄນມກເບງຕາເວນຕກດນ ພາຍໃຕຄນຮມສແດງສນຍະລກຂອງບາ. ເລອກເຄອງດມຂອງທານຕາມໃຈມກ ກບການຄດເລອກ ທາປາສ ໂມລສ ຄເປນຊດບ ໃນຕານານ ແລະ arancini ໝາກອ ຫ ອາຫານວາງຂອງບາຕາມພາກພນ ເຊນ: ໄກຫນ.

ເປດບລການ: ທກໆມ 17.00 – 20.00 ໂມງ, ຫດ 25% ຂອງລາຄາເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ A: 93/09 ຖະໜນຟາງມ, ບານສຖານເໜອT: 021 243795W: www.thespirithouselaos.com

Pimms Julep ຂອງຮານ Spirit House

THE SPIRIT HOUSE’S

PIMMS JULEPResembling a life-size version of its namesake, The Spirit House has forged a reputation as the riverside go-to for a quality drop in Vientiane. This bar-cum-restaurant boasts what just might be most extensive menu of original cocktails in the city – and quite possibly the country. Head bartender Jai has honed his craft behind the bar for the past seven years, receiving training from an experienced New Zealand-based mixologist, and leads his team in creating inventive takes on classics like the East & Tonic – Gordon’s London dry infused with Japanese green tea and Lao honey, fresh lime and tonic water, and the Castro’s Mojito – a truly Lao spin on the Cuban Classic topped with icy Beerlao. Of course, you’ll also find old favourites like Negroni, Daiquiri and Caipirinha, but with names like Zen Master and Mekong High Tea on the menu, it can be difficult not to satiate your curiosity.

| The Spirit House's Pimms Julep. |

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The menu is divided by taste preferences and there is an emphasis on incorporating fresh fruits and only top shelf liqueurs; Sweet & Sour like the Caipirinha or Japanese Choya – sake and cherry liqueur, Long Drinks like the potent classic Long Island Ice Tea or Lychee Collins, Sweet & Strong – the Paris Never Die with vodka, blue curacao and fresh passion fruit is a standout, as is the Watermelon Martini which blends fresh watermelon with vodka for a clean and crisp drink.

The Sweet & Fruity selection features the bar’s signature cocktail – the Passion Mango Collins, a concoction crafted from muddling fresh passion fruit pulp, fresh mango, orange juice and vodka. Served tropical island-style with a wedge of pineapple, this is a refreshing summer indulgence.

Happy Hour: Daily 7pm-8pm, 50% off cocktailsO: Daily 7pm-MidnightA: Thadeua Road, Beung KhanyongT: 020 2929 5550

ນເປນການອອກໄປຫນທສມບນແບບ ເພອຄວາມມວນຊນກບເຄອງດມຄອກເທວໃນຍາມຄາຄນ ຄທານຈະເຫນຈາກລາຍ

ການອາຫານ ມຫາຍຢາງໃຫທານເລອກ ແລະ ຫາຍໄປກວາທທານຈະຕນໃຈ ຍອນການສາງສນເຄອງດມຄອກເທວແບບດງເດມຂອງເຈາຂອງຮານ ແລະ ຫວໜາບາເທນເດ Tony ລາວເຮດວຽກດງກາວມາໄດ 7 ປ ໃນນະຄອນຫວງປາຣສ ກອນຈະຍາຍມາຢໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ ດວຍເຫດນຊຂອງຮານ ແມນ Paris Cocktail ທານໂທນ ໄດກາວວາ ລກຄາມຫາກຫາຍກມເປາໝາຍ ທຈງຮກພກດ (ຝາຂອງຮບພາລາລອຍສາມາດ ພສດເລອງນໄດ) ແລະ ລກຄາໃໝໆ ຊງຂອຍຕອງການສາງບນຍາກາດທຜອນຄາຍ ດວຍໂຊຟາແສນສະບາຍ ຊຊາຫາຍລດຊາດ

ລາຍການເຄອງດມ ແມນແບງອອກຕາມລດຊາດ ແລະ ເນນໃສສະເພາະໝາກໄມສດ ແລະ ໃສເທງແກວຂອງເຫາໝາກໄມສດ ເຫາ Caipirinha ເຫາຍປນ Choya ເຫາສາເກ ເຫາເຊຣ ທານທມກຜອນຄາຍຍາວໆ ຕອງຊມ Long Island ຫ Lychee Collins ຫ Paris Never Die ວອດກາ ແລະ ໝາກໄມສດຈາກສວນ ຫ Watermelon Martini ວອດກາ ປະສມກບໝາກໂມສດ ເປນເຄອງດມທສດຊນ ແລະ ມຊວດຊວາ

Passion Mango Collins ເປນເຄອງດມຄອກເທວສນຍະລກຂອງຮານ ເປນເຄອງດມທປະສມ ແລະຄດເລອກໄດລງຕວທສດ ທບຄວນລມ

ເປດບລການ: ທກໆມ 19.00 – 20.00 ໂມງ, ຫດ 50% ຂອງລາຄາເຄອງດມຄອກເທວA: ຖະໜນທາເດອ, ບງຂະຫຍອງT: 020 2929 5550W: www.facebook.com/pariscocktailvientiane

Passion Mango Collins ຂອງຮານ Paris Cocktail

PARIS COCKTAIL’S PASSION MANGO COLLINSThis is the perfect hangout to enjoy a late-night cocktail. As you’ll note from the weighty menu, there is a lot to choose from, and more often than not you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the original creations of owner and head bartender Tony. A skilled mixologist, Tony worked as a bartender for seven years in Paris before relocating to Vientiane – hence the name of his first solo venture, Paris Cocktail. He says the clientele is a mix of loyal regulars (the wall of fun Polaroid photos can attest to this) and newcomers, and he wanted to create a relaxed and homey atmosphere at the bar. With comfy couches and an extensive collection of shisha pipes and flavours, there’s certainly lots to linger for here.

| Paris Cocktail's Passion Mango Collins. |

| Paris Cocktail owner and head bartender Tony. |

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Blink and you’ll miss it! Suite21 is a hidden gem housed in an unassuming row of shops. Its location is a little further out of town, giving this effortlessly cool lounge a ‘just stumbled upon’ appeal. The stylish interior befits a hip city nightspot, but a refreshing laidback atmosphere gives Suite21 a welcoming vibe, and colourful lighting, pop-art, and menu additions like jelly shots and fishbowl cocktails, show this place knows how to have a good time.

Co-owner Malie says she and partners Bob and Antony started Suite21 to fill a gap they saw in after-dark activities which often revolve around beer gardens or night clubs. Now the lounge attracts a mixed crowd of locals and international expats, who flock there nightly for their extensive cocktail menu, great selection of imported beers (including the ever-elusive Corona), and to puff on a multitude of shisha flavours.

The cocktail menu includes flirty favourites like Cosmopolitan and Watermelon Pink (watermelon-infused vodka with grenadine and apple juice), classic brews like the Cuba Libre and Amaretto Sour, along with a range of martini variations like dirty, dry, and the French Martini with gin, blackberry liquor and pineapple juice. The standout is the mojito selection which includes Lychee Mojito and a passion fruit variation. Our pick is the Classic Mojito, which combines rum, lime juice, brown sugar, and perfectly pressed mint leaves over crushed ice, topped with soda water (or lemonade if you’re after something sweet), and served in an oh-so-cool mason jar. And in case you have friends joining you, any cocktail can be made into a tower that produces around 80 shots – a guaranteed party starter.

Happy Hour: 10% off cocktails on the 21st of each monthO: Tuesday to Sunday 8pm-MidnightA: Ban Phonesavang (between Star Pub and Sai Jai Restaurant)T: 020 7813 1388W: www.facebook.com/Suite21Vientiane

ຮານ Suite21’s ແມນຮານເຮອນທເຊອງຕວໃນເຂດຮານຂາຍເຄອງຢໃນຕວເມອງໜອຍໜງພາຍໃນຕກແຕງທນສະໄໝແສງສສດໃນແບບ Pop Art ແລະ ເພມລາຍການເຄອງດມຄອກເທວແບບ Jelly Shots ແລະ Fishbowl Cocktails ສະແດງໃຫເຫນວາສະຖານທນ ຮວທສາງຄວາມສກ

ທານນາງ Malie ເຈາຂອງຮານຮວມ ໄດກາວວາ: ຂອຍ ແລະ ຫນສວນຂອງຂອຍ Bob ແລະ Antony ໄດເລມສາງຮານ Suite21’s ເພອຕມຊອງວາງ ທພວກຂອຍເຫນໃນກດຈະກາຍາມຄາຄນ ຊງວວດທະນາການມາຈາກ ສວນເບຍ ແລະ ຮານບນເທງໃນຍາມຄາຄນ ຮານ Suite21’s ໄດດງດດນກທອງທຽວ ທງພາຍໃນ ແລະຕາງປະເທດເຂາມາຍຽມຍາມໃນຍາມຄາຄນ ດວຍລາຍການເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ການຄດເລອກເບຍນາເຂາ ແລະ ປະສມກບຄວາມຫາກຫາຍຂອງ Shisha

ຄອກເທວທລກຄາມກ ແມນ Cosmopolitan ແລະ Watermelon Pink (Vodka ປະສມກບກບໝາກໂມ ພອມດວຍ Grenadine ແລະ ນ�ໝາກແອບເປນ) ເຫາຄາດຊກ ຄ Cuba Libre ແລະ Amaretto Sour ພອມດວຍ Martini ຫາກຫາຍແບບ ທງແບບແຫງ ມາຕນຝຣງ ຈນ ແລະ ນ�ໝາກນດ

ຄອກເທວທລກຄາສວນໃຫຍນຍມດມ ແມນ Mojito ເຊງລວມມ Lychee Mojito ແລະ Passion Fruit Mojito ພວກເຮາເລອກ Classic Mojito ຊງມ ລມ ນ�ໝາກນາວ ນ�ຕານ ແລະ ໃບມນ ຜານນ�ກອນບດ ໂຮຍດວຍນ�ໂຊດາ ຫ ນ�ໝາກນາວ ທາງຮານມເຄອງດມຄອກເທວແບບຫຄອຍສງ ໃນກລະນມາຫາຍທານ ຊງສາມາດດມໄດປະມານ 80 ຊອດ ເປນເຄອງດມເລມຕນສາລບງານລຽງພບປະສງສນກນ.

ເປດບລການ: ອງຄານ ຫາ ອາທດ 20.00 – 24.00 ໂມງ ຫດ 10% ຂອງເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ໃນທກໆວນທ 21 ຂອງແຕລະເດອນ A: ບານໂພນສະຫວາງ T: 020 78131388W: www.facebook.com/Suite21Vientiane

Suite21’s Classic Mojito

SUITE21’S CLASSIC MOJITO

| Suite21's Classic Mojito. |

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When visiting Sticky Fingers, you can’t miss sampling their star cocktail – the refreshingly piquant Tom Yum Martini. The story goes that this drink made its first appearance in Vientiane at a fundraiser night at Sticky’s, where the bar invited long-time locals with bar experience to pop behind the bar to create an original cocktail, of which a portion of the sales went to a charity project. A Danish expat created the Tom Yum Martini and it was an instant hit – quickly becoming the bar’s signature drink.

Sticky’s owner Sophie says the secret to the perfect Tom Yum Martini is in the tom yum syrup that’s brewed in-house on a weekly basis. While

she wouldn’t reveal the recipe, we did learn the concoction includes eight different Asian herbs, the standout ingredient being ginger.

The tangy syrup is combined with vodka, a dash of lime juice and shaken over ice, and topped with a whole chilli garnish. One sip of this flavour-packed brew and you’ll be tempted to upgrade to a jug in no time!

Happy Hour: Wednesday & Friday 6pm-8pm, 50% off all cocktails and jugs

O: Monday to Friday 5pm-11pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am-11pm A: 1/3 Rue Francois Nginn, Ban Mixay

T: 021 215 972W: www.facebook.com/StickyFingersLaos

ຮານ Sticky Fingers ເປນຮານທມບນຍາກາດສະບາຍໆ ພອມທງພະນກງານທເນນ ການໃຫການບລການເປນເລດ ແລະ ໜາເພງພໃຈ ມວນຊນຊງລາຍການເຄອງດມໝາກໄມ (ເຄອງດມຄອກເທວທງໝດ ສາມາດຂະຫຍາຍໃຫໄດໃຫຍທສດ ເຂາໃນໂຖ ເພອແບງປນຄວາມສກກບບນດາໝເພອນ) ບນຍາກາດແບບ Pub ມ Fish & Chip, BBQ

ເມອເຂາມາຢຽມຊມຮານ Sticky Fingers ທານບຄວນພາດເຄອງດມຄອກເທວທດທສດ ລດຊາດຈດຈານ ຕມຍາມາຕນ ເລອງມຢວາ ເຄອງດມນ ແມນປະກດຕວເປນຄງທາອດໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ ຢທຄາຄນງານລຽງ Fundraiser ທຮານ Sticky Fingers ໂດຍຊາວເດນມາກ ໄດປະດດຕມຍາມະຕນ ແລວກເປນທນຍມທນທ ກາຍມາເປນເຄອງດມທເປນເຄອງໝາຍ ຂອງຮານບາຢາງໄວວາ.

ເຈາຂອງຮານ Sticky Fingers ທານ ນາງ Sofie ໄດກາວວາ: ຄວາມລບໃນການເຮດຕມຍາ ມາຕນທສດຍອດ ແມນມາຈາກນ�ຕມຍາທໄດຮບການຕມກນໃນຫອງກນຕອງເປນ ປະຈາທກອາທດ, ແຕຂອຍບເປດເຜຍສດທງໝດ ຕມຍາລວມເອາສະໝນໄພເອເຊຍທງ 8 ປະເພດຕາງກນ Tangy Syrup ກບວອດກາ ປະສມກບນ�ໝາກນາວປນໃສນ�ກອນ ຕມໝາກເຜດການສ ໂຮຍໃສເທງຈບໜງຂອງການຊມລດຊາດນ ແລະ ຈະເຮດໃຫ ຍກລະດບເປນໂຖ ໃນເວລາບຊາ.

ເປດບລການ: ຈນ ຫາ ສກ 17.00 – 23.00 ໂມງ, ສວນ ເສາ ແລະ ອາທດ 10.00 – 23.00 ໂມງ ທກວນພດ ແລະ ສກ 18.00 – 20.00 ໂມງ, ຫດ 50% ຂອງລາຄາເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ແລະ ໂຖA: 1/3 Rue Francois Nginn, ບານມໄຊT: 021 215 972W: www.facebook.com/StickyFingersLaos

ຕມຍ�ມະຕນ ຂອງຮານ Sticky Fingers

STICKY FINGERS’ TOM YUM MARTINISticky’s, as it’s more affectionately known, is a Vientiane institution drawing the masses to their legendary Happy Hour on Wednesday and Friday nights. The bar exudes an inviting and laidback atmosphere enhanced by the friendly staff who aim to please with great service, a fun and fruity drinks list (all cocktails can be super-sized into jugs to share with larger parties), and pub-style comfort food like fish and chips and sticky BBQ ribs. Perch on the patio for excellent downtown people watching, or hang in the colourful ground floor bar area – Aussie sports fans will appreciate the upper-level sports bar showing Australian Rules football on a big screen on the weekends.

| Sticky Fingers' Tom Yum Martini. |

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Escape busy Setthathirat Road and duck into Jazzy Brick, a purveyor of top cocktails in a row of cool refurbished shop houses. Exposed brickwork, vintage décor, and dim lighting make this the perfect hideaway, and the bottle-clad walls behind the ground and upper level bars attest to the extensive drinks list. There’s a few chairs in the tiny front courtyard, but you’ll find most of the regulars on the perfectly worn lounges in the loft-style upper level. For a more intimate nightcap there’s a cosy space in the far reaches of the ground floor.

The cocktail list is thoughtfully divided into liquor-based categories, and here you’ll find old classics like the Manhattan, Gimlet and Tom Collins, which hark back to the old record players, radios and other 1950s oddities adorning the space. While the experienced bar staff, led by head bartender Na, are adept at the extensive menu, they are always willing to experiment and create something original and inventive to appease even the most discerning palate. Simply put, these guys know how to make an excellent drink.

A prime example of this is a range of seasonal ‘off menu’ cocktails – the most popular with those in the know being the Volcano. A fruity and slightly tart blend of vodka, Cointreau, Frangelico, freshly squeezed lime juice and blended fresh mango, topped with a dash of grenadine. Made entirely from scratch, and invented by Na, it’s an experience in itself seeing the Volcano being crafted, from the pre-chilling of the glass, to the scooping of the juicy mango flesh. And like any good summertime cocktail, it’s garnished with a gleaming maraschino cherry.

Sister venue popular Lao restaurant Amphone is tucked down an adjacent laneway, so order a few plates of Lao snacks to be delivered to Jazzy Brick, and settle in for the evening.

Happy Hour: Daily 6pm-8pm, 50% off all cocktails O: Daily 6pm-Midnight A: 34/1 Setthathirat Road, Ban Xieng Gneun T: 021 212 489W: www.facebook.com/jazzybricklao

JAZZY BRICK’S VOLCANO

ຮານ Jazzy Brick ຢຖະໜນເຊດຖາທລາດ ຕກແຕງສະໄຕລວນເທດ ແລະ ແສງໄຟນອຍໆ ເຮດໃຫເປນ ສະຖານທພກຜອນແບບສດຍອດ ແລະ ຝາທສາງດວຍຂວດແກວຢດານຫງພນ ແລະ ລາຍການເຄອງດມທຕດກບຝາຢດານເທງ ມຕງອ 2-3 ໜວຍໃນພນທດານໜານອຍໆ ມຫອງພກຜອນໃນແບບຫຫາລອບສະໄຕລ ສາລບການດມເຫາ ກອນເຂານອນແບບສວນຕວ ແມນມພນທກວາງ ແລະ ຫາງຈາກຊນລມ.

ລາຍການເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ແບງຕາມປະເພດຂອງເຫາ ແລະ ທນທານຈະພບແບບພນບານເກາແກ ຄ Manhattan, Gimlet ແລະ Tom Collins ຊງຫວນກບຄນມາເສບເພງປ 1950ຈາກເຄອງເລນແຜນສຽງແບບ ເກາ ຕກແຕງສະຖານທແບບເກາແກ ພະນກງານເສບໃນບາທມປະສບການ ນາໂດຍຫວໜາບາເທນເດ ທານ ນາ ທມກໃນການທດລອງເລອຍໆ ແລະ ປະດດເຄອງດມ ແບບດງເດມ ຫ ປະດດສງໃໝໆ ເພອສາງຄວາມ ປະທບໃຈທສດຂອງລດຊາດທມຄນນະພາບ ພວກເຂາເຫານຮວາສງໃດ ທຈະເຮດເຄອງດມທດທສດ

ເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ທນຍມກນທສດແມນ Volcano ປະສມປະສານລະຫວາ Vodka, Cointreau, Frangelico, ນ�ໝາກນາວຄນສດ ໝາກມວງສດໆ ແລະ ນ� Grenadine ຕກແຕງດວຍໝາກ Maraschino Cherry ເປນເຄອງດມທເຫມາະໃນລະດຮອນ

ຮານທຢໃນຖະໜນແຄບໆ ຢຕດກນ ແມນຮານນອງສາວ ຮານອາຫານອາພອນ ສະນນ ສງອາຫານລາວ ເພອກບແກມ 2-3 ຈານ ເສບສງໂດຍກງຫາຮານ Jazzy Brick

ເປດບລການ: ທກໆມ 18.00 – 20.00 ໂມງ, ຫດ 50% ສາລບເຄອງດມຄອກເທວທງໝດ A: 34/1 ຖະໜນເຊດຖາທລາດ ບານຊຽງຍນ T: 021 212489W: www.facebook.com/jazzybricklao

Jazzy Brick’s Volcano

| Jazzy Brick's Volcano. |

| Jazzy Brick head bartender, Na. |

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Echoing the cuisine’s mod-Lao flair, the daiquiri range features the ultra-tropical Mango and Lime, and a kicky Pineapple and Chilli, but the real star is the Frozen Hibiscus and Lime Daiquiri; a drink that has become synonymous with any meal at Makphet. Chef Phaisy says the cocktail is the most popular item on the menu, and over the years it has become quite famous in Vientiane. It’s easy to see how this ruby red concoction caught on quickly, with the delicate roselle hibiscus and lime syrup – made in-house – offsetting the punchy rum and lime juice.

To recreate any of Makphet’s cocktails or menu items at home, the recipe book ‘From Honeybees to Pepperwood’ is available to purchase from Makphet and the Friends N’ Stuff store (Rue Nokeokoummane) in downtown Vientiane.

Happy Hour: Daily 5pm-7pm, 50% off all cocktails and glasses of wineO: Daily 11am-10.30pmA: 78 Ban Inpeng Vat Chanh Tha T: 021 260 587W: www.makphet-restaurant.org

ແນນອນ ມນເປນຫາຍກວາອາຫານໃນບາທວໄປ ຖາທານກາລງຄນຫາບາງຢາງທເຢນໆ ແລະ ໝາກໄມ ທານບ ສາມາດເບງຜານການຄດເລອກ daiquiri ຂອງຮານ Makphet. ອງກອນຮານອາຫານທາງສງຄມ ທພວມເຮດວຽກ ເພອປຽນແປງຊວດ ແລະ ດາເນນການໂດຍເພອນມດ ສາງຕງໂດຍອງກອນ ເພອນມດສາກນ ເພອໃຫການອບຮມ ກຽວກບການຕອນຮບທດ ໃຫແກຊາວໜມທດອຍໂອກາດໃນ ປະເທດລາວ. ສະນນ ທານຈະບຮສກຜດຫວງ ໃນ ການແວນງສາລບເຄອງດມປະສມຄອກເທວ, ຫອງຄວແມນການປະສມປະສານຄວາມນຍມດງເດມຂອງລາວ ປະສມປະສານກບເຕກນກທນສະໄໝ ແລະ ມອາຫານພເສດແຕລະມ ເຮດໃຫທມງານ ໄດທດລອງກບສດອາຫານ ທປະດດຂນໃໝ.

ກາວເຖງລາຍການອາຫານຫາຍປະເພດ daiquiri ໄດມຈດເດນທໝາກມວງ ແລະ ໝາກນາວເຂດຮອນ ໝາກນດ ແລະ ໝາກເຜດ, ແຕສດຍອດລາຍການເຄອງດມຕວຈງ ແມນແຊກະຈຽບເຢນ ແລະ ໝາກນາວ Daiquiri; ເຄອງດມທໄດກາຍເປນສງທທານຕອງລອງກບການກນອາຫານໃນຄາບໜງ ທຮານໝາກເຜດ ພຄວ ໄພສ ໄດກາວວາ: ເຄອງດມປະສມຄອກເທວ ແມນເຄອງດມທຍອດນຍມໃນລາຍການອາຫານ ແລະ ເປນເວລາຫາຍປ ໄດເປນຍອດນຍມໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ ງາຍ ແລະ ໄວ ໃນການປະສມເຄອງດມປະສມສແດງນນ ກບໝາກສມພດ ແລະ ໝາກນາວເຊອມ ເຮດເອງຢໃນເຮອນ ເຮດເປນເຫານ�ໝາກນາວ ແລະ ລາພນຈ.

ເພອເຮດເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ຫລາຍການອາຫານ ຢໃນເຮອນ, ປມສດອາຫານ “ນ�ເຜງ ສເປບເປວດ” ຈະມຂາຍໃນຮານໝາກເຜດ ແລະ ຮານຄາເພອນມດເອນ (Rue Nokeokoummane) ໃນຕວເມອງວຽງຈນ.

ເປດບລການ: ທກມ 17.00 – 19.00 ໂມງ, ຫດ 50% ຂອງລາຄາເຄອງດມຄອກເທວ ແລະ ເຫາວາຍ. A: 78 ວດອງຕT: 021 260587W: www.makphet-restaurant.org

Frozen Hibiscus and Lime Daiquiri ຂອງຮານ Makphet

MAKPHET’S FROZEN HIBISCUS AND LIME DAIQUIRIWhile definitely more of a restaurant than a bar, if you’re in search of a thirst quencher that’s frozen and fruity, you can’t look past Makphet’s daiquiri selection. The restaurant-cum-social enterprise is working to change lives and is run by Peuan Mit, founded by Friends-International, to provide training in hospitality to disadvantaged youth in Laos. So you won’t feel too guilty settling in for a second (or third) cocktail. The kitchen creates a medley of traditional Lao flavours executed with modern and inspired techniques, and an ever-rotating daily specials menu allows the team to experiment with bold and inventive recipes.

| Makphet's Frozen Hibiscus and Lime Daiquiri. |

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Page 39: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

The Good Guide Sabaidee’s Guide to the best eats, drinks, stays,

retail, luxuries and experiences in the nation’s urban centres.

This month we satisfy our sweet tooth with some of the capital’s finest dessert offerings, dine on some Nippon fare at T.O Sushi, and

enjoy a quiet cup of Joe at The Little House – along with scouring the country to bring you

the best of the best in our EAT, DRINK, SLEEP, RELAX, SHOP and SEE & DO listings.

ການແນະນາ ຂອງວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ກຽວກບສະຖານທ ກນ ດມ ພກເຊາ ຈບຈາຍຊເຄອງ

ສະຖານທຫຫາ ແລະ ປະສບການທດທສດ ໃນເຂດບນດາສນກາງຕວເມອງຂອງລາວ.

ເດອນນພວກເຮາຈະເຮດໃຫແຂວທຫວານຂອງທານໄດມຄວາມສກໄປກບອາຫານຫວານທດທສດ ຂອງເມອງ. ຮບປະທານອາຫານຄາທຮານອາຫານ

ຍປນ T.OSushiແລະ ມຄວາມສກກບການດມກາເຟໃນບນຍາກາດທງຽບສະຫງບ ທຮານ The Little House

ພອມກບການຊອກຄນຫາພາຍໃນປະເທດ ເພອສະແຫວງຫາ ສງທດທສດ ຂອງທສດໃນເລອງ ການກນ ດມ ຫບນອນ

ພກຜອນ ຈບຈາຍຊເຄອງ ແລະ ລາຍການເບງ ແລະ ເຮດຕາງໆ.

I Sputnik Burger. Photo Shayling Ngo. I39

Page 40: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

Sweet Tooth: VIENTIANE’S BEST AFTER-DINNER TREATS

SABAIDEE'S GUIDE TOwords & photos Hannah McDonald-Moniz

L O O K I N G F O R A P L A C E T O SATISFY A LATE-NIGHT SUGAR C R A V I N G I N T H E C A P I T A L ? SABAIDEE MAGAZINE DISHES OUT THE DETAILS ON THE MOST DELECTABLE DESSERTS AT SOME OF VIENTIANE’S TOP EATERIES, WHERE YOU CAN INDULGE IN A SWEET TREAT AFTER DARK.

ອາຫານຫວານ: ການເລອກສນອາຫານຫວານທດທສດຫງຄາບເຂາຕອນຄາ ໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ

ທານກາລງຊອກຫາສະຖານທ ທຈະມຄວາມສກ ກບລາຍການອາຫານຫວານ ໃນຕອນເດກບ? ວາລະສານ “ສະບາຍດ” ໄດສນຫາອາຫານຫວານ ທແຊບທສດ

ໃນບນດາຮານອາຫານ ຢເມອງວຽງຈນ, ບອນທທານສາມາດມຄວາມສກກບອາຫານຫວານ ໃນຕອນເດກ.

L’ADRESSE DE TINAY’S CRÈME BRÛLÉE

This elegant French eatery is tucked down a side street downtown, and its unassuming patio opens onto a beautiful high-ceilinged salon within. After enjoying the refined French flavours of their always inventive mains, dessert is a must, with the classic crème brûlée taking the cake, so to speak. This dessert is understated and sophisticated, not overdoing the sweetness so the subtle creamy flavours prevail. Crack into the crisp caramelised goodness of the crunchy crust and enjoy the flavours of France.

T: 020 5691 3434

A: OPPOSITE WAT ONGTEU, BAN WATCHAN

W: WWW.LADRESSEDETINAY.COM

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY 11.30AM-2PM,

6.30PM-10PM, SATURDAY 6.30AM-10PM.

PIMENTON’S WARM MILK CHOCOLATE CROISSANT PUDDING WITH WHISKY SAUCE

Nothing on Pimenton’s menu seems to disappoint, and that is equally true of their sweet selection. Vientiane’s premier Spanish restaurant, this popular tapas spot serves up mouth-watering desserts. The warm milk chocolate croissant pudding breathes new life to an old classic, with delicate chunks of croissant dressed with indulgent melted milk chocolate. A drizzle of the tangy whisky sauce gives this delicious dish just the perfect amount of bite. Other favourites on the dessert menu include the Spanish classic, arroz con leche, and Pimenton’s own twist on the crème brûlée made with chocolate.

T: 021 215 506

A: RUE NOKEOUKOUMANE, BAN MIXAY

W: WWW.PIMENTONRESTAURANT-VTE.COM

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY 11AM-11PM.

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Page 41: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

L’Adresse de Tinay’s Crème Brûlée

ພ າ ຍ ຫງ ທທາ ນ ໄ ດມ ຄ ວ າ ມ ສກກບອາຫານຝຣງທດເລດ ໃນລາຍການຕນຕ ຂອງ ພຄວ Tinay, ລາຍການ ອາຫານ ຫວ າ ນ ທ L ’ A d r e s s e ແມນສງທຂາດບໄດ ພອມດວຍ crème brûléetaking the c a k e . ອ າ ຫ າ ນ ຫວ າ ນ ນ ແ ມນ ມ ຄ ວ າ ມ ຊບ ຊອ ນ , ບຫວານເກນໄປ ເພາະເພມ ລດຊາດຄຣມ ທລະອຽດອອນ, ເພດເພນໄປກບເຂາໜມກອບ ແລະ ລດຊາດແບບຝຣງ.

ໂທ: 020 56913434 ທຢ: ກງກນຂາມກບວດອງຕ, ບານວດຈນ ເວບໄຊ: www.ladressedetinay.com, ເປດ ວນຈນ ຫາ ວນສກ, ເວລາ 11.30 – 14.00 ໂມງ ແລະ 18.30 – 22.00 ໂມງ ສວນວນເສາ ເປດເວລາ 06.30 – 22.00 ໂມງ.

ຄອດຊອງ ຊອກໂກແລດ ນມອນເພມຄວາມຫວານ ດວຍຊອດວສກ (Warm M i l k C h o c o l a t e Croissant Pudding with Whisky Sauce) ຂອງຮານ Pimenton

ບມລາຍການອາຫານໃດ ທຮານ Pimenton ທຈະເຮດໃຫ ຜດຫວງ ແ ລ ະ ກ ຄ ກນ ກບ ລ າ ຍ ກ າ ນ ອາຫານຫວານ ຂອງພວກເຂາ. ຄອດຊອງຊອກໂກແລກນມ ອນ ແມນການປະສມປະສານຢາງລງຕວ ຂອງຄອດຊອງ ກບນມຊອກໂກແລດ ອນ,ການຕມດວຍຊອດວດສະກ ແທງກ ເຮດໃຫອາຫານຫວານຈານນ ມຄວາມພເສດທຕອງໄດລອງຊມ.

ໂທ: 021 215506 ທຢ: ຖະໜນນກແກວກມມານ, ບານມໄຊ, ເວບໄຊ: www.pimentonrestaurant-vte.com ເປດ ວນຈນ ຫາ ວນເສາ ເວລາ 11.00 – 23.00 ໂມງ.

ເຂາໜຽວໝາກມວງ ຂອງ ຮານອາຫານ Lao Kitchen

ເຂາໜຽວໝາກມວງ ອາດແມນອາ ຫ າ ນ ຫວ າ ນ ດງ ເ ດ ມ ຂ ອ ງ ລ າ ວ ແລະ ໄທ, ແຕຈະຫາ ບອນທເຮດ ໄ ດລດ ຊ າ ດ ແ ຊ ບ ລງ ຕວ ແ ມນ ຫາຍາກ. ໃນເມອງວຽງຈນ, ທຮານ ອາຫານ Lao Kitchen ແມນໄດ ມາດຕະຖານ ພອມດວຍໝາກມວງ ປາດເຄງ ທໃຫຍ ແລະ ສກ ດ ມາພອມກບເຂາໜຽວໜງ ທຫວານ ອນ ປະສມກບກະທ ໝາກພາວ ແລະ ນາຕານ.

ໂທ: 021 254332 ທຢ ຖະໜນແຫງບນ, ບານອານ ເວບໄຊ: www.lao-kitchen.com ເປດທກວນ ແຕເວລາ 11.00 – 22.00 ໂມງ.

Bistro 22’s Chocolate Fondant

ບມ ກ າ ນ ຮບ ປ ະ ທ າ ນ ອ າ ຫ າ ນ ເຍອງໃດ ທຮານ Bistro 22 ຈະສມບນ ໂດຍປດສະຈາກການ ລງທາຍດວຍລາຍການອາຫານ ທຊນເລດ ຂອງພຄວ Philippe ຊອກໂກແລດ ໂຟນເດນ (choco - late fondant). ຢາງໃດກຕາມ, ຂ ະ ໜມ ເ ຄ ນ ນ ແ ມນ ໄ ດຮບ ການປງແຕງໃຫມຄວາມພເສດ ຊງ ສວນເທງມຄວາມກອບໃນ ຂະນະທ ດານໃນແມນ ປະກອບມ ຊອກໂກແລດແຫວ, ຕດຕາມມາ ດວຍກະແລມຄາລາເມລ ຈະເຮດ ໃຫທານມປະສບການອາຫານານ ທພເສດ.

ໂທ: 021 214129 ທຢ: ຖ ະ ໜນ ສ າ ມ ແ ສ ນ ໄ ທ , ບານເກາຍອດ, ເປດ ວນຈນ ຫາ ວນສກ ເວລາ 11.00 – 22.00 ໂມງ ສວນວນເສາ ເວລາ 18.00 - 22.30 ໂມງ.

Ai Capone’s Panna Cotta

ຫງຈາກອມກບອາຫານອຕາລ, ຕມປະສບການອາຫານແລງຂອງທານດວຍ velvety panna cot ta . ລາຍການອາຫານ pristine morsel ແມນທງເບາ ແລະ ສມບນ ຊງກ ຄກນກບ ລາຍການອາຫານເຍອງອນໆ ຂ ອ ງ ຮາ ນ A i C a p o n e ມ ກ າ ນ ນາສ ະ ເ ໜ ທພ ເ ສ ດ ພອມດວຍແລກເບລ ຊງເຂາ ກນຢາງລງຕວ.

ໂທ: 020 59910888 ທຢ ຖະໜນ Francois Ngin, ບານມໄຊເວບໄຊ: www.facebook.com/Aicaponelaospdr ເປດ ທກວນ ເວລາ 11.30 - 22.30 ໂມງ.

LAO KITCHEN’S MANGO AND STICKY RICE

Lao Kitchen is a favourite among expats and tourists looking to get their fill of tasty Lao classics, and their reliable renditions of traditional comfort food extend to their dessert menu as well. Mango and sticky rice may be the quintessential Thai-Lao dessert, but finding a good variation is a surprisingly difficult task in Vientiane. Lao Kitchen’s take meets the standard, with a perfectly ripe, generous half mango, accompanied by a bowl of delightfully warm sweetened sticky rice oozing with sweet and salty coconut milk.

T: 021 254 332

A: RUE HENGBOUN, BAN ANOU

W: WWW.LAO-KITCHEN.COM

OPEN DAILY 11AM-10PM

BISTRO 22’S CHOCOLATE FONDANT

The cosy interior of this French hideaway lends itself to intimate dinners over wine, meat, and cheese. No meal here would be complete without well-known chef Philippe’s classic dessert – the chocolate fondant. Somehow this fudgy medallion is cooked to a perfection that allows the top to be crunchy and crumbly, while the inside oozes with molten chocolate. The accompanying dollops of caramel and ice cream provide a perfectly contrasting dynamic of sweet and savoury to delight the palate.

T: 021 21 41 29

A: RUE SAMSENTHAI, BAN KHAONYOT

OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY 11AM-10PM,

SATURDAY 6PM-10.30PM.

AI CAPONE’S PANNA COTTA

Ai Capone is Vientiane’s latest Italian hotspot, and the tiny eatery is packed to the brim on most evenings with diners eager to sample the authentic, homemade Italian flavours on offer. After filling up with hearty Italian fare, you may think you can eat no more, but there’s always room for one of their sumptuous desserts, and the velvety panna cotta is perfection. This pristine morsel of cream is somehow both weightless and rich and, like all dishes at Ai Capone, the presentation is inimitable, with tangy dollops of raspberry coulis to complement the creaminess.

T: 020 5991 0888

A: RUE FRANCOIS NGIN, BAN MIXAY

W: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/AICAPONELA-

OSPDR

OPEN DAILY 11.30AM-10.30PM.

| L’Adresse de Tinay’s Crème Brûlée | 41

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VIENTIANE

• RAY’S GRILLE – American/Mexican. It’s all about comfort food at Ray’s – home style burgers, legendary Philly cheese steak sandwiches and tasty quesadillas – all fresh and made to order in this homely joint. While the real drawcard is the colossal cheeseburger (best handled with two hands) mention must also go to the felafel burger which is sure to satisfy vegetarians. A selection of local and imported beers are available including a few micro-brewed American craft beers – just the ticket to wash down this tasty diner fare. 17/1 Sihom Road, 020 5896 6866, facebook.com/raysgrilleLaopdr. Open Monday to Friday, Sunday 11am – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm.

• BAN GAI TEX MEX CANTINA – American/Mexican. A casual eatery which some say serves the best chicken in Vientiane. Once famed purely for their finger-licking buffalo hot wings, Ban Gai has recently expanded their menu to include a host of authentic Tex Mex classics including nachos, enchiladas and burritos heaped with fresh salsa, gooey cheese and accompanied by bowls of piping hot rice and beans. Pair anything from the menu with one of their delicious margaritas and you’re set. Family friendly, delivery. Sokpalaung Road, 020 9825 6654, facebook.com/BanGaiHouseOfChicken. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11am – 9pm.

EAT Listing

• LAO KITCHEN – Lao. A colourful eatery that specialises in authentic Lao dishes. Sisters Noi and Teng run the show while their family help out in the kitchen preparing soups, stews, grilled meats, stir-fry dishes and of course laap (the duck variation is a stand out). A great place for those new to Lao cuisine – the menu is full of helpful explanations for each dish and warns you if something may be a little too piquant for some palates. Rue Hengboun (opposite KP Hotel), 021 254 332, lao-kitchen.com. Open Monday to Sunday 11am – 10pm.

• SOUL KITCHEN – Italian This laid-back dinner hot spot is a little off the main drag but the pizzas and casual atmosphere – complete with rock and blues tunes – make it worth the trip. The menu includes tasty pasta dishes and salads but it’s the traditional wood fired pizzas that keeps Soul Kitchen’s loyal fans coming back for more. In keeping with the quotes from rock stars scrawled on the walls, the pies have fun names like ‘Rock n Roll’, ‘Purple Haze’ and ‘Voodoo Child’. Family friendly. Thadeua Road 143 (KM 0.5), 020 5612 0804, [email protected]. Open Tuesday to Sunday 5.30pm – 10.30pm.

• LA SIGNATURE – French/Fusion. Set in the stylish Ansara Hotel, this sophisticated restaurant perfectly marries French-Lao fusion with old-world charm. Choose between dining indoors in the high-ceilinged salon or al fresco on the elegant terrace. Sample salmon tartare with green apple millefeuille, Burgundy snails and three-flavoured lamb or let the chef guide you with daily specials including Lao-style petit fours. Desserts include a not-to-be-missed crème brulee trio. Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha, 021 213 514, ansarahotel.com. Open 7 days 6.30am – 10.00am, 11.30am – 2.30pm, 16.30pm – 9.30pm.

• MAKPHET – Lao. Makphet – Lao. This restaurant-cum-social enterprise is working to shape lives. Founded by Friends-International, Makphet provides training in hospitality to disadvantaged youth in Laos. If that wasn’t enough reason to dine here the kitchen creates an inspired take on Lao cuisine, blending traditional flavours with modern techniques. #78 Ban Inpeng, Vat Chanh Tha, 021 260 587, makphet-restaurant.org. Open Monday to Sunday 11am-10.30pm.

• KUNG’S CAFÉ LAO – Lao/Breakfast. Tucked down a residential laneway, this popular breakfast and lunch haunt is a hit with those in-the-know. The breakfast and lunch menu runs all day so try Lao-inspired sweets like sticky rice pancakes with mango or banana French toast and savoury dishes like meatballs in broth with a fresh crunchy baguette or the Pad Lao noodles with pork. On the main street, look for a small hand painted sign pointing the way. Off Rue Simeuang, Piawat Village, 021 219 101, facebook.com/KungsCafeLao. Open 7 days 6am – 3pm.

• VIENG SAWAN. Vietnamese. Look beyond the décor at this bustling eatery which serves up cheap and delicious Vietnamese dishes to hungry masses. Order a fresh or fried spring roll combination which comes with heaped plates of fresh lettuce, herbs and noodles designed to be eaten together. If you’re feeling lost check out how neighbouring diners are doing things and follow suit. Rue Hengboun (opposite Home Ideal), 021 213 990.

• ARIA MIXAI ITALIAN CULINARY ARTS – Italian. Aria presents high-end epicurean Italian cuisine in an elegant salon setting in downtown Vientiane. The kitchen produces traditional hearty Italian fare including antipasti, homemade pasta and wood fired pizza using the highest quality ingredients. Discerning diners will welcome the extensive wine list which boasts fine imports from Italy. Set lunches are extremely popular on weekdays. 8 Rue Francois Ngin, 021 222 589, ariaorg.com.

| Makphet. |

• YULALA CAFÉ & RESTAURANT – Japanese/Fusion. Pull up a chair or nestle into a floor cushion at this cute little joint which puts a Japanese spin on Western ingredients. While the daily specials are ever-changing popular mainstays include sautéed chicken with tofu, soy sauce and mirin and the potato croquettes with mince beef and a tomato-based sauce. Set meals come with salad, pickled vegetables, flavoursome broth and steamed purple rice. Seating is limited so it can pack out early on the weekends. Rue Hengboun, 020 5510 4050, facebook.com/pages/YuLaLa-cafe-restaurant/148520861845706. Open Tuesday to Sunday 11.30am – 2pm, 6pm – 9.30pm.

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Located along busy Thadeua Road, T.O Sushi can be easily missed with the blink of an eye. Tucked inside a two-level modern building, the restaurant is much

like a hidden Zen garden of treasures. The clean exterior is

decorated with lush green plants and upon entering the restaurant you are greeted with grand statues of gold, jade and timber.

The sushi bar is the focal point of the first floor and ensures you have a satisfying dining experience with the chef preparing fresh sashimi and sushi rolls right before your eyes. For group dining, the spacious upper floor offers roomier tables.

The extensive menu sees a mixture of unique sushi roll creations, crispy Tonkatsu, plump gyoza dumplings, and fresh salads bursting with flavour. The slogan ‘Eat it Raw!’ is showcased throughout the menu, along with a vast amount of salmon, tuna and scallop sashimi – all traditionally prepared with expert precision.

Once seated, attentive staff present you with moreish edamame beans to snack on while you peruse the menu. The flavoursome yet light Sashimi Salad is a standout with simple ingredients of mixed green leaves, cherry tomatoes and creamy avocado brought together by a tangy dressing and topped off with caviar and seaweed salad.

The Tempura Sushi Roll is a crispy delight with a sweet sauce to complement the palate. Enjoy your meal with a pot of hot green tea and you are instantly transported to a typical sushi bar found in Japan.

T.O SushiOpen Monday to Saturday, 11am-2.30pm and 5pm-10pm.A: Thadeua Road, Ban That Khao, Sisattanak District, Vientiane T: 020 5499 8899, 020 2888 8901, 030 5700 255

HIGHLIGHTEatwords & photos Shayling Ngo

ປະສບການເຂາແລງ ທມວນຊນ

43

A taste of Japanrolls into

Sisattanak district at T.O Sushi,

bringing flavoursome and satisfying fare

with it. ລອງຊມລດຊາດອາຫານຍປນ ໂດຍການມງ ໄປສເມອງສສດຕະນາກ ທຮານ ອາຫານ T.O Sushi ຊງໄດນາສະເໜຄວາມນຍມ ແລະ ລດຊາດອາຫານທດເລດ,

ຕງຢຖະໜນທາເດອ ທມຄນທຽວໄປ-ມາຫາຍ, ຮານ T.O Sushi ສາມາດເບງກາຍໄດຢາງງາຍດາຍ. ເມອທານຍາງ ເຂາໄປໃນອາຄານ 2 ຊນທທນສະໄໝ, ຮານອາຫານ ຊງ ເບງແລວຄສວນ ແຫງຊບສມບດ, ເຂດນອກທສະອາດ ແມນຖກຕກແຕງໄປດວຍ ຕນໄມສຂຽວງາມ ແລະ ເມອເຂາ ໄປໃນຮານ ທານຈະຖກຕອນຮບ ໂດຍຮບຈາລອງ ຄາ ຢກ ແລະ ໄມຂະໜາດໃຫຍ.

ເຂດ sushi bar ແມນຈດສມ ຂອງຊນທໜງ ແລະ ຮບປະກນວາ ທານຈະໄດມ ປະສບການ ອາຫານແລງ ທເພງພໃຈ ຊງມພຄວ ກຽມເຮດ ຊາຊມ ແລະ ຊຊ ສດໆ ຕໜາທານເອງ, ສາລບ ການນດໝາຍ ເພອຮບປະທານ ອາຫານແລງ ທເປນກມ ຢຊນສອງ ແມນເໝາະສມ ເພາະ ມໂຕະ ແລະ ຫອງທກວາງ.

ລາຍການອາຫານທຫາກຫາຍ ລວມມການປະສມ ການເຮດ ເຂາປນຊຊ ທເປນເອກະລກ, ກອບ, ຕມຊາ Tonkatsu (gyoza dumplings) ແລະ ສະຫດສດໆ ປະສມເປນນາ ສະຫດ. ຄາຂວນ “ກນດບ” ແມນມໃນ ທກລາຍການ ໄປພອມກບ ປາເຊວມອນ ປາທນາ ແລະ ຫອຍເຊວ ຊາຊມ ທຫາກຫາຍ ຊງລາຍການອາຫານທງໝດ ແມນໄດຮບການ ປງແຕງ ຢາງເອາໃຈໃສ ຈາກພຄວທມ ຄວາມຊານຊານານ.

ເມອທານໄດບອນນງແລວ, ພະນກງານ ຈະໃຫບລການ ທານດວຍຖວກອນ ໃນຂະນະທ ທານກາລງສາຫວດເບງ ລາຍການອາຫານ, ສະຫດ ຊາຊມ ຊງເປນທນຍມ ແລະ ເບາ ແມນມຄວາມໂດດເດນ ດວຍເຄອງປະສມທງາຍດາຍ ເປນຕນແມນ ຜກຂຽວ, ໝາກເຫນເຊຣ ແລະ ໝາກອາ ໂວຄາໂດ ທມນປະສມເຂາກນ ດວຍນາສະຫດ ແລະ ໂຮຍດວຍໄຂປາຄາເວຍ ແລະ ສາຣາຍທະເລ.

ເທມປລະ ຊຊ ແມນເຂາກນດກບ ຊອດຫວານ ຊງໃຫລດ ຊາດທແສນວເສດ ພອມມຄວາມສກກບການຮບປະທານ ອາຫານຂອງທານ ດວຍເຕານາຊາຂຽວຮອນ ແລະ ທານ ຈະຖກນາໄປສບນຍາກາດ ບາ ຊຊ ແບບດງເດມຂອງຍປນ.

A Fresh and Fishy Af fair

ຮານອາຫານ T.O Sushiເປດ ວນຈນ ຫາ ວນເສາ, ເວລາ 11.00 - 14.30 ໂມງ ແລະ 17.00 – 22.00 ໂມງ.ທຢ: ຖະໜນທາເດອ, ບານທາດຂາວ, ເມອງສສດ ຕະນາກ, ນະຄອນຫວງວຽງຈນໂທ: 020 54998899 020 28888901 030 5700255

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EAT Listing

• BENONI CAFÉ – Asian/Western/Café. Escape the bustle of downtown Vientiane at Benoni Café, a bright and airy café-cum-restaurant which serves up fresh and tasty Asian and Western fare. Choose from a wide range of baguettes, quiches, burgers and noodle and rice dishes – all prepared quickly and served with a smile. The Lao coffee is home roasted and the delicious cakes and sweets are all made in-house. WiFi, family friendly. Rue Setthathirath (above Phimphone), 021 213 334, facebook.com/benonicafe. Open Monday to Saturday 10am – 5pm.

• MASA SPOON CAFÉ N’ BISTRO– Asian/Western. A bright and cheerful restaurant, split over two levels Masa pairs minimalist furniture with feature walls of raw timber, cool wall art and vintage china. The menu runs from share-plates of Asian-spiced chicken wings and crunchy onion rings to dishes for one including signature dishes Masa Spoon burger, sticky BBQ spare ribs and tasty pastas. Sweet tooths will love the honey toast – perfect with a cup of tea. Rue Dongpalanthong, Phonesinuan (next to Pizza Company), 021 261 634, facebook.com/MasaSpoonCafeNBistro. Open Monday to Saturday 11am – 11pm.

| Masa Spoon Cafe N' Bistro. |

| Benoni Café |

• BISTRO 22 – French. Chef Philippe presents honest French bistro fare at this cosy, hole-in-the-wall eatery. The food is fresh and flavourful with highlights including the goat’s cheese salad, rabbit terrine and classic steak frites. Popular with the expat crowd, the service is faultless and the desserts, including a delectable chocolate fondant, are not to be missed. 22 Samsenthai Road, Ban Khaonyot, 021 214 129. Open Monday to Friday 11am – 2pm, Monday to Saturday 6pm – 10pm.

| Pimenton. |

• LE SILAPA RESTAURANT – French. Le Silapa is an elegant gastronomic experience housed above the owners more casual establishment I-Beam Bar. Decadent and extensive the menu contains a collection of classic and modern French-inspired delicacies and the wine list includes bottles from France, Italy, Australia and South Africa. For a spot of post-dinner indulgence the cheese selection is outstanding. The ever-changing daily lunch set menu is a steal. Free WiFi. Level 1, 88 Setthathirath Road (above I Beam), 021 219 689, facebook.com/lesilapavientiane. Open 7 days 11am – 11pm.

• PIMENTON – Spanish/Steakhouse/Tapas. Drawing on Hispanic flavours and flair the emphasis here is on open wood fire quality grilled meats and small bites. Try contemporary tapas like montadito of pork belly, homemade grilled chorizo, garlic prawns and imported jamón ibérico de bellota or look to the grill for succulent tenderloin or lamb chops served with a kicky chimichurri sauce. The slick warehouse-esque décor with polished concrete and exposed piping only enhances the dining experience at Vientiane’s hippest eatery. 5 Rue Nokeoukoumane, 021 215 506, pimentonrestaurant-vte.com. Open Monday to Saturday 11am – 2.30pm, 5pm – 10pm.

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• RESTAURANT L’ELEPHANT – French/Lao. L’Elephant is housed in a charming colonial building just steps away from the magnificent Mekong River. Specialising in traditional and creative French and Lao cuisine the kitchen places an emphasis on using organic, local produce which is grown in their own gardens a few kilometres out of town. Free WiFi. Kounxoa Road, Ban Vat Nong, 071 252 482, elephant-restau.com. Open 7 days 11.00am – 10pm.

• JAMIL ZAHID RESTAURANT – Indian/Pakistani. This cheap and cheerful eatery is affectionately known simply as Jamil’s by the loyal diners that frequent it. Tucked down an alley, Jamil and his team serve up authentic Indian and Pakistani dishes which are full of flavour and light on the hip pocket. Ordering anything that comes from Jamil’s on-site traditional tandoori oven is always a safe bet. Off Khounboulom Road, Ban Haysok, 020 5650 2455, facebook.com/JamilZahidRestaurantVientiane. Open 7 days 11.00am – 10.30pm.

• OSAKA HAC CHAO – Japanese. This cosy eatery is usually buzzing with Japanese customers who come for a taste of home – always a good sign. Simple traditional and not-so-traditional Japanese fare is on offer including generous sushi and sashimi platters, crisp tempura, steaming bowls of ramen and udon noodle soups and a variety of katsu dishes. The set meals are a great way to try a little of everything and the tempura ice cream is a quirky addition to the sweets menu. Nokeokoummane Road (next to Le Banneton).

• AI CAPONE – Italian. The latest offering from Chef Gerardo is Ai Capone, in downtown Vientiane. The contemporary interior is matched with a modern menu offering top Italian dining with a casual flair, boasting simple dishes packing authentic flavours. The menu ranges from pastas and mains to risotto and desserts – but it’s hard to look past the wood-fired pizzas with over 40 combinations straight from Napoli. 8 Rue Francois Ngin, Ban Mixai, 020 5991 0888, facebook.com/aicaponelaospdr. Open 7 days 11.30am – 10.30pm.

| L’Adresse de Tinay Restaurant Français. |

| Ai Capone. |

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• L’ADRESSE DE TINAY RESTAURANT FRANÇAIS – French. Chef Tinay produces some of Vientiane’s finest and most inventive French cuisine at this chic dining spot. The whole duck breast with homemade foie gras and white truffle oil is a current favourite and Tinay’s signature cassoulet with homemade confit duck is the perfect nod to traditional French comfort food. For dessert the crème brulee is the best in town. Behind Wat Ong Teu, 020 5691 3434, ladressedetinay.com. Open Monday to Friday 11.30am – 2pm, 6.30pm – 10pm, Saturday 6.30pm – 10pm.

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• TAMNAK LAO RESTAURANT – Lao. A family-run restaurant which delivers delicious authentic and homely Lao cuisine. The in-house cooking school means the staff know their stuff, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Try the crispy bamboo shoots stuffed with pork and vegetables or the ubiquitous Luang Prabang sausage, both are done very well here. Sakarinne Road, 071 212 239, tamnaklao.net. Open 7 days breakfast 8.30am – 10.30am, lunch 11am – 3pm, dinner 5pm – 11pm.

• TAMARIND RESTAURANT – Lao. Tamarind specialises in helping diners explore and learn about Lao cuisine and the traditions associated with it. Enjoy sampling platters or something from the a la carte menu with explanations and demonstrations from helpful staff and the Nam Khan River as a picturesque backdrop. If you’re happy to be guided by the chef try one of the famed specialised feasts choices include Traditional Lao Fish Barbeque, The Adventurous Lao Gourmet and Luang Prabang Family Dinner. Ban Wat Sene on the banks of the Nam Khan River, 071 213 128, tamarindlaos.com. Open Monday to Saturday 11am – 9pm.

LUANG PRABANG

• LES 3 NAGAS – Lao. Dining at Les 3 Nagas is a distinctly local affair with the restaurant housed both on the inviting terrace of the 3 Nagas Hotel and inside an adjacent colonial-style building. Executing both authentic Lao dishes and the chef’s original creations with a touch of French finesse this attractive lunch and dinner spot presents some of the finest food in town. Start your meal with the crisp and tangy Luang Prabang salad and round off with the black sticky rice for dessert. Happy hours 3pm – 6pm. Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong, 071 253 888, 3-nagas.com. Open 7 days 6.30am – 10.30pm.

| Tamarind Restaurant. |

• CAFÉ TOUI – Lao /Western. A colourful hole in the wall on a quiet side street leading to the Mekong River. Chef Toui began his culinary journey as a waiter in Vientiane before working the kitchen at L’Elephant where he developed his passion for cooking. Now head of the kitchen at his own eatery Toui serves up hearty Lao and Western fare using fresh, local ingredients. Sisavangvatthana Road, Ban Xieng Mouane, 020 5657 6763, cafetoui.com. Open 7 days 6.30am – 10.30pm.

• LA BELLE EPOQUE – Lao /Western. Housed in the grand Luang Say Residence, just outside the city centre, this upscale dining room exudes a warm, heritage ambience. The seasonal, healthy and creative menu changes quarterly and features a tempting selection of regional dishes from Laos and further afield in South East Asia. An on-site fruit and vegetable garden means fresh ingredients are always at the kitchen’s fingertips. 4-5 Ban Phonepheng, 071 260 891, luangsayresidence.com. Open 7 days 6am – 10.30pm.

| Les 3 Nagas. |

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PAKSE

• LE PANORAMA – Lao /International. As the name might suggest this leafy rooftop terrace, perched on the top floor of the Hotel Pakse, has the best views in town. Diners can take their pick from a range of cuisines including Lao, Thai and French. No matter what you’re eating the fact remains Le Panorama is the place to sit back, relax and take in a glorious sunset in Pakse, chilled Beerlao in hand optional. Street 5, Bane Watlouang, 031 212 131, hotelpakse.com.

• NADAO – French/Lao. A great find in Pakse, Nadao offers fresh and flavoursome French bistro fare and traditional Lao dishes in a fine dining atmosphere. A little out of the city centre, its location hasn’t stopped locals and visitors alike from flocking to experience some of the best gourmet dining in southern Laos. The service is faultless and the owner/chef will almost always be happy to suggest something from his repertoire. Near the Japanese Bridge (opposite the Champasak Grand Hotel), 021 213 174.

• LAN KHAM NOODLE HOUSE – Lao. Attached to the Lan Kham Hotel this noodle house is considered famous around these parts. Particularly popular with locals for breakfast – you may have to fight for a spot – Lan Kham consistently produces huge steaming bowls of noodle soup accompanied by heaped plates of fresh herbs and greens. Cheap and tasty, having this on your doorstep would be reason enough to stay at the neighbouring guest house. Street 13, Lakmeaumg Village. Open 7 days 6.30am – 1pm.

SAVANNAKHET• CAFÉ CHAI DEE – Japanese/Western. Fun little café housed in a sunshine-yellow building on the main street of Savannakhet. Chai Dee serves up a mix of Japanese favourites including katsudon, sushi, cold noodle salad alongside fresh sandwiches and Thai curries. Cosy into a comfy armchair with a freshly brewed Lao coffee lounge on the sunny terrace with an icy Chai Dee Cooler. Occasional live music in the evenings. Free WiFi, book exchange. 1 Latsavongseuk Road, Lattanalansy Thai Village, 020 9179 2479, cafechaidee.com. Open Tuesday to Sunday 8.30am – 9.00pm.

• LIN’S CAFE – Asian/Café. A friendly tucked away eatery housed in a 1930s building complete with original art-deco tiles. Located in the heart of historic downtown this is the perfect place to while away the afternoon with a fresh Lao coffee and tasty Lao/Vietnamese fare. An upstairs gallery exhibits photographs of old Savannakhet. Free WiFi, tourist information, bicycle rental. Latsaphanit Road, Ban Xaiyaphoum Village, 020 9988 1630, lincafe.netau.net. Open 7 days 8.30am – 8.00pm.

| Cafe Chai Dee. |

| Lin’s Cafe. |

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VIENTIANE

LUANG PRABANG• LE CAFÉ BAN VAT SENE – Café. Sitting pretty on the main street of tranquil Luang Prabang this elegant café-cum-restaurant combines the home-grown ingredients and cuisine of sister bistro L’Éléphant Restaurant with lighter café-style fare including a selection of delectable pastries. Free Wi-Fi. Sakarine Road, 071 252 482, elephant-restau.com/cafebanvatsenefr.html. Open 7 days 7am – 10pm.

• LE PATIO CAFÉ – Lao/Café. Housed in the grounds of the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre this intimate eatery offers a range of dishes from northern Lao ethnic minorities, making it the perfect stop after immersing yourself in Lao culture next door. Located at the base of Phou Si Hill patrons will enjoy a unique vantage point of this distinctive attraction. Free Wi-Fi. Ban Khamyong, [email protected], elephant-restau.com/lepatiocafe.html. Open 7 days 9am – 5pm.

• THE SILK ROAD CAFÉ – Lao. Bringing an east meets west philosophy to the kitchen the Silk Road Café combines regional flavours, local ingredients and ideas from cuisines the silk road passed through. Set against a backdrop of the Mekong River this open-air café is housed on the grounds of the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre making it the perfect spot to grab coffee and a bite after an on-site weaving workshop or demonstration. Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre, Ban Saylom, 071 212 597, ockpoptok.com. Open 7 days 8am – 5pm.

PAKSE• SINOUK COFFEE AND BAKERY – Café. A Lao legacy, the well-known Sinouk Coffee empire has grown from its humble beginnings as a small plantation in the 1990s to a 50 hectare estate and is turning heads across Asia. Pakse’s Sinouk Coffee and Bakery outpost serves up delicious cups of Sinouk’s signature organic blend which comes direct from the farm in Paksong to the table. Free Wi-Fi. Pakse centre, near the Tourism Office, sinouk-cafe.com.

SAVANNAKHET• CAFÉ CHEZ BOUNE – Café/Western. Drawing crowds for great European fare, impressive décor and charming atmosphere, Café Chez Boune is a popular spot for dining out in Savannakhet. Opt for something light such as a tasty bruschetta or baguette or if you’re looking for something more substantial the seared duck breast or tender imported steaks are a good choice. Chaimeuang Road, Xayaphoum Village, 041 215 190, cafechezboune.com. Open 7 days 7am – 10pm.

• COMMON GROUNDS CAFÉ AND BAKERY – Café/Mexican. This family friendly café is the perfect place to kick back in a comfy armchair and refuel with a coffee and homemade cake while the kids enjoy the outdoor playground. Their organic coffee is sourced from Saffron in Luang Prabang which supports farmers to grow coffee instead of opium, so you won’t feel too guilty settling in for a second latte. Free Wi-Fi. Rue Chao Anou, 021 255 057, facebook.com/commongroundslaos. Open Monday to Saturday 7am – 8pm.

• JOMA BAKERY CAFÉ – Café/Western. A name synonymous with the Vientiane café scene, each of Joma’s three Vientiane shopfronts provides tasty, fresh eats and organic fair trade coffee in a cosy, coffeehouse atmosphere. The friendly staff and speedy service make Joma a popular choice for those on-the-go while others tend to linger awhile over breakfast, lunch or any of the delicious in-house baked goods. Free Wi-Fi, delivery. Joma Namphou: Th. Setthathilath, Joma Phonthan: Th. Dongpalane, Joma That Luang: cnr Singha Rd/Nongbone Rd, delivery: 021 254 333, joma.biz. Open 7 days 7am – 9pm.

• CAFÉ NOMAD – Café. A hidden, hip little gem perched on a bustling intersection, Café Nomad is a popular haunt for office workers, embassy staff and those in the know. Their straightforward menu of coffee, juices, paninis and cakes may be small, but it’s all executed extremely well. Free Wi-Fi, public pc/printer/scanner. 1-342 Dongpalanthong, Sisattanak, 020 5434 9977, facebook.

com/cafenomad.lao. Open Monday to Friday 8.30am – 7pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am – 6pm.

• NAKED ESPRESSO – Café. A popular place for a caffeine hit this light filled café serves up some of the best brew in town. Naked Espresso is all about a combination of fine Arabica beans sourced from Southern Laos and Northern Thailand, well-trained baristas, friendly service and a world-class espresso machine. Free Wi-Fi. Dongpalan Road, 021 454 631, nakedespressocafe.net. Open Tuesday to Friday 7am – 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am – 5pm.

• LE TRIO COFFEE – Café. Le Trio Coffee is the latest addition to Vientiane’s buzzy café scene, with their boutique art deco-inspired shopfront. An artisanal roaster since 2009, Le Trio roasts the finest Lao-sourced Arabica and Robusta beans with some of the best European equipment in-house. Now in their own café, guests can enjoy a brew on the sunny terrace, at the elegant salon-style bar, or pick up a bag of beans to enjoy at home. Setthathirath Road, 020 2255 3552, facebook.com/letriocoffee. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 4pm.

• BEGONIA CAFÉ – Café. A cosy new coffee house in the That Luang area, Begonia serves up delicious Saffron-brand coffee from Luang Prabang. Fans of vintage-chic will love the array of quirky trinkets on display including old typewriters, retro phones and record players – and don’t forget to look

up at the colourful umbrellas peppering the ceiling. Don’t miss a slice of Begonia’s signature crepe cake – layer upon layer of delicate crepes sandwiched with a filling of your choice including mango and coconut. Soi 4 off Nongbone Road, 020 5555 5082, facebook.com/pages/Begonia-Café/124868954261514. Open Monday to Saturday 9am – 5.30pm.

• NOY’S FRUIT HEAVEN – Shakes/Café. A cute and colourful hangout that is popular with travellers, Noy and her team serve up fresh and fast fruit shakes and juices in a medley of tropical combinations. If you’re after something you can sink your teeth into Noy’s is great for flavoursome sandwiches, wraps and burgers – try the felafel pita stuffed with fresh salad and feta. 60/2 Rue Hengboun. Open 7 days 7am – 9pm.

• TRUE COFFEE – Shakes/Café. The Vientiane flagship of the popular Thai chain has the slick, western-style coffee house vibe down pat. But comfy sofas and speedy WiFi aside, the coffee here is excellent and comes in a myriad of piping hot and icy cold variations. Situated in the heart of downtown Vientiane True Coffee is perfect for a quick caffeine hit on-the-go or a lengthy escape from the daily grind with one of their delicious selection of sweet treats. 111 Setthathirath Road, close to Nam Phu Fountain, 044 253 338.

| Sinouk Coffee and Bakery |

CAFÉ Listing

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The Little House is a welcome getaway set back from a sleepy road in Vientiane’s downtown. A quaint pebbled path leads you under leafy green trees to this cosy café, where the charming sound of chirping birds perfectly complements the scent of aromatic coffee beans.

The rustic café is designed to seat no more than 15 people, creating a homey and secluded atmosphere. Peacefulness resonates in and around the premises with expatriates and locals alike seeking a scenic place to unwind with coffee and a good book.

The Little House serves Japanese-Lao fusion fare, with a range of coffee, tea and freshly baked goods on offer. Pair a coffee float – made fresh from their own in-house coffee blend – with a few chocolate-orange truffle balls for a decadent morning tea.

The made-to-order scones are also a hit, and are served piping hot with your choice of honey, jam, cream or butter. Balanced out with a refreshing iced green tea, it makes for the perfect afternoon snack.

The café also houses a small handicraft store in cooperation with Handicrafts Promotion Enterprise, which sells cotton scarves, bags and coasters made by the Taidam and Lanten tribes.

The Little HouseOpen Tuesday-Sunday, 8.30am-6.30pmA: Manthatourath Road, Ban Xiengnueun, Vientiane T: 020 5540 6036E: [email protected]

The Little House is a sweet and peaceful sanctuary to relax, retreat and enjoy a signature cup of home-roasted coffee.

The Li t t le House ແມນສະຖານທພກຜອນ ທໃຫ ບນຍາກາດອບອນ ຕງຢໃກກບຖະໜນທຫບໄຫ ຂອງຕວ ເ ມ ອ ງ ວ ຽ ງ ຈນ ຍາ ງ ຜາ ນ ທ າ ງ ນອ ຍ ທປ ດວ ຍ ກອ ນ ຫ ນ ທແປກຕາ ແລະ ຜານຕນໄມທຂຽວງາມ ແລວນາທານ ໄ ປ ສຮາ ນ ກ າ ເ ຟ ທອບ ອນ ແ ຫງ ນ ຊງ ເ ປ ນ ສ ະ ຖ າ ນ ທ ທມສຽງນກຮອງ ປະສານກນຢາງລງຕວ ກບກນຫອມ ຂອງເມດກາເຟຂວ.

ຮານກາເຟ ທຮຽບງາຍແຫງນ ແມນອອກແບບ ໃຫມບອນ ນງບເກນ 15 ຄນ ຊງສາງ ໃຫມ ບນຍາກາດທສະບາຍ ແລະ ງຽບສະຫງບ, ຄວາມງຽບສະຫງບ ໄດສະທອນອອກ ໃນບນຍາກາດ ທງພາຍໃນ ແລະ ອອມແອມສະຖານທ ພອມດວຍແຂກຕາງປະເທດ ແລະ ຄນທອງຖນ ທສະແຫວງ ຫາສະຖານທ ທສວຍງາມ ເພອຜອນຄາຍໄປກບ ກາເຟ ແລະ ການອານປມທດ.

Little House ໃຫບລການ ລາຍການອາຫານ ປະສມປະສານ ລາວ-ຍປນ ພອມ ກາເຟ ຊາ ແລະ ອາຫານອບ ທຫາກຫາຍ ໄວໃຫບລການ, ດມກາເຟຈກ 2 ຈອກ ທເຮດຈາກເຄອງເຮດ ກາເຟຂອງຮານເອງ ພອມດວຍຊອກໂກແລດໝາກກຽງ ສາລບ ການດມຊາໃນຕອນເຊາ.

ຂະໜມປງສະຄອນ ກອນນອຍຕາມສງ ແມນເປນທນຍມ ແລະ ພອມເສບຮອນໆ ເພອຈມກບສງທທານເລອກ ເຊນ: ນາເຜງ ແຢມ ຄຣມ ຫ ເນຍ ຕມເຕມດວຍ ຊາຂຽວໃສນາກອນທສດຊນ ຊງເໝາະສມສາລບເປນອາຫານວາງໃນຕອນສວາຍ.

ຮານກາຟ ຍງເປນສະຖານທ ສາລບເຄອງຫດຖະກາຝມຂະໜາດນອຍ ແລະ ທາງຮານ ຮວມກບວສາຫະກດສງເສມເຄອງ ຫດຖະກາ ຊງຂາຍຜາພນຄຝາຍ ກະເປາ ແລະ ເຄອງຮອງຈອກ ທຜະລດໂດຍຊນເຜາແລນແຕນ ແລະ ໄທດາ.

ຮານກາເຟ Little Houseເປດ ວນຄານ-ວນອາທດ, 8.30 -18.30 ໂມງໂທ: 020 55406036ທຢ: ຖະໜນມນທາຕລາດ, ບານຊຽງຍນ, ນະຄອນຫວງວຽງຈນ ອເມວ: [email protected]

ອບອນຄຢເຮອນ

HIGHLIGHTDrinkwords & photos Shayling Ngo

ຮານ The Little House ແມນສະຖານທ ທມຄວາມງຽບສະຫງບ ແລະ ບນຍາກາດທແສນຫວານສາລບການ

ພກຜອນຢອນໃຈ ແລະ ມຄວາມສກກບຈອກກາເຟທຂວເອງ ຊງມລດຊາດແຊບຊອຍຂອງຮານ.

A Home Away From Home

A Home Away From Home

| Homemade scones with jam and cream. |

| Coffee float. |

| Chocolate-orange truffles. |

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BAR Listing

VIENTIANE• CHOKDEE CAFÉ & BELGIAN BEER BAR – Bar/Belgian. This cosy pub, decorated with Tin Tin paraphernalia, is the place to come if you’ve got a hankering for Hoegaarden or any of the other 79 imported Belgian beers they keep. Huge steaming pots of moules frites attract big crowds every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Free WiFi, beer specials on Thursdays. 32/4 Fa Gnum Quai (along the Mekong River front), 020 5610 3434, chokdeecafe.com. Open 7 days 10am – 11pm.

• STICKY FINGERS – Bar/Western/Lao. Sticky’s, as it’s more affectionately known, is a long-time expat institution drawing big crowds for their legendary happy hour on Wednesday and Friday nights. The bartenders make a mean Tom Yum Martini which, refreshingly piquant, comes complete with a whole chilli garnish. Free WiFi, delivery. 10/3 Rue Francois Nginn, 021 215 972. Open Monday to Friday 5pm – 11pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 11pm.

• I-BEAM BAR – Wine/Tapas Modern and casual this intimate bar combines an excellent drop of red or white with seasonal share plates like dainty croquettes, marinated vegetables and an inventive take on nachos con carne. I-Beam buzzes on Wednesday nights

when ladies receive half price wine by the glass. Live jazz on Thursday nights. Free WiFi, lunch buffet daily. 88 Setthathirath Road, 021 254 523, facebook.com/ibeamvientiane. Open 7 days 11am – 11pm.

• KONG VIEW RESTAURANT AND BAR – Bar/Asian. A contemporary Lao-style house with a leafy open air deck jutting right out to the Mekong River. Enjoy a cocktail or a beer at sunset then while away the evening under the stars and colourful lanterns on the terrace nibbling on some of the selection of Lao and Thai-inspired share plates. 183 Souphanouvong Road, Hom 1 Ban Nongpanay, 021 520 522, kongview.com.

• SUITE21 COCKTAIL BAR AND LOUNGE – Cocktail. $$ A hip nightspot serving up some of the best cocktails in town and in trendy mason jars no less. Try their lychee or passionfruit spin on the classic mojito and chill out with a flavoured shisha of which they have an extensive range of flavours. Suite21 also stocks a range of imported beer including the ever-elusive Corona chilled to perfection and done right with a wedge of lime. Free WiFi. Ban Phonesavang (between Star Pub and Sai Jai Restaurant), 020 7813 1399, facebook.com/Suite21Vientiane. Open Tuesday to Sunday 7.30pm – 12.30am.

• THE SPIRIT HOUSE – Bar/Lao/Western. An inviting meeting point with a sprawling terrace looking onto the Mekong River. The cocktail list is extensive with quality liquors preferred, perfect for a sundowner paired with tasty Lao bar snacks. It’s located on a quiet stretch of the waterfront which makes for a peaceful breakfast or afternoon drink before it busies up in the evening. Free WiFi. 93/09 Fa Ngum Road, Ban Seetarn Neua, 021 243 795, thespirithouselaos.com, [email protected]. Open 7 days 7am – 11pm.

| Chokdee Café |

| I-Beam Bar |

| Kop Chai Deu |

• WINE95 – Wine. Whether you’re after a full-bodied red or a dry white Wine95 is the last word in wine service in Vientiane. Upon entry it is evident these guys know their stuff with a slick, fully stocked cellar bar complete with the DiWine Service System guaranteeing a fresh drop in every glass. A staircase leads to an intimate upstairs space with elegant lounges and objects d’art. Setthathirat Road (next to Phimphone), 020 5550 2957, facebook.com/Wine95. Open Monday to Saturday 5pm – 12am.

• BOR PEN NYANG – Bar/Western/Lao. This casual rooftop bar attracts an eclectic crowd of locals, seasoned expats and backpackers all who vie for a prime position along the balcony to watch the sunset over the Mekong River with a Beerlao nam kohn. Once the night comes things tend to kick up a notch with parties hitting the pool tables and beer towers. Fa Ngum Road, Wat Chanh, 020 5580 8281. Open 7 days 11am – 12am.

• JAZZY BRICK – Bar. With its exposed brickwork, moody lighting and distinct vintage-look decor The Jazzy Brick exudes effortless cool. The friendly staff make a mean cocktail and can usually make a recommendation from the extensive menu and the wine list is well-edited. Setthathirat Road (next to Wine95), 021 212 489, facebook.com/jazzybricklao. Open 7 days 6pm – 12am.

• THE HIGHLAND RESTAURANT & BAR –Sports bar. Casual and relaxed open-air sports bar with views of the Mekong River. Drawing huge crowds for rugby, football and soccer matches all broadcast live on big-screen televisions, the menu includes Lao, pizza and pub-style fare – perfect for ravenous sports fans. Khamkhong Road, Ban Khounta, 020 7759 4971, highlandbar.com.

• SENGTAWAN ROOFTOP BAR – Bar. Sitting pretty on the top floor of the Sengtawan Riverside Hotel this rooftop terrace enjoys one of the most picturesque views of the Mekong River. Situated on the riverfront, a little out of the downtown action, this laidback spot is perfect for a low-key afternoon or evening of drinks and dinner. Ban Sithan Neua, 021 219 362, sengtawan.com. Open 7 days.

• KOP CHAI DEU – Bar/Lao/Western. Kop Chai Deu have hit the nail on the head with their slogan ‘the place where the world meets’, on any given night the oldest and arguably best-located bar in Vientiane brings together locals, expats and travellers with refreshing drinks, good food and nightly live music. Try to nab a spot on the upper level decking to enjoy the sultry Lao evenings. Free WiFi. 54 Setthathirat Road (next to Nam Phu fountain), 021 251 564, facebook.com/KhopChaiDeu.

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LUANG PRABANG• TANGOR – Bar/Tapas. Contemporary chic meets colonial charm at this intimate spot on Luang Prabang’s main stretch. Tangor specialises in impeccably crafted cocktails and a generous selection of local and imported beers and ciders. Market produce dictates the ever-changing menu of share plates but luckily for us their standout fish ceviche is a mainstay. House 63/6 Rue Susavangvong, 020 9560 7262, [email protected]. Open 7 days 11am – 11pm.

• 1861 BAR – Cocktail. Capturing the essence of a traditional colonial café this light and airy salon-style cocktail bar welcomes patrons with classic well-worn chesterfields, an inviting terrace and a marble fireplace in cooler months. The bar draws on inspiration from its home at the Luang Say Residence with a heritage theme featuring displays of old-world maps of Laos, hunting excursions and botanical studies. Enjoy fine wines from around the world and a range of enticing cocktails prepared with top-shelf spirits in this sophisticated and

ambient venue. 4-5 Ban Phonepheng, 071 260 891, luangsayresidence.com. Open 7 days 9am – 11pm.

• HIVE BAR AND RESTAURANT – Bar/American. This vibrant garden bar is best known for its snappy cocktails, extensive beer and wine list and for serving up home style southern favourites. Grab a beer and try the mahogany smoked BBQ ribs or pulled pork sandwich. Nightly live entertainment includes Ethnik; a live fashion show of ethnic minority costumes and hip hop performed by local b-boys. Bar Street, Ban Aphay, 020 5999 5370, hivebarlaos.com. Open Monday to Saturday 7am – 12am, Sunday 10am – 12am.

• ICON KLUB – Cocktail. This cosy bohemian haunt attracts a creative crowd, and welcomes live music, and hosts open mic poetry nights. Icon’s walls are adorned with vintage posters and film noir stills and

| Hive Bar and Restaurant |

punters are most likely to be seen sipping a brilliantly made cocktail (try the Bloody Mary or a dry martini) over a game of chess or retro board game. Free WiFi. Siphouttabath Road, Ban Xiengmouan, 071 254 905, iconklub.com. Open 7 days 5pm – 11.30pm.

• UTOPIA – Bar/Lao/Western. Hidden on the lush banks of the Nam Khan river amongst charming tropical gardens and thatched decking Utopia has perfected laid back paradise. Patrons can languidly sip tropical cocktails on the cushioned terrace watching the river go by, play a board game with neighbours or party into the night in a tiki hut. Ban Aphay, 020 2388 1771, utopialuangprabang.com. Open 7 days 8am – 11.30pm.

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VIENTIANE

RELAX Listing

• ADINA SPA This experienced spa team provides the ultimate pampering. Unlike many others spas, they provide Japanese traditional massages, Indian massages and a Hot Stone Massage. The facials are amongst the most advanced in the city. Higher-end prices. 170 Phonsaath, Kaysone Road, 021 414 138, 9am-10pm, www.adinaspalao.com.

• CHAMPA SPA & MASSAGE Champa has two locations in town within serene, quiet surroundings. Tradit ional Lao Massage, Herbal Treatments, Aromatherapy Massage and Body Steams have a range of lengths and prices. There is also a hand and foot spa, and waxing services. Among the best in Vientiane. Corner of Fa Ngum and Pangkham Roads, near Nam Phu, 021 251 926, 9am-10pm, www.champaspa.com.

• DALAH SPA Luxurious Dalah Spa have a mineral milk bath, anti-stress back and shoulder treatments, the Four Hands Massage and sports massage for those exerting themselves. Located on a quiet lane just off the main road. 140 Khouvieng Road, 021 285 125, 9am-9pm.

• GIRIYA SPA You’ve got to travel to Rashmi’s Hotel, 3km from the city centre, to reach Giriya, but that’s small sacrifice for the awaiting experience. There’s an Indian atmosphere reflected in the decoration, while Thai masseuses give excellent massages in private rooms. Soon open to membership. Rashmi’s Hotel, Thadeua Road Km3, 021 315 088, www.rashmishotel.com.

• MANEE SPA About 4km from the city centre, Manee Spa offers consistently good massages in a tranquil setting. There are several private rooms with quality tables and a tasteful interior. It’s on the higher price scale but the setting with beautiful gardens is second to none. Sokpaluang Road, past the Myanmar Embassy, 021 353 207.

• NIKOLAZ MASSAGE This is just a 5-minute walk from the Mekong in the centre of town and they offer advanced massage and body therapies, as well as the traditional foot and body massages. The owners are very friendly and can further elaborate on options available. 45 Settathirath Road, 9am-11pm.

• NIRVANA SPA The head and back massage is particularly good but it’s possible to get a combination of several treatments. The delightful honey body wrap could be combined with aromatic skin massage, followed by a herbal skin polish. Pangkham Road, facing Lao Plaza Hotel, 021 222 936, 10am-9pm, www.nirvana-spa-laos.com.

• PAPAYA SPA The setting in an old French colonial villa is charm enough, but inside the opulence is even greater. They’ve a Swedish oil massage, offer facials, body scrubs, reflexology and saunas. It’s definitely one of the pricier in the capital, but well worth it to relax in a state of pure luxury for a few hours. Phanya Sy Road, 021 216 550, 9.30am-7.30pm Tue-Sun, www.papayaspa.com.

• WHITE LOTUS MASSAGE & YOGA White Lotus gives excellent foot massages in relaxing leather recliners. It’s one of the more affordable yet consistent massage businesses in town and has a great aromatherapy massage. Try the signature lotus foot massage or the Cleopatra treatment with gold masque for 200,000kip – heavenly. Also does yoga instruction. Pangkham Road, close to Nam Phu, 021 217 492, 10am-10pm.

| Papaya Spa |

| Dalah Spa |

• GREEN PARK CHAMPA LAO SPA This hotel-based spa is walled-in with dark woods and has snow white beds with trinkets on lockers and candles burning for soft light. They’ve got traditional massage, body exfoliation and expert facial treatments for guests and visitors. Foot massages take place in comfy recliners with a view to the gardens. Green Park Hotel, 12 Khouvieng Road, 021 263 064, 10am-7pm, www.greenparkvientiane.com.

• HEALING HANDS MASSAGE & SPA Located within Don Chan Palace Hotel on the Mekong Riverfront. They offer reflexology, natural aromatherapy oil massages and Lao hot herbal compress treatments within a spacious and warmly coloured parlour. Don Chan Palace Hotel, Fa Ngum Road, 021 244 288, 10am-7pm, www.donchanpalacelaopdr.com.

• HERBAL SAUNA This establishment has Lao style herbal saunas for men and women in separate rooms. It also offers different massages including Lao, oil and foot. Entrance fees include a towel for men but women must rent a sarong for a small fee. Located very close to the Mekong in central Vientiane. Chao Anou Road, 020 5504 5655, 1pm-9pm.

• MANDARINA BODY & SOUL SPA Another one of many in the centre of Vientiane, but definitely among the best. The staff is friendly and there’s a few packages to choose from. Otherwise, the Traditional Lao massage is very popular and the Swedish massage is also well worth a try. Pangkham Road, near Nam Phu, 021 223 857, 10am-9.30pm.

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| Kiridara Spa |

LUANG PRABANG

• AYU SPA At Xieng Thong Palace Hotel, Ayu Spa is massage and body treatment heaven. Holistic practices performed by experienced therapists are a perfect way to slip into true relaxation. You could spend a half-day sampling the variety of massage and sauna/steam options, while a pedicure or manicure ties a few hours off. Kounxaou Road, Ban Phoneheung, 071 213 200, www.xiengthongpalace.com.

• DHAMMADA OASIS MASSAGE Tucked away beside a beautiful lotus pond and surrounded by coconut trees, Dhammada provides exceptional massages. There are aroma, oriental and foot massages to ease body tensions and bigger packages to spend a few hours. Very friendly and experienced staff makes Dhammada one of the best in town. Luang Prabang Oasis Hotel, Ban Vixoun, 071 212 642, www.luangprabangoasis.com.

• DOK CHAMPA MASSAGE Fully trained and qualified massage therapists mean Dok Champa is an excellent place to relieve stress. They offer sports, aromatic oil, and gel and lotion massage. There are also deep cleansing facials for those looking for complete body rejuvenation. Visounarath Road, Ban Vixoun, 020 7777 9966, www.dokchampamassage.com.

• KIRIDARA SPA Kiridara Spa’s signature treatment is the Nuat Bouhan Massage, which lasts 90 minutes and fuses ancient Lao traditions with the regional therapies of Japanese Shiatsu, Thai massage and Chinese acupuncture. They’ve got many packages to choose from and the view over Luang Prabang is stunning. 22/13 North Road, Ban Naviengkham, 071 261 888, www.snhcollection.com/kiridara.

• LAO RED CROSS Popular with health conscious locals and tourists alike, the Lao Red Cross Traditional Sauna and Massage provides quality, age-old therapies in a newly renovated colonial-era house opposite Vat Visoun. Try the herbal steam bath (10,000 kip) and unwind with a therapeutic oil massage (from 50,000 kip per hour). All profits support disaster relief and community development. Opposite Vat Visoun, 071 252 856, 7 days 1pm-9pm.

• LUANG PRABANG YOGA This collective runs classes in yoga and meditation for beginner and experienced practitioners. The group alternates their regular classes between several picturesque riverside locations including Utopia and Ock Pop Tok and holds yoga retreats at Mandala Ou Resort in Nong Khiaw. luangprabangyoga.org.

• L’HIBISCUS SPA Across from Wat Sop, L’Hibiscus has been open for several years and rated amongst the best in town. Hot herbal compress, aromatherapy and even eye treatments are on the menu. L’Hibiscus is in a charming old two-storey building and exudes a soothing atmosphere. 45 Sakhaline Road, 030 923 5079, 10am-10pm.

• SANCTUARY MASSAGE This is the place to try a superb Thai herbal compress massage. Sanctuary applies steamed Thai and Chinese herbs to the body in a kneading action to release muscle tension and stiffness. There are also aroma and oriental massages in calming rooms. Sanctuary Hotel, Kitsalat Road, 071 213777, www.sanctuaryluangprabang.com.

• THE SPA GARDEN Spread over three locations, The Spa Garden (also known as Aroma Spa) has a deep tissue massage, a Mystic Lao massage and a foot massage with herbal creams amongst its signature treatments. Spa products also available for purchase. Ban Phonheuang, 071 212325, 10am-11pm, www.spagardenlpb.com.

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VIENTIANE

SEE & DO Listing

• COPE VISITOR CENTRE – Museum. Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise, or COPE, is a locally run non-profit working with partners to provide rehabilitation services for Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) survivors and other people with disabilities across Laos. The Visitor Centre houses a free exhibition about UXO in Laos, stories from survivors and information on the services provided by COPE. Interactive displays, excellent documentaries and imagery provide a thought-provoking experience to visitors. There is an opportunity to support COPE through the gift shop or a donation. Centre of Medical Rehabilitation, Khouvieng Road, 021 218 427, 9am–6pm, 7 days, www.copelaos.org.

• DAY TRIP TO NAM NGUM LAKE – Tour. The perfect way to get back to nature while staying close to your base in Vientiane, Green Discovery Laos takes you to the Nam Ngum Resevoir. En route on this guided day-trip participants will get a first-hand look at Hmong village life to meet locals and visit the market before taking in the 11th century archaeological site of Van Xang. At the reservoir you’ll lunch on a floating restaurant and explore fishing villages and small islands by boat before returning to Vientiane. For more information visit greendiscoverylaos.com.

• FROM FARM TO MARKET – Tour. Local tour guides Tuk Tuk Safari specialise in small group educational and interactive tours of Vientiane and surrounds. On this tour patrons will visit the Panyanivej Eco Rice and Fish Farm to have a hand at traditional Lao fishing, rice planting and other farm activities before using fresh farm ingredients to cook a traditional Lao lunch. 020 5433 3089, tours run daytime from Monday to Saturday, www.tuktuksafari.com.

| Cope Visitor Centre |

| Lao Experiences Cooking Class and Food Tours |

| i:cat gallery |

• HOUEY HONG VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE FOR WOMEN – Class/Craft. The Centre provides training and employment for disadvantaged Lao women in the areas of natural dyeing, weaving, tailoring and administration. Visitors can tour the facilities and take part in dyeing and weaving classes creating a unique textile to take home, the cost of which includes transfers, lunch and provides direct support to the Centre. The gift shop sells stylish products made on-site by staff and trainees. Lane 19, Houey Hong Village, 021 560 006, Mon-Sat 8.30am–12pm, 1.30pm–4.30pm, www.houeyhongcentre.com.

• I:CAT GALLERY – Gallery. A bright and inviting gallery space featuring a revolving programme of engaging exhibitions from local artists working in a range of mediums. A collection of original prints, art books, photography, paintings and handmade cards are permanently for sale in the gallery space and past installations and events have included visual art, music, poetry, film and fashion. 230-231 Thanon Settathirath, Ban Simeuang, 020 7783 9674, Mon-Fri 6pm–8pm, Sat-Sun 1pm-6pm, www.facebook.com/icatgallery.

• LAO BOWLING CENTRE – Activity. A friendly place for a game of 10 pin by day this unassuming venue is an evening hot spot with crowds flocking here once the regular haunts close. Get here in the early evening if you actually plan to get in a few rounds because by eight o’clock this joint is packed with locals having a laugh over Beerlao and interesting bowling techniques. But bor pen nyang, half the fun is kicking back with friends and waiting for a free lane. There are also snooker tables available for hire. Boulevard Khunbulom (near the National Stadium), 9am–late, 7 days.

• LAO DISABLED WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT CENTRE – Tour/Craft. A local non-profit run by women with disabilities for women with disabilities. In a beautiful setting near the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge the Centre is a hive of activity with training programmes including sewing and needlework, social development and women’s civil rights. Visitors can tour the centre, buy locally-made handicrafts including accessories, fashion items and homewares and learn how they are made. Thadeua Road, Hadsayfong District, 021 812282, 8.30am–5pm, 7 days, www.laodisabledwomen.com.

| Lao Disabled Women's Development Centre |

• LAO EXPERIENCES COOKING CLASS AND FOOD TOURS – Class/Tour. Join friendly host Nook as she teaches you to cook popular Lao dishes with fresh ingredients and traditional methods. These fun and interactive classes are held in a leafy garden kitchen by the Mekong River, the perfect setting to throw together a tasty laap or mok pa (banana leaf steamed fish) all of which you’ll devour at the end of class. The additional tour of the largest fresh market in Vientiane is great for those new to Lao ingredients. Bookings at The Full Moon Café or via lao-experiences.com, 020 5569 9429. Classes and Market Tours conducted daily.

• VIENTIANE BYCYCLE – Tour. Explore Vientiane on two wheels in either a guided half or full-day tour allowing you to uncover a different side to the city. You’ll follow the gentle curve of the Mekong River to explore nearby scenic villages and observe fishermen and local temples. Back in the city centre you’ll pass touristic highlights like glittering temples, the grand Presidential Palace, Patuxai and That Luang while also venturing off the beaten path to capture scenes of Lao daily life in sleepy residential areas. 020 5581 2337, Tours run daily 8am to 5pm, www.vientianebycycle.com.

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LUANG PRABANG

| Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre.|

• OCK POP TOK LIVING CRAFTS CENTRE – Class/Craft. Take part in a fun hands-on workshop and learn traditional weaving and dying techniques from skilled Lao artisans at this handicrafts centre set in lush tropical gardens overlooking the Mekong River. A variety of classes suitable for a range of skill levels are on offer or you could visit the weaving centre for a free tour and observe weavers at their craft. Ban Saylom (opposite Phousi Market), 071 212 597, 9am–5pm, 7 days, www.ockpoptok.com.

| Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre|

• TRADITIONAL ARTS AND ETHNOLOGY CENTRE – Museum/Craft. Housed in a renovated heritage building at the foot of Phou Si hill, TAEC is a museum dedicated to the promotion of the culture and knowledge of Laos’ diverse ethnic communities. Several permanent and rotating cultural exhibitions showcase artefacts, traditional art and clothing of Lao ethnic groups and give insight into the diversity and richness of the country. The gorgeous museum shop which keeps handicrafts from village artisans is well worth a look. Guided tours available for an additional fee. Ban Khamyong (behind Dara Market), 071 253 364, taeclaos.org. Open Tuesday to Sunday 9am – 6pm.

• TAMARIND COOKING SCHOOL – Class. This popular cooking class, run by the restaurant of the same name, has been schooling students in the art of laap for years. Participants will first check out ingredients at a local fresh market then head to Tamarind’s lake-side cooking school to cook and, more importantly, eat. The menu consists of a range of Lao classics including jeow spicy dipping sauces and Tamarind’s signature chicken and herb-stuffed lemongrass. To book and for more information visit tamarindlaos.com. Full day classes Mon-Sat 9am–3pm, evening classes Mon-Fri 4pm–8.30pm.

• ELEPHANT VILLAGE – Tour. Get up close to magnificent pachyderms at this tourist destination operated by international specialists and volunteers who aim to rescue, protect and rehabilitate elephants in Laos. There are a myriad of activities on offer for visitors including thrilling elephant rides, bathing elephants in the Nam Kahn River, a basic mahout training course and feedings. You can also stay overnight in on-site accommodation, aptly named the Elephant Lodge. To book and for more information visit elephantvillage-laos.com. Tours run 7 days.

• LUANG PRABANG PILATES – Class. This group organises beginner/intermediate Pilates classes several times per week. Mat classes take place at Mekong Yoga Studio in Ban Aphai and at a hotel near Dara Market. Private and individual sessions also available. Their website is the best source of current information. www.luangprabangpilates.com

• LUANG PRABANG YOGA – Class. Luang Prabang Yoga is a cooperative of independent yoga teachers who offer yoga in the city’s most beautiful locations. Classes are held at Utopia Bar and Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre. 90 minute classes are 50,000kip for the expat/traveller and 30,000 kip for locals. 60 minute classes are 30,000kip for expat/travellers and 20,000 for Lao. Check their website for timetables. www.luangprabangyoga.org

| Elephant Village |

| Luang Prabang Yoga | | Luang Prabang Yoga |

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PAKSE

• KOFFIE’S COFFEE WORKSHOP PAKSONG – Tour. Explore Southern Laos’ renowned coffee country and see just how beans make it into your morning cup of Joe. You will visit Koffie’s own organic coffee plantation and farm when you’ll see arabica growing, picked, then learn about the husking and drying processes. After lunch you’ll get hands-on in roasting arabica beans yourself and brew yourself a flavourful cup of aromatic java. For more information visit paksong.info/laos_coffee_workshop.php, 020 2276 0439, [email protected].

• SINOUK COFFEE RESORT – Garden. A must-see if you’re travelling through the Bolaven Plateau, Sinouk is a name synonymous with coffee in Laos. Surrounding the resort are palatial landscaped gardens which include coffee plants, rock gardens, a lake and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy a signature locally grown cup of coffee from Sinouk’s nearby plantation in the pavilion restaurant or cafe. For more information visit sinoukcoffeeresort.com.

• TREE TOP EXPLORER AT JUNGLE HOTEL PAKSONG – Tour. Green Discovery Laos lead an unforgettable adventure in an unparalleled South East Asian mountain forest setting of Champassak province. This tour is not for the faint-hearted with zip-lining over gorges and waterfalls and breathtaking views from a canopy walkway leading to great fun in a stunning environment. Retire to the Jungle Hotel Paksong a cluster of private treehouses set amongst the lush forest. The ultimate experience in nature. For more information visit greendiscoverylaos.com.

| Sinouk Coffee Resort |

| Tree Top Explorer |

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VIENTIANE

SHOP Listing

• LAO FINE ARTS HANDICRAFT JEWELLERY Superbly crafted, resplendent jewellery made from wood, coconut and silver can be bought here. Other contemporary and more traditional items can also be purchased. 550/01 Thatluang Tai Village, Saysettha District, 020 5542 6993, 9.30am-5.30pm.

• NIGHT MARKET Drawing hordes of tourists and locals to the riverside each evening you simply can’t miss the two rows of red-topped marquees along the waterfront mingling with smoky food stalls and mountainous balloon displays. The wares on sale may be aimed predominately towards tourists (think t-shirts, trinkets and Buddhist inspired art) but locals shop here too and there are plenty of bargains to be had. Mekong riverfront, Fa Ngum Road, Sunset-9pm, 7 days.

• SAOBAN CRAFTS A treasure trove of handmade handicrafts created by over 300 artisans from villages across Laos. In store you’ll find unique woven baskets and textiles, exquisite homewares and contemporary jewellery with most goods crafted from natural dyes, local bamboo and organically grown cotton and proceeds going back to the artist. 97/1 Chao Anou Road, Mon-Sat 9am–8pm, Sun 1pm–8pm, www.saobancrafts.com.

| Ministry of Silk |

• T’SHOP LAI GALLERY A delightful gallery and crafts store featuring works from local and visiting artists and producing and selling the Les Artisans Lao range of organic skincare and beauty products. The range includes luscious body creams and soaps, all-natural repellents and aromatic oils. Vat Inpeng Street, 021 223 178, Mon-Sat 8am–8pm, Sun 10am–6pm, www.artisanslao.com.

• CAROL CASSIDY TEXTILES Intricate traditional Lao textiles are displayed in this beautiful gallery-workshop whose local weavers have exhibited in US museums. Carol works alongside local weavers to produce some incredibly complex and attractive pieces, specialising in 100% hand-woven silk. Noekummane Road, Ban Mixay, Mon-Fri 8am-12pm & 2pm-5pm, Sat 8am-12pm, www.laotextiles.com.

• FINER THINGS Radiant silks and authentic handicrafts line the walls of Finer Things. The shop, set over two floors, has a flowing selection of traditional Lao skirts, colourful silks and figurines made from the delicate material. 34/03 Francois Ngin Road, 9am-6.30pm.

• MINISTRY OF SILK The Ministry of Silk displays a vast array of fine men’s and women’s clothing, fashion accessories, jewellery and handbags. The label is Laos’ first ready-to-wear collection and this flagship is one of the most prestigious stores in Vientiane, serving champagne and wine to customers. 99/01 Nam Phou Square, 021 213 776, 9am-9pm, 7 days, www.ministryofsilk.com.

• MONUMENT BOOKS Monument Books has good-sized fiction and regional literature sections, as well as children’s travel, arts and history shelves. Travel guidebooks are available and Southeast Asian newspapers and international magazines are just inside the door. Nokeokoummane Road, 021 243 708, Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm, www.monument-books.com.

| Carol Cassidy Textiles | | T'Shop Lai Gallery |

| Saoban Crafts |

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LUANG PRABANG

• PHOSI MARKET A small distance away from the centre of town lies Phosi Market. This space sees every smell, sound and sight stake a corner as meat, spices, fresh vegetables, and fruits live side by side with those selling phones, watches and house wares. If you’re after a glimpse of local life, don’t miss this. Photisalath Road, south of Phou Vao Rd, 7am-5pm.

• CAMA CRAFTS This is a non-profit self-help project that supports village women by providing a space for them to sell their goods to a wider audience. Handmade products show off traditional patterns and craft techniques and make excellent mementos or gifts. Ounkham Road, Ban Wath Nong, Luang Prabang, 071 254594, www.camacrafts.org.

• CARUSO LAO All products in here are handmade from wood or silk and wholly produced in Laos, overseen by the shop’s Canadian owner. There are wooden bowls, bed spreads, Buddha heads and cushions to catch the customer’s eye. Sakkarine Road, 071 254574, 9am-9pm, www.carusolao.com.

• MA TE SAI A boutique shop with shelves of original souvenirs and handicrafts. The store seeks to help local people by working with them to sell their products and improve their livelihoods. Many of the souvenirs are made from recycled paper, bamboo and other natural materials. Sisangvong Road, Ban Xieng Mouane, 071 260 654, 8am-9pm, www.matesai.com.

• NIGHT MARKET Down the length of Sisavangvong Rd is the city’s famous Night Market. Weave under awnings to admire handicrafts such as rosewood carvings and silver jewellery, alongside herbal teas, rice paper diaries and beautiful linen dresses. It’s a friendly market and bargains are to be had. Sisangvong Road, 5pm-11pm, 7 days (weather dependent).

• OCK POP TOK A shop with a difference. Ock Pop Tok seeks to empower local women by developing their artistic skills and sells their items. Woven textiles, bags and scarves are on offer, while they also run classes for visitors who want to try their hand at production or just admire artisans at work. The group also has a flagship store in Ban Vat Nong. Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Sene, 071 253 219, 8am-9pm, www.ockpoptok.com.

• TRADITIONAL ARTS & ETHNOLOGY CENTRE Although better known as a museum, the centre also supports over 500 handicraft producers from across Laos. They sell beaded necklaces, belts, backpacks, jewellery and lots of other items that showcase the enormous ethnic diversity of Laos. Kitsalat Road, Ban Khamyong, 071 253 364, Tue-Sun 9am-6pm, www.taeclaos.org.

• L’ETRANGER BOOKS & TEA This quaint book café lies close to the Nam Khan River and sells second-hand books. It’s well-stocked and has novels in many languages that cover the arts, travel, fiction, culture and regional history. Over 70 varieties of tea are for sale upstairs. Phousi Road, Ban Aphay, 071 212 880, Mon-Sat 7am-10pm, Sun 10am-10pm.

• PASSA PAA The culmination of British and Lao creative minds, this store is the shopfront for the textile and accessories label of the same name. The label explores the language of desing that has evolved in Laos to re-think, re-interpret, and re-construct patterns, symbols and forms into contemporary bags, scarves, purses and more. 79 Ban Vat Sene, 020 5541 1244, 7 days 8am-8pm, www.passa-paa.com. | Passa Paa |

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| Ma Te Sai |

Page 59: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

A Stylish Budget AccommodationOption in Luang Prabang

The Ultimate Relaxation Hideaway

125 Unit 7, Bane Vixoun, Luang Prabang, Lao PDRTel: +856 (0) 71 212 642, +856 (0) 71 252 933www.tropicaloasispark.com

FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CONTACT:

Tropial Oasis Park 21.5x28 cm.indd 59 7/29/57 BE 10:17 AM

Page 60: Sabaidee Lifestyle & Travel Magazine issue 18

• MERCURE VIENTIANE – Top end. Mercure Vientiane is a 4 star-hotel that caters to both business and leisure travellers. This charming hotel is positioned conveniently close to Wattay International Airport, the Mekong River waterfront and the town centre with its many restaurants, cafes and bars. Enjoy fantastic service, sumptuous buffet or a la carte dining and a sunny pool terrace bar. Free WiFi, spa, pool, fitness. Unit 10 Samsenthai Road, 021 213 570, accorhotels.com. Open 24 hours. Le Café open 7 days 6am – 10pm, Poolside and Lobby bars open 7 days 7am – 10pm.

• CHANTHAPANYA HOTEL – Mid range. Conveniently located in the heart of the city centre you’ll be at the doorstep of Vientiane’s myriad of bars, cafes and restaurants in this family-run hotel. The warm and inviting atmosphere extends to the spotless guest rooms which are decorated with Lao artworks and ornate carved timber furniture. Free WiFi, pool, business, transfers. Rue Nokeokoumane, Ban Mixay, 021 244 284, chanthapanyahotel.com. Open 24 hours.

• LAO PLAZA HOTEL – Top end. A preferred destination for travellers to Vientiane this is the country’s first five star hotel and is setting new standards in luxury hospitality. Over 130 rooms pair thoughtful Lao-influenced décor with modern conveniences. Opportunities for relaxation abound with a glistening swimming pool and traditional massages available from the spa. An array of cuisines are on offer in-house. Free WiFi, spa, pool, fitness, business. 63 Samsenthai Road, 021 218 800, laoplazahotel.com. Open 24 hours.

• VIENTIANE PLAZA HOTEL – Mid range. A top choice for business traveller and officials the Vientiane Plaza Hotel. For those looking for a business base while in town the convenient on-site office complex has hot desks and private spaces for rent. To unwind the fully-equipped fitness centre, tennis court and massage and spa centre are on hand. Spa, business. Sailom Road, Hatsady Neua Village, 020 2300 0433, vientianeplazalao.com. Open 24 hours.

• SALANA BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Top end. The grand façade of the Salana Boutique Hotel embodies sophistication and inside guests can escape the hustle and bustle and experience premier Lao hospitality. Designed to impress even the most discerning guests the ample rooms feature luxurious bedding and are tastefully decorated with Lao objects d’art. Free WiFi, spa, business. 112 Chao Anou Road, 021 254 254, salanaboutique.com. Open 24 hours

• MANDALA BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Mid range/boutique. A hip 1960s house turned hotel, the Mandala Boutique Hotel has operated under many guises but none as cool as this boutique stay. In recent years the villa has been refreshed with colourful modern rooms but the unique spirit of the structure has been retained. Stay in and experience the beautiful grounds at night at the open air Mandala Restaurant. Free WiFi, bicycles to rent, transfers. Baan Phiavat, 021 214 493, mandalahotel.asia. Open 24 hours.

• PHASOUK RESIDENCE – Mid range. Influenced by traditional Lao architecture Phasouk Residence offers carefully designed and decorated rooms that encapsulate warmth, comfort and relaxation. The specious deluxe suites feature plush king beds, elegant Lao objects and textiles and bay windows opening onto a private balconies. The cosier deluxe rooms offer similar understated elegance with double or twin beds. Free WiFI, spa, transfers. 57/4 Wat Xieng Gneun Road, 021 243 415, phasoukresidence.com. Open 24 hours.

• IHOUSE – Mid range. Situated behind the iconic Nam Phou Fountain, a popular gathering place in the heart of Vientiane, iHouse is the perfect option for those who want to stay where the action is without the usual city centre price tag. Tidy, colourful rooms come in a range of configurations from budget to deluxe, all rooms feature comfy queen beds. Free WiFi. 72/6 Pang Kham Street, 021 217 053, ihouse-laos.com. Open 24 hours.

SLEEP

VIENTIANE

Listing

• GREEN PARK BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Boutique. Each of the 34 rooms at this exquisite hotel pairs traditional Lao-style orientation with fine contemporary architecture. The elegance of the interiors, both historic and modern, matched with the lush garden setting create a sophisticated blend of style, luxury and relaxing accommodation. Free WiFi, spa, pool, fitness, city shuttle. 12 Khouvieng Road, 021 264 097, greenparkvientiane.com. Open 24 hours. Restaurant open 7 days 11.30am – 2.30pm, 6.30pm – 10.30pm.

• ANSARA HOTEL – Boutique. Tucked down a leafy laneway this boutique destination will delight even the most discerning guests. An elegant hideaway in the bustling city centre the 14 rooms, with private balconies looking onto manicured tropical gardens, exude understated colonial charm. In this location you’ll be surrounded by countless dining options but with excellent in-house restaurant La Signature at hand you won’t need to look far for exquisite epicure. Free WiFi, breakfast included, business. Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha, 021 213 514, ansarahotel.com. Open 24 hours.

| Green Park Boutique Hotel |

| Ansara Hotel |

| Ansara Hotel |

| Salana Boutique Hotel |

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VIENTIANE

• SETTHA PALACE HOTEL – Top end. This remarkable hotel is housed in a 1930s mansion which has been restored to its former imperial glory capturing an era of classic elegance, gracious service and French colonial sophistication. Light-filled rooms enjoy high ceilings and elegant touches like four-poster beds with down feather pillows and hardwood floors. Free WiFi, pool, breakfast included, business. 6 Pang Kham Street, 021 217 581, setthapalace.com. Open 24 hours.

• AUBERGE SALA INPENG – Mid range. If you’re looking to get back to nature the nine private bungalows surrounded by tranquil tropical gardens at Auberge Sala Inpeng might just do the trick. Situated in the Inpeng Temple Area of Vientiane you’d never know the riverfront and bustling city are right at your doorstep. The bungalows are designed like traditional timber Lao houses and are completed with comfortable furnishings, air-conditioning and private bathrooms. 63/6 Inpeng Street, Ban Wat Chanh, 021 242 021, salalao.com/Sala_Inpeng/Content/Inpeng.htm. Open 24 hours.

• VIENTIANE GARDEN HOTEL – Mid range. Situated in a peaceful corner of the city this small hotel offers contemporary-styled rooms surrounding a tranquil swimming pool and gardens. A truly modern experience each spacious room is complete with comfy beds, newly renovated bathrooms, LCD televisions and slick decor. The dedicated and professional staff will go out of their way to make your stay in Vientiane a special one. Free WiFi, pool. 56 Sihome Road, Ban Sihome, 021 241 963, vientianegardenhotel.com. Open 24 hours.

• DON CHAN PALACE, HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTRE – Top end. Commanding attention from its location on the edge of the majestic Mekong River, Don Chan Palace offers sweeping views of Vientiane and northern Thailand. Each room, from the Classic to the Presidential Suite has been designed for comfort and convenience with plush beds, luxurious bathtubs and quality amenities. Sporting, leisure and dining facilities are first rate. Free WiFi, spa, pool, fitness, business, shuttle service. Unit 6 Piwat Village, Sisatanak District, 021 244 288, donchanpalacelaopdr.com. Open 24 hours.

• RASHMI’S PLAZA HOTEL – Top end. A stylish and modern luxury hotel with easy access to the city centre and cultural and tourist sites. Guest rooms offer a range of accommodation options from cosy to decadent elegance and each room is a unique space specifically crafted to meet the tastes of guests with modern furnishings and stylish finishing touches. Free WiFi, pool, spa, fitness. Thadeua Road, Ban Beungkhayong-Tai, 021 315 088, rashmishotel.com. Open 24 hours.

• PARKVIEW EXECUTIVE SUITES – Top end. Perfect for an extended stay Parkview offers well-appointed serviced apartments in studio, one or two bedroom configurations. Situated in downtown Vientiane with easy access to Wattay International Airport Parkview offers modern amenities to the business travelled will a fully equipped meeting room and business centre. Top of the range recreational facilities include immaculate tennis courts, swimming pool, fitness centre, sauna and Jacuzzi. Luang Prabang Road, 021 250 888, parkviewexecutive.com. Open 24 hours.

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

6 Pang Kham Street, Vientiane, Lao PDRTel: (856) 21-217581/2 • Fax: (856) 21-217583

A Belmont International Hotel

Vientiane’s Only Historical Luxury Hotel

| Settha Palace Hotel |

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• LE SEN BOUTIQUE HOTEL – Top end. Just a 15 minute stroll from old Luang Prabang but from Le Sen’s lush secluded gardens the city centre will feel a world away. Polished stone and neutral palettes create a slick yet soothing contemporary ambience to the 19 spacious rooms, each of which come with private balconies that overlook a central swimming pool. Free WiFi, pool, fitness, shuttle service to city centre. 113 Manomai Road, Ban Mano, 071 261 668, lesenhotel.com. Open 24 hours.

• THE APSARA – Boutique. A truly beautiful experience in Luang Prabang, The Apsara cultivates a sense of effortless elegance from the banks of the Nam Khan. Colonial charm meets luxe cool in each of the spacious bedrooms with crisp linens, traditional silks, quirky objects d’art with balconies and terraces overlooking the river. If you’re looking to spend your holiday poolside the equally captivating sister hotel The Apsara Rive Droite is just across the river. Free WiFi, breakfast inclusive. Ban Phanluang, 071 254 252, theapsara.com. Open 24 hours.

SLEEP ListingSLEEP Listing

LUANG PRABANG

• 3 NAGAS HOTEL – Boutique. An intimate and charming boutique hotel situated on Luang Prabang’s main street across three heritage UNESCO-protected buildings. Each of the 15 rooms embodies simple and traditional sophistication with exotic hardwood floors, torchis walls and clay roof tiles. A range of configurations offer king and twin beds and you can opt for exclusive airport transfers and city tours in one of two immaculate vintage cars. Free WiFi, breakfast inclusive. Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong, 071 253 888, 3-nagas.com. Open 24 hours.

• VILLA MALY HOTEL – Top end. A residence of charm, 33 art deco-inspired rooms are housed in seven low-rise buildings on this sprawling estate, just a short walk from the historic heart of the city. Each room is furnished with a blend of French and British colonial touches including classic adornments like hardwood floors, ornate rugs and old-world armchairs and with pool and garden views has the feel of staying in a private villa. Free WiFi, spa, pool. BP 158, 071 253 902, villa-maly.com. Open 24 hours.

• OCK POP TOK MEKONG VILLA – Mid range/Boutique. Nestled on the banks of the Mekong River, award-winning textile centre Ock Tok Pop have created a truly relaxing and unique stay in a tropical paradise. Each of the four rooms combines contemporary design with colourful tribe motifs and the two Mekong facing rooms offer unrivalled views of the river. A free shuttle service will take you into town. Free WiFi, breakfast inclusive. Ban Saylom (opposite Phousi market), 071 212 597, ockpoptok.com. Open 24 hours.

| Le Sen Boutique Hote |

• SATRI HOUSE – Boutique. Located in the heart of the city, Satri House was built at the turn of the last century as the residence of Price Soupha-nouvong. It has been restored to its original elegance and is now renowned as one of the most exquisite structures in the city. Superior crafted wood furnishings are an ambient addition to each of the 31 rooms which feature generous balconies that look onto the manicured grounds. Free WiFi, pool, spa. 57 Photisarath Road, Ban Thatluang, 071 253 491, satrihouse.com. Open 24 hours. .

| 3 Nagas Hotel |

| Satri House |

| Ock Pop Tok Mekong Villa |

| Ock Pop Tok Mekong Villa |

| Villa Maly Hotel |

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12 Khouvieng Rd, Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR

Phone: +856 21 26 4097Fax: +856 21 26 3064

Email : [email protected]

Ban Viengkeo, Vang ViengVientiane Province, Lao PDRPhone: +856 (0)23 511 726-8Fax: +856 (0)23 511 729Email: [email protected]

Riverside Boutique Resort, Vang Vieng - The Charm of Tradition on the Bank of the Nam Song

Green Park Boutique Hotel - Elegance and Timeless Comfort in the Heart of Vientiane

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SLEEP Listing

• WATERFALL RESORT BAN E-TU PAKSONG – Mid range. A small cluster of charming bungalows on the site of a former coffee and tea plantation just outside of Paksong. A perfect spot for rest and relaxation if you’re travelling through the Bolaven Plateau, the resort offers spotless private villas with helpful staff who can guide you on what to see, do and eat in the area. The restaurant serves traditional Lao fare made from fresh local ingredients. 020 2866 2809, waterfalletupaksong.com.

• PAKSE HOTEL – Mid range. The first multistorey building constructed under the supervision of the last King of Southern Laos, this hotel was originally the entertainment hub of Pakse housing a casino and cinema. Now owned and run by a French-Lao couple the hotel blends local influences with French Indochina spirit with cosy rooms and excellent service. Street 5, Ban Watkouang, 031 212 131, hotelpakse.com. Open 24 hours.

• SINOUK COFFEE RESORT – Mid range. Two chalets nestled amongst of the famous Sinouk Coffee plantation and manicured gardens. Guests have the choice to stay alongside a bubbling river and small waterfall at Chalet I or closer to the plantation in Chalet II, each bungalow contains spotless private ensuite bedrooms and a shared lounge and living room and terrace but it’s so peaceful here you’d barely know you had any neighbours. Tatheng – Bolaven Plateau, [email protected], sinoukcoffeeresort.com.

SAVANNAKHET

• SALA SAVANH – Mid range. Housed in a renovated 1920s colonial building Sala Savanh sits pretty in the heart of Savannakhet historical centre. Five superior rooms are neat and tidy with high ceilings, vintage-look cane furniture and spacious balconies on the upper floor. Free WiFi. 020 5564 5111, [email protected], salalao.com/Salalao/Content/Savanh.htm.

• LEENA GUESTHOUSE – Mid range. A friendly option if you’re passing through Savannakhet, Leena’s is a little off the main drag but you can rent a bike for a quick ride. There’s a variety of tidy rooms on offer for different price ranges so ask to take a look at what’s available to find one that’s right for you and your travelling budget, service is super friendly so they will be happy to help. Close to a number of cheap eats, internet cafes and the Mekong River. Free WiFi. Chaokeem Road, 020 9927 4994, leenaguesthouse.blogspot.com.

PAKSE

| Sinouk Coffee Resort |

• RIVERSIDE BOUTIQUE RESORT – Top end/Boutique. A tropical oasis nestled on the banks of the Nam Song River, Riverside Boutique Resort is a stylishly modern haven in Vang Vieng. Each of the 34 spacious suites are elegantly furnished with artworks and decors inspired by several ethnic groups of Laos, pairing perfectly with contemporary comforts like luxurious bedding and high-end amenities. The pristine swimming pool and the in-house restaurant and bar take in unparalleled views of the river and its sweeping mountainscapes. Gift shop, pool. Ban Viengkeo, 023 511 726-8, riversidevangvieng.com.

• INTHIRA VANG VIENG – Mid range. A beautiful Lao-style vil la located in the heart of Vang Vieng – just steps away from all of the local highlights. The 28 well-appointed rooms come in a range of configurations to suit everyone from the comfort-seeker to the budget-conscious traveller. An airy rooftop terrace, complete with sun lounges, is the perfect spot to admire the surrounding ancient limestone mountain vistas. On-site eatery ‘The Kitchen’ serves up hearty local and international fare. Free WiFi. Ban Savang, 023 511 070, inthira.com.

• THE ELEPHANT CROSSING HOTEL – Boutique. Set along the Nam Song River, complete with breathtaking views of Vang Vieng’s majestic natural surrounds is The Elephant Crossing Hotel. A charming getaway, this hotel offers guests 31 rooms, all designed with comfort, elegance and convenience in mind. In addition to classic hardwood floors and spacious en suite facilities, each room features a generous private balcony which looks directly onto the river and mountains. Ban Viengkeo, 023 511 232, theelephantcrossinghotel.com.

VANG VIENG| Riverside Boutique Resort |

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MAP OF

VIENTIANE

As the nation's capital, Vientiane is a must-experience city when traveling through Laos. Vientiane became the capital in 1563 because of fears surrounding Burmese invasion. Under French rule, it became the administrative capital and in recent times the city has emerged as the country's economic hub. Sitting on the northern banks of the Mekong river, the city has a colourful culture, amazing hospitality and is home to an enviable local and international dining scene. With its French colonial characteristics and leafy boulevards surrounded by rustic temples and coconut palms, this is a city that mixes colonial architecture with a tropical environment. The laidback atmosphere is ideal for visitors, and it is rapidly becoming one of the most fascinating cities to see in Asia.

Vientiane

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