Highlights of Laos & Cambodia

Immerse yourself in Khmer culture while exploring Cambodia and witness the infectious beat of a traditional Hmong dance in Laos. You’ll soon be hooked on two of Southeast Asia’s greatest treasures.

From the cultural heritage still evident in Siem Reap to one of the greatest manmade wonders of the world, Angkor Wat, Cambodia is a spectacular adventure in itself. However, Laos is easily visited in the same trip. Once you see the rolling plains and beaming smiles of the locals you’ll never want to leave these two Southeast Asian paradises.

Cambodia for nature lovers

A half or full-day cruise on Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, is a must-do, especially if you’re looking to get away from the tourist route in Cambodia. Tonle Sap was made a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1997 and more than one million people now live around the lake. Tonle Sap’s fisheries also supply roughly 80 per cent of all protein consumed in Cambodia.

If nature is your thing, a safari at the Prek Toal bird sanctuary, at the northwest tip of the lake, offers a view of over 120 species of birds including ibises, storks and pelicans.

Luxury in Phnom Penh

A visit to Phnom Penh’s Raffles also means a trip to a colonial-era classic, although the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, with its golden sparkling Buddha covered in 10,000 diamonds, is perhaps even more breathtaking. Opt for a private sunset cruise on the Mekong, with cocktails and city views, or head to Cambodia’s most decadent dining experience at the French Restaurant 102.

To see the top collection of Khmer sculpture and art in the world, don’t miss a private guide to the fascinating National Museum with exhibits from the Angkor period as well as the 4th century. The impressive Foreign Correspondents Club on Sisowath Quay offers great riverside views and some of the best food in Cambodia.

Siem Reap sightseeing in style

In Siem Reap, hire a private guide to make the most of an exploration of the magnificent 12th century Angkor Wat, the largest and best preserved of the Angkor temples. For an even more rewarding experience we can help arrange a guide to take you around one of Siem Reap’s orphanages, run by an NGO to help improve the lives of less privileged Cambodian children.

If you’re keen to explore further afield we can arrange a visit to Kbal Spean, a beautiful riverbed known as ‘The River of a Thousand Lingas’. The river is thought to be magical thanks to the presence of numerous birds and butterflies, as well as mysterious stone carvings of Hindu deities and lingas.

Cuisine and culture in Luang Prabang, Laos

Situated in a pretty setting surrounded by forested mountains and verdant green planes, the sacred city of Luang Prabang with its smiling, saffron-robed monks and sparkling golden temples is a must-see. Soak up a traditional Baci ceremony or learn the secrets of tasty Lao cuisine with a trip to Phou Si Market and a cooking class.

Take part in a silk dying class and visit the ethnic minorities of Northern Laos at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, where you can even make your own hand-dyed silk scarf and become the envy of all your friends.

Cycling and trekking in Ban Long Lao

There’s nothing like a good bike ride to get you into the heart of a new culture. South of Luang Prabang, Laos is a great place for keen cyclists. We can help you arrange a fantastic tour on two wheels to Ban Thin Som. From there, you can start a trek to a traditional Kamu village, tuck into a delicious lunch and then soak up some spectacular views on a mountain hike.

Trips can be as challenging or relaxing as you like, although a traditional Hmong dance and dinner in the evening at the home of the village leader will really be something to write home about. You will have seen a part of Laos that few people get to experience.

Contact Concierge Traveller specialists on 1800 047 047 for more luxury options in Laos and Cambodia, and explore Southeast Asia in style.

View holiday ideas in Cambodia

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