LUANG SAY “Northern Jewels” The cruising of 2days/1night between Chiangrai and Luang Prabang with an overnight in our LuangSay Lodge in Pakbeng.

A certain aura of timelessness and romance pervades the Mekong and a trip down its banks is one of enchantment and mystery. Luang Say Cruise offers a different way to explore Laos which was once known as the Land of a Million Elephants.

THE LUANG SAY CRUISE

Gliding effortlessly across currents and along pristine forests, the Luang Say boat is a purpose-built 34 metre luxury river barge, a stylish replica of the journey craft famous to these waters. Long scenic stretches of breezy, sun soaked river cruising are punctuated by visits to river-side hilltribe villages and the magical Tham Thing Caves of a Thousand Buddhas. In between the two days on the river, the Luang Say Lodge at Pakbeng offers a charming and serene riverside stay, a perfect romantic interlude in this unspoiled wilderness setting.

ITINERARY
- Day 1: Houeisay - Pakbeng. Early morning, set out on a leisurely cruise to Pakbeng, with lunch onboard and hilltribe village stops along the way. A sunset arrival at Pakbeng is followed by a succulent dinner of traditional Northern Lao food and an enchanting stay at Luang Say Lodge.

- Day 2: Pakbeng - Luang Prabang. Breakfast at the lodge, then cruise towards the mouth of the Nam Ou River. Enjoy lunch onboard, before exploring the Tham Thing Caves. Visit a local hilltribe village to sample its rice whiskey, then arrive late- afternoon at Luang Prabang.

Note: The above itinerary is also offered in reverse and as a 1 day 1 night trip beginning from the Luang Say Lodge in Packbaeng – access either by boat or road.

LUANG SAY LODGE
A stay at the Luang Say Lodge is worth the trip itself. Built on the shores of the Mekong in the traditional Lao style of solid wood, this elegantly appointed lodge features:

- 16 pavilions with a total of 19 rooms and 38 beds
- 180 degree open-shudder window views of the lush riverside gardens
and Mekong valley
- Private shower bathrooms with western toilets and hot water
- Individual fans and mosquito netting
- A restaurant terrace overlooking the Mekong

LUANG SAY BOATS
The safety and comfort of the Luang Say boats are truly the envy of all other river travellers in the region as they provide the perfect setting for leisurely river travel. With 34 metre steel hulls, they feature:

- Modern safety equipment and lifejackets
- A capacity of 40 comfortable seats each, with an open air vista and
lounge furniture
- Ample luggage space and porters
- Games and reading materials
- Immaculately clean western style toilets
- A fully-stocked bar