Luang Prabang in Laos is a beguiling city forgotten by time. The city has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site for its buildings that have remained unchanged since the turn of the century. There is only one high rise building of four floors in the area.
A five star experience awaits guests returning from their days of exploring this abundant region in the plush and pampering hotel, Kiridara Luang Prabang.
There’s so much to do in the area. Luang Prabang is home to ancient Buddhist temples, sites and monasteries that boast a rich cultural heritage. Popular cultural experiences and activities include the night and morning markets, temples and alms giving.
Aside from the historical landmarks, visitors will be impressed by this picturesque part of Laos with such attractions as the Wat Xieng Thong, the Pak Ou Caves and the Kuang Si Waterfalls.
A short distance away from Luang Prabang on a hill facing the town is the Kiridara. From afar, Kiridara appears as a Swiss chalet. The hotel’s buildings are situated around the centre area in a V shape on the steep hillside. The deep brown wood and white structures with terracotta roofs contrast with the lush green and verdant jungle that surrounds the property.
As guests enter the property, a Zen like energy takes over. There are brilliantly coloured orchids and flower arrangements which greet them at every turn along with manicured green spaces of grass and trees. There are exposed rock walls with green ivy similar to what you would find in an old estate in London or a New England town and not in Indochina.
The centrepiece of the property is the infinity edge pool where guests are often seen leaning against the edge with a cocktail in hand looking at the sights of the city. It’s a beautiful pool fringed with fan palm trees, lounge chairs and a spacious sun deck lounge with chairs and couches and tables for taking lunch or dinner in the evening.
As mentioned, the villas and suites formed in a “V” shape surround the pool with decks and terraces ideal for sitting out and enjoy a morning coffee or a glass of wine in the evening. There are only 24 units so it’s an intimate boutique environment. The guests are as friendly as the staff and quick to say a hello or to share details of their day’s escapades or to ask about yours.
The accommodations are exquisite and spacious. The Deluxe Suite has a wonderful layout with a large comfy bed, and a full deck overlooking the pool and views of the town and mountains beyond. Rich teak wood floors and local artwork set the tone for the vacation experience. The centrepiece is the bathroom with large black granite tub. There is also a high back chair for reading and a large flat screen smart TV as well.
Phu Doi is their all day dining restaurant and features a good selection of Lao dishes and Mediterranean cuisine. The setting is tasteful with tables for groups or couches for couples. There are also tables on the terrace for dining al fresco. From the Mediterranean menu, the lamb chops with garlic and herb and four cheese risotto is an absolute must have. From the Lao side, I went with the mixed Lao starters which included duck spring rolls, mango salsa and BBQ Luang Prabang sausage. Very tasty indeed.
The Laotian Spa at Kiridara provides a calm retreat along with exceptional service. The spa is quite large for the size of the hotel and their staff is well trained and ready to take care of worn out bodies. The spa specializes in Thai, Balinese, Swiss and Lao treatments. The Herbal Joint Relief Massage is a welcome relief. They use a warm herbal press ball in between the massages so the heat sinks in to get to the root of soreness. This in addition to the stretching and massaging was just what I needed.
Kiridara has several villa residences away from the main property offering another level of comfort and accommodation. Guests receive their own personal butler to take care of their needs throughout their stay. The villas are large homes with the extra touch of in house chef-prepared meals. The main hotel’s facilities are also at the villa guest’s disposal with complimentary shuttles so guest can enjoy the pool, spa, and restaurant.
Kiridara Villa Mekong is a modern and impressive estate on the bank of the mighty Mekong River. Villa Mekong is composed of two detached Villas: a main Villa with three bedrooms while the second Villa has one bedroom.
The main villa has a magnificent open view of Mekong River from each room or from the large infinity edge pool perched above the river itself. There is a large terrace jutting over the hillside and river that is perfect for family gatherings or social events at sunset.
The Family Suite consists of a king-size bed and an ensuite bathroom as well as a twin-sharing room with an attached bathroom. These rooms share the dining space located on the same upper floor. The smallest Loft Suite houses a king-size bed with an attached bathroom upstairs and living room and kitchen on the ground level.
The Honeymoon Suite is quite spacious and consists of a master bedroom with a king-size bed and an en suite bathroom upstairs. The living room and kitchen are located on the ground floor. The villas are inspired by the beautiful landscape with exceptionally stylish interiors. Bicycles are available for guests as are around-the-clock butler service, housekeeping and security services.
Kiridara Villa Ban Visoun and Kiridara Ban Kili are located within the old city centre of Luang Prabang and are a home away from home for guests looking for a customised and private stay.
Kiridara Villa Ban Kili is a traditional Lao wooden house centrally located within walking distance to all of the central Luang Prabang temples, markets and restaurants, and has direct access and panoramic views of the Nam Khan River.
The authentic traditional villa has two bedrooms with balcony and courtyard access.
Kitchen, dining and living spaces open onto a quaint palm-filled garden courtyard with sun loungers and outdoor dining facilities.
Kiridara is a fabulous hotel experience providing wonderful accommodation, meals, spa, and service. For those looking to check out all the wonders of Laos in and around Luang Prabang, The Kiridara is an excellent place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
Address: 22/13 North Road Ban Naviengkham, Luang Prabang, Laos
Phone: +856 71 261 888
snhcollection.com/kiridara/
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