They say it’s not where you are but who you’re with (and we’re pretty sure the latter is guaranteed), but when it comes to Laos, the where really makes for an unforgettable honeymoon. Remaining well off the tourist trail for decades, Laos has a unique brand of magic. Find it beside a turquoise waterfall in the forest, on a boat ride to pristine, untouched islands, or overlooking an ancient temple, the sunset flickering behind. Whether you would like to spend your honeymoon taking it easy or exploring every chance you get, Laos is the place to do it all. So, without further ado, take a look at our favourite Laos honeymoons and see what you fancy…
A honeymoon of highlights
After clinking glasses with your nearest and dearest, capital city Vientiane makes a picturesque start to your trip. You’ll get to know Laos at some of the country’s most beautiful temples, whether it’s ‘oohing’ and ‘aahing’ at the ancient Wat Sisaket or the glittering, golden stupa of the famous That Luang – and don’t miss out on a tuk tuk ride to Vientiane’s markets for a taste of its Sin Dat BBQ. After Vientiane, follow the great Mekong River to Champasak, a laidback spot with a fascinating history – the Wat Phou Ruins are said to be the blueprint for Cambodia’s iconic Angkor Wat. Then, boat across to the 4,000 Islands archipelago, a collection of tiny, sandy specks where traditional communities have made their home. Your honeymoon ends in Luang Prabang, a once-royal town where stunning temples, French villas and authentic bamboo houses line the streets. As for Luang Prabang’s natural beauty, there are fantastic trails into the hills and the stunning Kuang Si Waterfall is too tempting not to enjoy a dip or romantic picnic.
Top spots to stay
Start as you mean to go on, aka, feeling like royalty at the restored Settha Palace Hotel. Step straight into the heart of Vientiane from the doorstep, then return for cocktails at the Belle Epoque Bar. Tap into the natural pleasures of Champasak at an eco-minded river resort, where the Mekong is ready to sweep you off on an adventure and the infinity pool is the perfect spot for a lazy day. In Luang Prabang, the Sofitel hotel is an oasis with fabulous spa treatments and private pools.
Off-the-beaten-track adventure for two
Your ultimate destination is the mystical and wild north, but this trip begins with a little sightseeing in Vientiane, Laos’ capital. Stroll down palm-shaded boulevards, visit the serene temples – the Wat Si Saket is home to thousands of Buddhas – and seek out the tastiest street food. Trace the landscape dotted with cloud-encircled limestone peaks before arriving in Nong Khiaw, where you’ll float downriver on a bamboo raft, explore the labyrinth of caves, and cycle through villages with nary another soul in sight. Then, travel even further north through the shamrock-hued valleys to Muang La, where you’ll take in the scenery on hikes into the hills and respectful encounters with remote communities. Your Laos trip ends in Luang Prabang; delve into its 1,500-year-long history, see monks gathering alms in the early morning, and let the babble of rivers and waterfalls be a lasting memory as you jet home.
Top spots to stay
In Vientiane, Ansara is a firm favourite – it’s home to one of the city’s finest restaurants – and the Impeng Suite is perfect for honeymooners with a private Jacuzzi and beautiful interiors. In Nong Khiaw, Mandala Ou is as authentic as they come. Sitting quite literally on the river banks, it’s got plenty of rustic charm and a location made for exploring. The Muang La Resort is ensconced by mountains and rivers, meaning adventure is at your fingertips, but their spring-fed spa and pool may just claim your attention. End at the uber-stylish Rosewood in Luang Prabang, a hotel with all the bells and whistles including five-course dinners and tented suites amidst the tree canopy.
Laos & Cambodia: the best of both
Skip the big cities and swap them for a trip through two pint-sized countries, Cambodia and Laos, where life is lived at the river’s edge, the scenery is serenity incarnate, and there’s never a reason to rush. Begin in Luang Prabang, Laos’ cultural heart where royal relics, vivid temples and easygoing bicycle rides are the order of the day. Make your way along the Mekong to Champasak, home to the fascinating Wat Phou Ruins, and stroll through the town’s colourful markets, sail amidst the untouched 4,000 Islands archipelago or explore on a kayak keeping your eyes peeled for endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. Next up is Siem Reap, a buzzing city most famously known as the gateway to Angkor Wat, the largest religious complex in the world. You’ll have ample time to walk, awestruck, past its great temples and take in the sense of gravitas, peace and history. Round things off with a few days of R&R in Kep where the hours move at a sedate pace and the sunsets are heavenly.
Top spots to stay
In between explorations in Luang Prabang, lay your head at the luxe Belmond La Résidence and enjoy the fabulous views of Mount Phousi and dreamy spa treatments. Make your Champasak visit extra memorable at La Folie Lodge, which sits on the hushed Don Daeng Island and offers the utmost privacy. An oasis just outside of Siem Reap, Phum Baitang Resort is a haven with an Angkor-inspired spa and fabulous cuisine – we’d definitely plump for a villa with a private plunge pool and sala. In Kep, Knai Bang Chatt offers a little slice of paradise with a bevy of water activities, topped off with dinner à deux on the jetty.
The gems of Thailand, Laos & Cambodia
Add the enthralling sights of Thailand and the soul of Cambodia to your Laos trip for the experience of a lifetime. Touch down in Thailand’s bright, buzzing capital, Bangkok, where mega-watt hotels rub shoulders with serene temples, the cuisine is lip-smacking, and a long-tail boat along the River of Kings is the perfect way to settle in. Journey north to pretty-as-a-picture Chiang Mai, where you’ll take bike rides to the sacred ruins and wander through lively markets. A couple of valleys over, Chiang Rai is charming and authentic with stunning temples, ancient hill tribes and special moments spent at the nearby elephant sanctuary. Then, hop aboard a cruise along the Mekong River and discover all Luang Prabang has to offer. For history buffs, there is centuries of it on display, and if adventure is on your mind, there‘s hiking galore too. Your final stop is Siem Reap and the poignant, powerful ruins of Angkor. Trust us, your camera will be full and you’ll have plenty to tell the grandkids…
Top spots to stay
On the banks of the Chao Praya River, The Siam is a designer dream with sunset dinners on the pier, private pools – and a butler to top it all off. The chic Four Seasons in Chiang Mai is unmatched when it comes to food, spa treatments and glorious seclusion, whilst the Anantara Golden Triangle Camp brings style and charisma to a truly remote location – elephants even wander past the rooms. You’ll be well taken care of by Amantaka in Luang Prabang, before you end with gorgeous interiors and alfresco bathtubs at Shinta Mani Angkor, a fantastic choice in Siem Reap.
