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Laos' capital, Vientiane, is known for its nooks and crannies that overflow with delightful dining spots and boutiques, yet also for its quiet, historical streets. Ansara truly offers the best of both worlds: tucked into a peaceful lane in the city centre, its on the doorstep of all our favourite attractions (the Mekong River and the night market at the top of the charts), yet offers a cool, calm and collected haven to return to at the end of the day. One of the prettiest hotels in Vientiane, the decor is chic and stylish - and the outdoor pool will become your best friend on a hot, summer's afternoon...
From $130 person/night
The food! La Signature restaurant has been busy making its name as one of the city's favourite restaurants since it opened in 2010. On warm nights, the terrace is the perfect spot for dinner.
Honeymooners and those looking to up the charm should book the Impeng Suite. With its spacious rooms and private jacuzzi, it's perfectly romantic.
Whilst there is a two bedroom suite which accommodates families, Ansara is probably best suited to adults and couples.
Combing a modern exterior with a perfectly charming interior, Ansara harks back to the city's history with its stylish colonial decor - think polished wooden floorboards, enormous windows, and plenty of lush tropical foliage adorning the flowerbeds. The newly-built pool is an idyllic place to idle away a few hours on a hot day or after a busy morning on the city streets, and the restaurant, La Signature, is fantastic, with dishes inspired by both local and French techniques on offer.
There are just 24 rooms and four suites at this boutique spot, each designed in a simple but sophisticated blend of traditional Asian and Laotian influences. Beds are bedecked with hand-woven silk headboards, and plenty of stylish rattan furniture sits atop the hardwood floors. All rooms and suites enjoy a private balcony, ensuite bathroom and WiFi. The suites have more space for lunging, and if you're travelling as a family or in a group, the Suite Mixay has two bedrooms.
Vientiane is packed with temples, or wats as they are known, and the best way to see them is to strap on your shoes and start walking. Go with a guide if you have a specific interest in mind, or simply set off by yourself and see where you end up. If you prefer to travel on two wheels, ask the hotel to arrange a cycling tour, or, for something different, try a cookery class or a full-day orchid trek with a botanical specialist. Talat Sao, the morning market, is also an excellent excursion and packed full of local art and textiles.
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