What can you do in Laos?

Buddhist temple in Luang Phrabang, northern Laos. Nation Photo/Phoowadon Duangmee

Q: I'm going to Laos early September and have roughly 15 days to travel around the country. I'd like to keep my itinerary flexible and focus predominantly on northern Laos.

My current plan is to visit Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Your suggestions on the best itinerary would help me complete my planning. Thanks in advance, Spafanie

A: I'd recommend starting off in Vientiane then heading to the former capital of Luang Prabang. The city is popular and still charming though it's getting more crowded as development continues apace. However, Luang Prabang is considered a must-see for every first-time visitor to the country. Most over¬land travellers stop in Vang Vieng on the way to Luang Prabang. It's is a good base for a few days with plenty to do in the surrounding countryside including rock climbing, tubing, kayaking, biking and trekking.

I would certainly recommend a bus trip from Vang Vieng to Phonsovan to see the Plain of Jars. It's worth stopping here for a day or two before going on to Luang Prabang.

From the old capital take a boat to Nong Kiaw and enjoy some incredible scenery along the way. I went further up river to Muang Ngoi and found a great little village, extremely friendly locals as well as good hiking opportunities.

If you are into trekking, I would recommend you head west to Luang Namtha or continue further north to Muang Sing. From there, many people head towards China, or keep going west and enter northern Thailand via Bo Kao.

These suggestions offer you plenty of options for a 15day trip to northern Laos. If you need more info, let me know. Bon voyage!