Joanna James
Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers, Luang Prabang in northern Laos is renowned for its captivating beauty. Encircled by lush green mountains and French colonial architecture lining its streets, the city will not fail to keep you on the edge of your toes. Apart from its breathtaking surroundings and bustling city life, Luang Prabang is also a shopaholic’s paradise. So, grab your wallet and get ready to embark on the shopping expedition of a lifetime!
Shop, eat and converse the night away at the Luang Prabang Night Market. Sharpen your haggling skills and stroll past the lively stalls settled underneath bright red tents. Splurge on a wide array of crafts ranging from hand-woven clothing and artisanal jewellery to cultural paintings and unique home decorations made of bamboo. If you are looking for a place to crash as the night comes to a close, fear not because Avani Luang Prabang is just around the corner.
Awaking at the crack of dawn to head to the morning market will certainly be worth your while. Feast your eyes on the abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices and herbs. You might also be lucky enough to get your hands on some seasonal fruits like papayas, mangoes and lychees. Take your trip a step further and stop by the morning market for breakfast. You could savour a range of dishes including sticky rice, noodle soups and grilled meat. Having breakfast at this morning market will offer you with a unique experience compared to dining at a hotel in Luang Prabang, Laos.
Luang Prabang, known for its specialty it traditional silk weaving is home to a few villages that offer a glimpse into the skills harboured within the region. One such village is Ban Xang Khong, which is not only popular for its silk weaving but also its papermaking. Observe as the villagers use traditional techniques to spin the silk threads, die them and weave them into intricate patterns. Several shops offer these finished products for sale in the form of silk shawls, scarves and other garments. You could also shop for products made of the Saa paper crafted by the locals.
Bibliophiles are sure to look for the best bookstores in Luang Prabang. To enhance your stay in the city, grab a travel guide or even a map from the Book House, located in Kitsalat Road. You will also find piles of books embedded with knowledge on the culture and history of Luang Prabang. One of these books might even serve as the perfect souvenir to take back home with you! If you are, however, hoping to sip a cup of coffee while being buried between the pages of a book, L’Etranger Books & Tea is just the place for you! This cozy bookshop also allows you to take your pick and purchase from a selection of second-hand books in multiple languages.
Luang Prabang presents you with a marvellous mix of contemporary Lao fashion, art and craftsmanship. For handmade textiles, accessories and home decorations, Ma Te Sai would be the perfect place for you to empty your wallet. Similarly, if you choose to shop at Caruso Lao, you will find a wide array of stylish clothing, accessories and jewellery that have been carefully crafted to reflect a blend of local traditions and modern aesthetics.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
