special feature RIVERSIDE BOUTIQUE RESORT
ENTRANCED IN LAOS RIVERSIDE BOUTIQUE RESORT celebrates the ethnic and natural diversity of Laos
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aos is a Southeast Asian country located between Burma, China, Vietnam and Cambodia. With 16 provinces that stretch 1,162 km to the north and south, it has seven million inhabitants that come from 49 officially recognized ethnic groups and four main language families. These 49 different ethnic groups found in Laos have very different customs, religions, and lifestyles—all best experienced through an appreciation of their local products, handicrafts, and arts. Riverside Boutique Resort is the first luxury hotel that promotes and celebrates the exceptional diversity of Laos through its design, décor, and services. Located on the banks of the Nam Song River, the Riverside Boutique Resort is set against a tropical garden and a central swimming pool. Its 34 rooms and suites, as well as the restaurant and the bar, offer stunning views over the limestone mountains of Vang Vieng. The resort is designed by award-winning architect Sakpaseuth Phanrajsavong, while prominent Lao artists and artisans have contributed their talents in order to showcase various aspects of the country’s beauty and traditions. The rooms feature original decors inspired by eight ethnic groups: the Akha, Hmong, Katu, Lanten, Lao-Lum, Tai Deng, Tai Leu, and Yao.
which are made of hemp, painted with beeswax, then dyed with indigo.. The ink drawings in the rooms, by renowned artist Mick Saylom, illustrate a traditional village. These details create a unique and authentic atmosphere that allows guests to fully experience what makes Laos such a special country. Although the Riverside Boutique Resort reflects the wealth and elegance of its Lao heritage, it also strives to provide international-level services. It is an ideal destination to spend a few days between Luang Prabang and Vientiane, for tourists as well as city dwellers. n
For instance, the bed runners, pillows, and curtains of the Hmong Rooms are all handmade in Hmong villages using traditional materials and techniques. They are based on traditional batiks,
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THE RIVERSIDE BOUTIQUE RESORT Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng, Lao PDR Tel. (856)(0) 23 511 726-8 info@riversidevangvieng.com www.riversidevangvieng.com FEBRUARY-MARCH 2013