Sabaidee - Lao lifestyle & travel magazine issue 27 by Sabaidee Magazine

 

GETTING AROUND THE LOCAL WAY

The illustrious orchid of Laos Historic Manila Traveling with Kids

DIRECTOR’s NOT



  gzY'    j         co,

 y s,6jgdkt8jk'Mmk'            

  U r;dgIqkdjk;g4y'    dko0v'7qomhv'4yjogxaojg-ajo     fe]q'-u;yf1jk'.fD 

 z6hveo;pdko Sabaidee readers!

This issue we take you to a sanctuary for the elegant Orchid. It is where Vientiane magically turns from chaotic city to sleepy village as you reach the orchid gardens and propagation centre. Whether you are a plant lover or a peace seeker surely this is a beautiful retreat from the busy streets where you can relax while listening to the birds and gazing up at grand trees. In ASEAN Connect, we explore the busy capitol city of the Philippines, Manila. It is taken for granted and used only as a transit point en route to the country’s white sand beach islands and other historical cities. But tucked away within this bustling, chaotic metropolitan megacity is a wealth of history, colorful multi-cultural heritage, and plenty of attractions worthy of exploration.

How the locals get around. For this cover story, you get to see how the local Lao people move around the town. Bicycles, old motorbikes or a plow towing a cart. Some of these motorbikes have been running for decades. We take you for a ride along with the locals to see how they do it. Please enjoy reading along in this issue.

Phanhlakhone Syboonheung The Director

CON TEN S

MAY 2015 ISSUE # 27

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GETTING AROUND THE LOCAL WAY

The illustrious orchid of Laos Historic Manila Traveling with Kids

ON THE COVER GETTING AROUND THE LOCAL WAY

PEOPLE NEWS & EVENTS 10 What’s On 16 Lao Skyway 40 Beer Singha

12 Sabaidee Guest Mr. Sisombat DOUANGVILAYKEO

TRAVEL 24 ASEAN Connect | Manila 30 Cover Story GETTING AROUND THE LOCAL WAY

LIFESTYLE 18 Travel Feature | The illustrious orchid of Laos 41 Sabaidee’s Guide To | 10 Tips For Traveling with Kids 48 Eat, Drink, Wellness, See & Do, Shop, Sleep

CONTRIBUTORs

Gaid Phitthayakornsilp

Anousone Vongphrachanh

Gaid has been in the media industry since he graduated from Faculty of Art at Silpakorn University in Thailand in 1994. He was a part of the filmmaking crew in several household name movies, a screen writer for documentary programs and a columnist for a daily newspaper in Thailand. He is now a travel writer/photographer, a graphic designer, a translator, and travel editor for several publications.

After spending most of his earlier years in the United States, Anousone Vongphrachanh decided to return to his native born country of Laos PDR. He is an outdoor person at heart. When he is not trekking or snowboarding, he is exploring for good food experiences whether it is fine dining or street side food carts.

Kate Bavister After travelling to Laos in 2013 and living in South Laos for a while, Kate now lives in Vientiane. She loves to walk often taking her camera for company. When at home she spends time painting, writing and illustrating her children’s book. She also loves plants.

Michelle Luehman Michelle has spent the last 20 years living and working around the world. Most of that time has been spent around Asia. An avid observer of people and places, she has written extensively about life in Asia both as a visitor and a resident. She has worked for lifestyle and travel magazines around the globe capturing the essence and flavor of life in each different locality.

jConsultants Pattarapong Kongvijit Manachai Inkaew  Director Phanhlakhone

Syboonheung

 Editorial Director Gaid Phitthayakornsilapa Lao Editor  Khamsouan Chanthalat  English Editor  Anousone Vongphrachanh

Justin Spelman An avid traveler and adventurous foodie,Justin has explored and worked on three different continents in the last 20 years. With a background in optical engineering, he has been working on science education initiatives in the Lao PDR since 2007.

 Sales & Marketing Director  Chayada Ariyaphoncharoen  Marketing Executive Soudthidaphone Phetpada  Reporter Thepphavongsone Bouapha  Layout Design Soukthavone

Thanomenon

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]k; v=fy3v 8hvoIa[8q;cmo Accuphase 9kdxtgmfpux5jo         Accuphase =   Accuphase       Accuphase   Accuphase, Tannoy, Boulder Audio Note   Accuphase  E-407  C-37Phono   M-6200 F DC-37  DG-58       Accuphase

         F      T4       021 454 254

Reverie Saigon Hotel Opening in the first half of 2015, the 286-room Reverie Saigon commands the upper and lower floors of a contemporary, 39-storey tower in Ho Chi Minh City and an emerging reputation as the boldest expression of opulence to debut in Vietnam, ever. With frontage on Saigon’s two most storied avenues, Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Boulevard, The Reverie beats at the heart of the city’s prestigious central urban area - District 1. As in Hong Kong’s Central, London’s Knightsbridge and New York’s Midtown, if it’s happening in Saigon, it’s happening in ‘D1’. www.thereveriesaigon.com

“Partitions animales” A lacquer painting exhibition at the French Institute The French Institute in Vientiane will host an exhibition by Marie-Dominique Hyman-Boneu, a French lacquer artist based in Laos since 2010. Since her last exhibition ‘Ephemere’ at i:cat gallery in November 2012, she chose to represent animals present in the Laotian fauna: Elephants, butterflies and dried fish: each animal is a starting point for a series of pictures and a subject for graphic or chromatic research. She reframes her subjects in increasingly tighter close-ups, obtaining abstract compositions reflecting the specific qualities of the animal in question. Opening June 10th at 6:00pm French Institute, Vientiane, 10-26th June 2015 www.mdolacquer.com

 4G LTE         4GLTE                       4G       y          Data4G                4G   

  Swensens Mango Cake

                             

   d                                          

                                            11

mjko   

    di5[     di5[                o      s];'rt[k'    Ia        di5[

uj           8A'c8jx{   [=]ylafmq;                    ig;]  II     3I'cI, g]

              GPS    lj;o  GM 

  

         j  [a   s]kp           ig;]   g]   0v'mjko                           bj                       6            {    {    Ij   lk0k    12

Mr. Sisombat Douangvilaykeo, a young and ambitious Lao businessman with one mission, to offer the best travel products, highest levels of service and competitive pricing in Laos.

find people with skills and experience to come and assist. Based on the characteristics of my business, I employ the following positions: 1. General Manager, 2. Marketing, 3. HR and Administration Manager in order to generally direct the business in order to be ready for current conditions where competition is strong and economic conditions change.

4. In all of your companies: hotels, resorts, elephant camps, tour companies, vehicle rentals that you have done, which do you think is the most difficult type of business? I think that doing all types of business in Laos is quite difficult, especially in Luang Prabang, because we do not have enough quality human resources since we do not have any schools which teach these fields specifically, so it creates difficulties even from wait staff which much be trained completely from scratch because most employees come from rural areas and have not passed through any educational institutions before, which is quite different from other countries. Another problem encountered frequently is staff turnover; as soon as the training is complete, the staff will leave and look for a new place to work.

5. How do you think that the elephant camps in Luang Prabang, which belong to Treasure, differ from other places?

Mr. Sisombat Douangvilaykeo Treasure Group Laos was founded in 2002 by Mr. Sisombat Douangvilaykeo, a young and ambitious Lao businessman with one mission, to offer the best travel products, highest levels of service and competitive pricing in Laos. With drive and hard work the agency expanded rapidly. In 2012, Mr. Sisombat realized a dream and opened Nam Ou Elephant Farm. With dwindling Asian Elephant numbers throughout the region and many elephants being overworked he decided to create a conservation center that would offer elephants a vastly improved life. Sabaidee Magazine was given a special opportunity to sit with Mr. Sisombat Douangvilaykeo, the president of Treasure Group Laos.

1. How did you start your business? I started out as a waiter in a restaurant and then progressed into driving a tuktuk until about 19971998. In 1999 I changed and started driving an airport taxi, then after that I started a small tour agency with just a van tour desk in front of an internet cafĂŠ in order to service tourists by collecting a service fee from a queue of vans that participated in this tourist service. In 2001, we became a branch of the Luang Prabang Travel Company, then in 2002, I started the Treasure Agency which sold air tickets, bus tickets, boat tickets, and rented vehicles up until 2006, when I opened the Treasure Travel Lao Company. In 2009-2010, I entered the hotel business with the Nam Ou Resort and Treasure Lao Hotel. Initially,

we had 7 rooms, and then expanded to 17 rooms, and now we have 25 rooms. In 2014 we opened an elephant camp at Pak Ou, called the Nam Ou Elephant Farm and also the Luang Prabang Elephant Camp on the way to Kuang Si Falls. Recently, we also purchased the Le Bel Air Resort in 2015.

Our main distinction is that we do not overwork the elephants and we only use the elephants for 20 minute tourist treks in the forest. We also collect an appropriate fee in order to fund the care and protection of the elephants. Our elephant camps also have the main attraction that elephants may be ridden past the Kuang Si Waterfall as well, so now our tourist numbers are increasing.

6. Tell me more about the hotel you are building in Vientiane Capital. What kind of business will it be and what target market are you aiming for?

2. What are all of your businesses in Luang Prabang and Vientiane Capital? As for the hotel we are building in Vientiane Capital, Businesses in the Treasure network right now, particularly in Luang Prabang, include: Treasure Travel Lao, Treasure Lao Hotel in Ban That Luang, Le Bel Air Hotel, Nam Ou Riverside Resort, the Luang Prabang Elephant Camp, airline ticket sales and vehicle rentals. As for Vientiane Capital, we are currently building the Treasure 3 Hotel in Ban Nong Boua Thong, which will take approximately 2 years to complete. It will have 14 floors and over 100 rooms. The value of this construction project is approximately 12 million USD.

3. In the management of your businesses, what inspires you, or what are the fundamentals of your entrepreneurship, or what challenges do you have? The heart of my business definitely requires a basis of hard work in searching for new knowledge in order to stay abreast of change. It is impossible for me to do everything on my own, so it is important to

we plan to have a massage parlor on the second floor. On the third through seventh floors, there will be guest rooms. On the eighth through eleventh floors, there will be apartments for long-stay guests. Another 45 rooms will be a guesthouse along with breakfast in order to service our frequent guests who come from Hanoi, Vietnam; on average about 28 groups per month. In addition to this, our branch office in Toronto, Canada also sends us many clients, so a total of about 40 groups per month.

7. What strategies do you use to become distinct from others in your businesses? We are distinct in that we focus primarily on the market and competing in terms of service. For instance, our services must have quality, such as the vehicles we rent must be of good quality and drivers must be punctual and be courteous and not drive too fast, as we use GPS to monitor our drivers to ensure that our standards are met, or in our hotels, if a waiter is absent, then the manager or GM must take over those responsibilities.

DELIGHTFUL LAO WiTH ]k;gfuovkdkf

LAO SKYWAY LAO SKYWAY

A Day In Vientiane

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SENSATION BEYOND AIR TRAVEL

               

DOMESTIC AIRLINES VTE - Luang Prabang VTE - Oudomxay VTE - Luang Namtha VTE - Huoiexay VTE - Xiang Khuang

u                      

DOMESTIC AIRLINES VTE - Phongsaly VTE - Huaphan

ROUTE MAP Head Office

Asean road, T2, P.O. 6618 Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R

Tel/Fax: ( 856 - 21 ) 512 027 www.laoskyway.com

                                        j                                                           Vientiane is the hub for flight transfers in Laos. So if you find yourself with a free day in Vientiane, here are some recommendations to make your time more enjoyable. Start the morning with a Lao coffee, head over to Talad Sao Mall. Next to it, on the side are a few Lao coffee stands. Around the coffee stands are a few food stalls. Fill with a good breakfast while you are there. Choose from ban-sel (Vietnamese omelet), ban-kuan (Vietnamese crepe with minced pork) and a few other simple dishes. Now that you are fueled up with a good breakfast, stroll over to the Talad Sao Mall to pick up a few souvenirs. Nearby are also a few beautiful historical sites such as Wat Sisaket, Wat Pra Keo or Patuxay arch. To see the locals and some tourists, head down the street to the Namphou water fountain area. The area also has a lot of handicraft boutique shops to browse. When lunch time comes around, the area is filled with various styles of restaurants. Pick from street vendor BBQ chicken, Italian pasta, sushi or various noodle shops.

 Lao Skyway          Call Centre 1441 Lao Skyway operates direct flights from Northern and Southern to Vientiane For more information contact Call Centre at 1441 or visit www.laoskyway.com.

The sunset view along the Mekong River banks is a must see. The colors are spectacular and the people watching is also entertaining. Starting from Chao Anou Park, you can stroll up. Go through the night market to pick up a few more souvenirs. Keep walking along the sidewalk with joggers, couples also enjoying the view and parents walking their kids. Along the way, browse all the sidewalk restaurants lined up next to each other. When you find the place you like, sit back with a cool beverage and soak in the view.

ບິນສຸດຄຸ�ມ ກັບລາວເດີນອາກາດ ບິນກົງຈາກແຂວງຕ�າງໆ ສູ�ນະຄອນຫລວງວຽງຈັນ ເລີ່ມຕົ້ນພຽງ

299,000 ກີບ Fly with Benefits Fly with Lao Skyway

299,000 LAK Call Center: 1441

From Northern and Southern to Vientiane only

Head Office

Asean Road, P.O. 6618 Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R

Tel/Fax: ( 856 - 21 ) 512 027 E-mail: info@laoskyway.com 17 www.laoskyway.com

TRAVEL FEATURE

s]kds]kplulao fvdgzyh'csj']k; gso  af  The illustrious orchid may have been displaying her charms to the dinosaurs millions of years ago. With over 20,000 species they have shown their grace in adapting to a diverse range of landscapes.

   af       af            [=]ylaf fvd gzY'  Not only are they the most genetically diverse of all flowering plants but also extremely popular from obsessive collectors to the vases of millions of homes, and they love to grow in Laos! There are approximately 900 species endemic to Laos, but they are facing two major problems as Laos develops. Firstly, many natural habitats native to the orchid are being removed putting a lot of pressure on existing ecosystems and secondly, orchid trafficking. The illegal trade of orchids is a multi-million dollar industry and it is almost impossible to control. Conservation and education are vital in the battle to save some of the world’s most sought after and admirable flowers and Vientiane Orchidee has the vision to do just that.

 6      2007  s]q'ws]     soj        [=]ylaf fvdgzY' Ij      Hidden away down a sleepy side road, Vientiane magically turns from chaotic city to sleepy village as you reach the orchid gardens and propagation centre. Whether you are a plant lover or a peace seeker surely this is a beautiful retreat from the busy streets where you can relax a while, listen to the birds and gaze up at grand trees whilst taking a tour around the gardens with the knowledgeable and enthusiastic founder, Bertrand, who opened the gardens in 2007 in response to a survey carried out by the Department of Botany at the University of Laos about declining orchid populations and the illegal trafficking and sale of rare orchids in Laos. Passionate about orchids, Bertrand set up the centre in Vientiane to take part in the conservation of this enchanting species whilst also providing a sustainable income for local communities through the popular treks into Phou Khao Khouay National Park to see the wild orchids in their natural habitat which also raises funds for forest preservation. Vientiane Orchidee works in collaboration with the University of Laos, the National Park Authorities and the local Laos people, bringing a range of expertise and indigenious knowledge together leading you on an ecological, sustainable and informative journey into the enchanting world of the orchid which begins in Vientiane, then heads out to the jungle.

pjk'xjkmjP;-q,fvdgzY'

The Orchid Treks

4hkmjko,ug;]kradzjvorP'c8j ! ,N dkopjk'xjkmjP;-q,fvdgzY'c,jogs,ktmujl5f

If you have a tight schedule the one day ‘orchid trek’ is perfect for you.

   muj9t                                     qd          

On leaving Vientiane the landscape quickly changes as you travel approximately 100km to the park which is home to some 50% of the orchids species in Laos. On reaching the National Park you will meet your guides and begin the day climbing to an epic viewpoint set into a 40m high cliff face before you make your way into the semi-deciduous jungle and bamboo following small paths. There is a unique display of wild orchid varieties which changes from season to season and a whole host of different edible and medicinal plant species to see. Your guide will also forage for food for your lunch which will be a Laos style picnic resting in an old river bed surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle. In the afternoon you will continue through the park making your way to the beautiful Tad Say waterfall where a refreshing swim awaits, a marvelous way to end the day.

  mhv'4yjo            qd 

If you prefer to stay longer in the jungle you have two options. You can spend the night in a homestay and learn about the local way of life or you can camp with the jungle canopy for a roof, cooking dinner on the fire and sleeping to the rich sounds of wildlife. The next day you will continue exploring deeper into the lush and diverse environment either by long tail boat or foot depending which trek you decide on, stopping at a magnificent and rarely seen waterfall in the midst of the park.

 

Transport, meals and drinking water are provided along with your guides and park entrance fees.

  

You will need cool and comfortable clothing, decent footwear, swimming costume and sunscreen and some kip for extra food, drinks, tips.

[=]ylaf fvdgzY'   59/642  ,n4n: +856 (0) 20 22 20 15 80 : +856 (0) 21 560 444 mujl5f co, s]qj      soj  s]qjk    9t  

The remarkable biodiversity in Laos is under threat and it is environmentally aware and sustainable projects such as these that are needed to help engage people whilst combating the challenging environment faced by the orchids and many other plant and animal species. It is inspiring to see what a group of like minded individuals can do whilst simultaneously giving others a glimpse into worlds that otherwise remain hidden. The orchids need to stay in the wild jungle rooted to their ancient origins to survive, let us leave them there.

Vientiane Orchidee Ban Phonethong Tchomany Unit 59/642 Vientiane, Laos PDR Mobile : +856 (0) 20 22 20 15 80 Tel/Fax : +856 (0) 21 560 444 www.vientianeorchidees.com bertrand@vientianeorchidees.com laurence@vientianeorchidees.com

ASEAN CONNECT

words & photos | Nipon Riabriang

Walk Hundreds Of Years in a Day

1 .osobj',Nmuj ,toy]k

          cs]j'mjv'mjP;8k,s,6jgdkt8jk'M      F   d5hznj    d5h,

All too often Manila, the capital city of Philippines, is taken for granted and used only as a transit point en route to the country’s white sand beach islands and other historical cities. But tucked away within this bustling, chaotic metropolitan megacity is a wealth of history, colorful multi-cultural heritage, and plenty of attractions worthy of exploration. Spare some time, even for just a day, and you’ll be greatly rewarded.

 Rizal Park

             “the Last Walk”                      l;olkmk]tot iy-vo gxaomuj8A'0v' xhv,-ko8yvk3d muj8A' d;,c,joE xklyd c]t g7upgxao0v'mtskoltgxoF xaf95[ao lt4komujcsj'oU wfh4ndgda[Iadlkw;h gxaovko5lvole]a[ fiD   gxaolt4komujmujoadmjv'mjP;,adc;j,k4jkpI6[D This memorial was built for Dr. Jose Rizal, an activist who fought for Philippine independence against the Spanish, and to whom “The Last Walk” legend belongs. Alleged by the Spanish to be a traitor, Rizal was forced to walk a long distance to the gallows, a scene that enraged the Filipino crowd and led to the fight for independence. The route is marked with a fabricated set of footprints, and has become a popular attraction for local parents eager to tell their children about this act of bravery. The innermost part of the Rizal Park is dedicated to Santiago Fortress, which sits astride the Pasig River. Built by, and once belonging to, Spanish soldiers, the site now serves as a memorial for Dr. Jose Rizal, and offers great photo-ops for sightseeing tourists visiting the river.



Intramuros

 F hI  k       yj   g-yj'  

Built in 1571 by the Spanish forces, led by Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, this fortress was meant to safeguard the land from pirate invasions. Enclosed in the 640,000 sq m fortress are churches, a school, and several administrative buildings. The stunning marble San Agustin Church – built in 1599 – was the center of local administration, education, culture, religion, and commerce. Architecturally it reflects typical European religious design from the Middle Ages, ornamented with ancient paintings that tell the story of Jesus, as well as other meticulously crafted religious sculptures

vjk;t

Manila Bay

 ,=vv[gvg-p     .spj                s                            ,j;o-njos]kpD Located in the back of the Mall of Asia – a gigantic mega-mall for shoppers – the bay area is adorned in amusement park style with a Ferris wheel and other gaudy playthings. The place is popular among the Tagalogs for being a superlative spot to watch the sunset, with either a lover, or the whole family in tow, and the smooth sounds of the music that floats the air, just adds to the atmosphere.

csj'-kf

National Museum

  Bahay Tsinoy     u                            The National Museum of the Philippines showcases significant collections from archaeology, natural science and the arts. Bahay Tsinoy (Museum of Chinese) gives visitors an idea of the incredible past that Chinese immigrants had to live through, and details their impressive journey from largely being itinerant vendors and coolies during the Spanish Occupation, to being prominent figures in art, politics, media and government today

  

Climate

 ,udkoltcf'F mafltotlyo Xlyo]txtlkp8k?F gmfltdkovksko c]t dyf9tdemk';afmtot meD 95fle7ao0v'gmfltdkogs]qjkoU  { lt4komujshv'dkos]ad 0v' NCCA c]t ,aogxaos,kdsq;.90v'm5dMlyj' mujgxaovkokoy7q,0v'xtgmfltgxo .og,nv',koy]k 

Filipino Heritage Festival (2nd week of June)

  gd, okM-toyf  fvdw,hw2 ,ug-yj'm5d7qo pjk'z6h-jP;-ko  

This weeklong celebration opens on the Tuesday of the designated week, and features an array of games and food displays – especially involving chocolate. Tuesday evening there’s a fireworks display, and on Wednesday the parades begin as costumed celebrants revel through the streets. Saturday is the day of the chocolatiers, and a time to sample the many desserts and treats prepared for the celebration

The driest months are from March to May. From June to November expect torrential downpours due to the annual typhoons.

Performances, visual arts, food fairs, and other cultural related activities take over the heritage sites in the city. The epicenter of the festivities is at Intramuros – the site of NCCA’s main office, and the heart of everything that’s Spanish Colonial in Manila Chocolate Festival (2nd week of April)



Getting Around

 SRTS y   lu    MRT lu  wx c-o8k,k-kD

Getting around Manila is made easier with the SRTS trains. Most tourist sites are along the LRT Line 1, or Yellow Line, which serves Malate, Ermita, Quiapo, Binondo and Santa Cruz, while the MRT Line 2, or Purple Line, serves Quiapo, Sampaloc and Santa Mesa.

lkpy   k  g-njv,8+lu6 luou-ko8kg,-kD

Metro Manila’s main regional passenger train station is Tutuban in Tondo. From Tutuban station the Commex (Orange Line) cross through Tondo, Sampaloc, Santa Mesa, Paco, and San Andres, before extending to Metro Manila. There is an interchange with the Yellow Line at Blumentritt station, and with the Purple Line at Santa Mesa station.

.9dk' c]t      j  I u LRT 

 k6   D

Tricycle and pedicabs are found throughout the city, with major downtown access spots at the Lawton bus terminal, the area around Doroteo Jose and Recto LRT Stations, Tutuban railway station, Plaza Lacson in Santa Cruz, and Plaza Lorenzo Ruiz in Binondo.

SABAIDEE COVER

words | Michelle Luehman

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]qf  1994      

Photos: Gaid PHITTHAYAKORNSILP

  50     31

     3      

Photos: Gaid PHITTHAYAKORNSILP

             P                            33

                                        z6h7qo                 ;k               34

Photos: Gaid PHITTHAYAKORNSILP

Getting Around the Local Way

Bikes, boats, buses and bamboo poles

Lao PDR is a young country. In 1994, Lao opened its borders as part of the early beginnings of the ASEAN community. The first friendship bridge was completed in 1994. The new bridge opened a door to Lao PDR as a major tourist destination. This was a milestone in the international access and development of the country. The population is heavily dispersed and is isolated from the development of western travel. The people still ride many of the classic cheap modes of transport. Motorbikes powered by 50cc engines, outboard motors are simple 2-stroke engines. And in some places human power is used.

And in some places human power is used. Boats propelled along by paddling oars or pushed by bamboo poles More and more prevalent is the international trend of large wheeled 4 wheel drive pickup trucks. Powerful and imposing they take up a lot of the road and are driven with attitude. The tray at the back is more often full of family, novices or workers than building supplies. The iconic transport vehicle still running the streets today is the Touk Touk 3-wheeler. With tourism came the need to travel longer journeys more quickly, and so mini vanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, buses and planes became more prevalent.

Local buses range from the deluxe air-conditioned model with very bright dĂŠcor to ones that look more like an old school bus. These versions give you stiff chairs covered with very thin padding. The chairs may or may not be attached to the floor. The advantage of a Local bus over its up-market cousin is the array of local life. Stopping in the middle of nowhere to pick up passengers: street vendors hopping on to sell their food and drinks, then getting off at the next stop, to catch the bus back and repeat the process. It takes longer, but is far more interesting. Boats propelled along by paddling oars or pushed by bamboo poles where the water is shallow enough. On land bicycle pedal power is still a popular option. The car, although prevalent in the bigger cities, is a rare sight in rural Lao. Even in the cities many people still ride motorbikes as their main mode of transport

strapped and stacked high on the motorbike cleverly like a fine puzzle.

Despite the inroads of cars and vans, the 2-wheeler is still king, with most people using it as their preferred way to move around. Kids begin to ride motorbikes at an early age and people continue to ride them well into their old age. Motorbikes are the work-horse of Lao. People attach side carts to carry groceries, gas bottles, concrete and equipment to work sites. The carts are loaded with coconuts, fruit vending carts or ice cream boxes, which leave a trail of melted ice water on the road. Small 75CC and 100CC motor bike engines are kick started into life to push, pull or carry loads up and down the streets of the cities. The

Vietnamese traders ride through Lao selling their tin wares, large pots, fold down beds and shiny tin coffee tables. All of their products are piled, strapped and stacked high on the motorbike cleverly like a fine puzzle. The schoolyards are lined with bikes that are one size fits all, single gears, and usually with 2 or 3 kids per bike. Pushbikes come with a seat over the back mudguard where a friend can ride along. Bikes are also popular with women using them to do their errands. You can catch them pedaling gracefully along the road holding an open umbrella in one hand to keep shaded from the hot afternoon sun. For many in rural Lao, life in the mountains revolves around crops and harvesting from the forest. The rotary hoe works all day. When theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not plowing the fields, a large cart is attached for hauling rice, wood and anything else that will fit. It is the modern mechanical buffalo. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re either working the field or hauling loads down from the mountains and onto the rivers. Communities commute every day from village to farm or forest to harvest, to forage or scavenge for a living. For these people a boat, with a simple outboard motor, and a hand hewn paddle are that powers these boats on their daily runs.

At an early age children learn to handle a boat and understand the currents of the river as they know one day their lively hood will depend on their ability to safely navigate these rivers. The best of them become captains of cargo boats. The larger cargo boats run from major port to major port or across the mighty Mekong carrying loads of goods through international borders. They are greatly respected for being able to negotiate an unmapped and forever changing Mekong River. Life in Lao is changing fast, but some things, like a pushbike ride, riding a small motorbike or a ride on the river, are both work and pleasure. It is this pleasure and charm, of a relaxed lifestyle, which is both the beauty and burden of a developing Lao.

CHILL OUT

gfy  Sky Lao Restaurant, Rashmi’s THE Plaza Hotel

 gfy j             

Elevate your dining experience. At the Sky Lao Restaurant at Rashmi’s The Plaza Hotel, choose your mood. To be surrounded by elegant décor and big window views of Vientiane City, choose the indoor dining area. If you prefer to feel the wind in your hair, go for the open roof top. Outside you will get a full 180 degree view of the Mekong River. And as you might have already guessed, the sunset view is

                                Their menu offers a variety of exotic cocktails, international fusion foods and an in-house bakery that is sure to sweeten your visit. When you first arrive, cool down with a signature drink called the Singhanista. It is Sky Lao’s custom creation of Singha Beer cocktail. After a few Singhanistas and being hypnotized by the sunset, you might as well stay for dinner. I recommend the New Zealand Roasted Lamb Shank. It is encrusted with savory spices. The tender juicy shank sits in a layer of sauce. The slightly sweet and tangy sauce adds another dimension of flavor. Save room for dessert. Or you can do it like me and have the dessert first. The chocolate dessert is a beautiful combination of slightly crunchy on the outside and silky oozing chocolate inside. A combination of lightly sweet center and a crust that is lightly bitter from dark chocolate.

Try Singhanista Cocktail at Sky Lao Restaurant call 021 315084 – 88 “Taste of Friendship Taste of Singha Beer”

SABAIDEE GUIDE TO

Tips For Traveling with Kids

10  j 

Traveling with kids is not easy; an unhappy toddler can easily transform a dream vacation intoa nightmare expedition.

gIqk              gIqk gIqk   gIqk    a                                gIqk 

On our first vacation with our one-yearold daughter, she screamed and threw a temper-tantrum the entire 45 minute flight. She flailed her arms and legs, she screamed at the top of her little lungs, and was so upset that she soiled her clothes. My spouse and I had intentionally chosen a short flight, but we were still helpless to soothe her. It wasn’t just a nightmare for us, the people sitting nearby and the flight attendantswere all irritated with us. My wife and I were burnt out before we had even arrived for our vacation.

gIqk   gIqkIa gIqk gIqk gIqk gIqkgIqk    

We learned a lot on that first trip, and what we learned made our second vacation much more enjoyable. We had visions of waiting 5 years until we could travel again, I’m glad that we didn’t give up. Hopefully our travails will help you enjoy traveling with your toddler on the first try.

10 Ten tips for traveling with toddlers

                                               + Plan your itinerary carefully. Choose flights and travel times that are compatible with your toddler’s natural schedule. If your little one usually takes a nap in the afternoon, that’s a great time to arrange a short flight. Don’t expect her to stay quietly seated in your lap if you’re traveling during her active times. If you have multiple flights, try to schedule extra layover time so she can exercise in the airport before settling down for the next leg.

                       Choose accommodations carefully. Choose a hotel with a space where your toddler can play safely and keep herself entertained with minimal supervision. A hotel with an enclosed garden area is perfect – you and your spouse can enjoy a morning coffee while your little chases butterflies in the flowers.

                   Check locations. When you book a hotel check the location, and facilities provided by the hotel. Spending an extra 30 minutes in a taxi searching for the hotel may not be a big deal to you, but with a toddler on the verge of crabbiness it’s more pleasant for everyone if you can go directly where you’re going.

 8jk'g,nv'    gIqk         Be prepared. It’s harder to find your toddler’s favorite brands when you’re in a new city. You don’t want to be hunting for favorite snacks when your toddler is on the verge of a tantrum. Make sure you have these items in your carry-on and bring enough for the return trip too: milk, water, snacks, juice, diapers, wet wipes, tissues, medicines, plastic bags, and extra clothes.

           But be flexible. Toddlers have strong opinions and want to do things at their own pace. Allow extra time for activities; everyone will have a more enjoyable time if your toddler can contribute her opinion to the activities

       Each person should have their own luggage. Pack a small bag with books, games, and a favorite toy for your toddler. Your toddler will learn quickly that she is responsible for the bag, and this will make playthings easier to manage while you’re traveling, and after you arrive.

           Cleaning while on the road. Bring a clothesline and detergent and you can quickly wash your toddler’s soiled outfits in the sink. You’ll save money and your toddler will still look adorably clean in all your vacation photos.

 I             A belt. When you’re eating in new restaurants you can use a belt to safely lock your toddler into a highchair. It won’t help with keeping food on the table, but it will help keep your toddler in the chair so you and your spouse can enjoy the meal.

             Travel earplugs. Your toddler is learning to communicate but likely won’t be able to explain that the pressure in her ears or the sound of the airplane engines is bothering her. If you’re flying, travel earplugs can help your toddler be more comfortable.

             h  Extra packing ideas. Balloons are easy to pack and can be a great distraction in a pinch. A drawing book and crayons can keep your toddler occupied when you need a break.

 gIqk  K Vacation is meant to be a fun time for the family hopefully these tipswill help you and your family to have the vacation of your dreams. Happy travels!

EAT & DRINK - Listing

VIENTIANE Ai Capone 8 Rue Francois Ngin, Ban Mixai aicaponelaospdr 020 5991 0888

Acqua 007/078 Rue Francois Nginn acqua.laos 020 2811 7888

La Scala Italian Restaurant Ban BOUNKAGNOM,Thadeua Rd www.lascalalao.com 021 931169

L’Adresse de Tinay Wat Ongteu, Setthathirath Road ladressedetinay.com 021 215 506

Aria Italian Culinary Arts 8 Rue Francois Nginn, Ban Mixai ARIA.MIXAI.RESTAURANT 021 222 589

L’Atmosphere Simeuang Road, Ban Simeuang L’Atmosphère 020 7715 8813

Chan Coffee 189 Setthatirath Road, Mixay Village facebook.com/ChanCoffeeLaos 020 2398 6066, 020 5222 4665

Soul Kitchen Thadeua Road 143 (KM 0.5) 020 5612 0804 soulkitchen.vientiane@gmail.com

La Cage du Coq Hengbounnoy Road, Ban Haysok facebook.com/La-Cage-Du-Coq-Ban-Haysok 020 54 676 065

L’alsace

Benoni Café

Setthathirath Road

Rue Setthathirath (above Phimphone)

L’alsace

facebook.com/benonicafe

020 9806 2295

021 213 334

Amphone Restaurant

Bistro 22

37 Soi Wat Xieng Gneun, Setthathirath Road

22 Samsenthai Road, Ban Khaonyot

facebook.com/amphonelao

facebook.com/benonicafe

021-212 489/ 020-7785 7647

Merci Restaurant

021 214 129

BEGONIA CAFE’

Souphanouvong Road, Ban Nakham,

Soi 4 off Nongbone road

Vientiane Capital of Lao P.D.R

facebook.com/pages/Begonia-cafe’

020 77 456 664

020 5555 5082

Ban Gai Tex Mex Cantina

BOR PEN YANG

Sokpalaung Road

Fa Ngum Road, Wat Chanh

facebook.com/BanGaiHouseOfChickenh

facebook.com/Bor Pen Yang restaurant

020 9825 6654

020 5580 8281

Le Banneton

La Belle Epoque Lounge Bar

Norkeokoummane Road, Ban Mixai

Settha Palace Hotel, Pang Kham Road

Le-Banneton

setthapalace.com/dining/belle-epoque-bar/

021 217 321

021 217 581

Dairy Queen

Jamil Zahid Restaurant

Quay Fa Ngum

Off Khounboulom Road, Ban Haysok

www.facebook.com/DairyQueenLaos

facebook.com/JamilZahidRestaurant

021 255 380

020 5650 2455

CHOKDEE CAFE 32/4 Fa Ngum Road, Mekong riverside www.chokdeecafe.com 020 5610 3434

Couleur d’Asie Nokèokoummane Road facebook.com/CouleurdAsie 021 223 008

Pimenton Rue Nokeoukoumane pimentonrestaurant-vte.com 021 215 506

Bamboo House

CAFE’ NOMAD

23 Singha Road, Nongbone Village

1-342 Dongpalanthong, Sisattanak

021 453-668

facebook.com/cafenomad.lao

La Bodega 164, Unit 15 Sibouaban Road, Sithane Neua Village 021 264 187

Ban Lao Beer Garden Rue Francois Ngin 021 212 930

Black Canyon Coffee Chao Anu Branch Black Canyon Coffee That Luang Branch blackcanyoncoffee.com 0 20 77 442 643

Kung’s Café Lao Off Rue Simeuang, Piawat Village facebook.com/KungsCafeLao 021 219 101

Makphet 78 Ban Inpeng, Vat Chanh Tha makphet-restaurant.org 021 260 587

020 5434 9977

Chanmaly’s CAFE

Sumibiyaki Torishige Nongbone Village facebook.com/sumibiyakitorishige Tel: 020 9757 5700

La Cave Des Chateaux

278 Sokpaluang Road, Thongkang Village

Fountain Area (Nam Phu)

facebook.com/chanmalyrestaurant

facebook.com/La-Cave-Des-Chateaux

020 58 346 410

021 212192

Common Grounds Cafe’ and Bakery Rue Chao Anou 021 255 057 facebook.com/commongroundslaos

LE COMPTOIR 8,rue Francois Ngin facebook.com/lecomptoirdevientiane 021 254 013

Coffee Today Ban Phonsinuoan, Sisattanak facebook.com/CoffeeToday 030 5058123

Lao Kitchen Rue Hengboun (opposite KP Hotel)

Sumibiyaki Torishige Restaurant Unit22, No333/02, Nongbone Village, Near Janpanese Embassy, Saysettha, Vientane

T: 020 97 575 700

lao-kitchen.com 021 254 332

Wed - Mon 5:30pm - 11:00pm / Mon - Close

EAT & DRINK - Listing

VIENTIANE Dhaka Restaurant

LE TRIO COFFEE

Beside Namphu

Setthathirath Road

021 254 858

facebook.com/letriocoffee 020 2255 3552

Douang Deuane Restaurant & Wine Bar

Sputnik Burger

Beside Namphu

Setthathirath Road

021 254 858

facebook.com/SputnikBurger 0 30 93 76 504

Fuji Japanese Restaurant # 1

XANG KHOO Restaurant

Best Western Hotel,

68 Pangkham Road

021 254 722

facebook.com/XANG-KHOO-Restaurant

Fuji Japanese Restaurant # 2

021 219 314

Nongbone Village 021 454 782

Fujiwara Restaurant Luang Prabang Road facebook.com/pages/Fujiwara-Restaurant 020 77 773 177

I-BEAM BAR 88 Setthathirath Road facebook.com/ibeamvientiane

Le Silapa Setthathirath Road

Kiriya Café Setthathirath Road www.cafelao.com 020 5855 5725

Vegetarian in the Golden Age Saylom Road

Setthathirath Road facebook.com/jazzybricklao

La Signature Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha ansarahotel.com

JOMA BAKERY CAFE’ - That Luang JOMA BAKERY CAFE’ - Phonthan joma.biz 020-2204-4555

Masa Spoon Café N’ Bistro Rue Dongpalanthong, Phonesinuan 021 261 634

KHOP CHAI DEU 54 Setthathirath Road facebook.com/KhopChaiDeu 021 251 564

STICKY FINGERS 1/3 Francois Nginn Road facebook.com/StickyFingersLaos 021 215 972

Kualao Restaurant 134 Samsenthai Road facebook.com/Kualao 021 215 777

021 213 514

021 212 489

JOMA BAKERY CAFE’ - Nam Phou

021 219 689

020 5550 5305.

020 5610 3434

JAZZY BRICK

facebook.com/LeSilapaVientiane

SENGTAWAN ROOFTOP BAR Ban Sithan Neua www.sengtawan.com

The Spirit House Fa Ngum Road, thespirithouselaos.com/ 021 243 795

021 219 362

KONG VIEW RESTAURANT 183 Souphanouvong Road www.kongview.com

SENGLAO CAFE Ban Naxay, Vientiane Capital of Lao P.D.R Senglao café@facebook.com 030 5880588

021 520 522

NAKED ESPRESSO Dongpalan Road nakedespresso.net 021 454 631

Paris Cocktail Beung Ka-nyong, Tha Deua road facebook.com/Paris-Cocktail 020 78 111 008

LUANG PRABANG The Apsara Restaurant Kingkitsarath Rd, Ban Wat Sene theapsara.com/bar-restaurant 071 254 670

Aussie Sports Bar Ban Aham, Sisouphan Road aussiesportsbarlaos.com 071 254 706

Bamboo Tree Soukhaserm Road, At Nam Khan river side Bamboo-Tree-Lao-Cooking-School-and-Restaurant 071 254 670

Aussie Sports Bar Ban Aham, Sisouphan Road

Restaurant L’Elephant

Le caFÉ ban vaT sene

Kounxoa Road, Ban Vat Nong

Sakarine Road

elephant-restau.com

elephant-restau.com/cafebanvatsenefr.html

071 252 482

071 252 482,

Les 3 Nagas

La Belle Epoque

Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong

4-5 Ban Phonepheng,

3-nagas.com

luangsayresidence.com

071 253 888

071 260 891

Tamnak Lao Restaurant Sakarinne Road

Café Toui Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong

tamnaklao.net

cafetoui.com

071 212 239

020 5657 6763

THe siLK road caFÉ

Tamarind Restaurant

Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre, Ban Saylom

Ban Wat Sene, Nam Khan River

ockpoptok.com

tamarindlaos.com

071 212 597

071 213 128,

TANGOR

ICON KLUB

House 63/3 Rue Susavangvong

Siphouttabath Road, Ban Xiengmouan

letangor.com

iconklub.com

020 9560 7262

071 254 905

UTOPIA

The balcony by Lanith

Ban Aphay

Ban Khoi - Nam Dong River

utopialuangprabang.com

lanith.com

020 2388 1771

071 211 040

aussiesportsbarlaos.com 020 22 425 499

The Bellerive Terrace 99 Baan Phonehueang, Riverfront athebellerive.com/restaurant.htm 071 260 733

Big Tree Café 46 Ban Vat Nong bigtreecafe.com 020 77776748

Blue Lagoon Restaurant Ban Choumkhong blue-lagoon-cafe.com 020 5925 2525

Coconut Garden Sisavangvong Road elephant-restau.com/coconutgarden 071 252 482

La Casa Lao 66/6, Ban Xiengmouane Road 020 22 8 12 64

EAT & DRINK - Listing

LUANG PRABANG Couleur Cafe and Restaurant

Redbul Bar

86/04 Ban Vat Sene

Phousi Road

020 2388 1771

http://redbulbarluangprabang.com/

Viewpoint cafe and restaurant

Dyen Sabai Restaurant and Bar Ban Phan Louang

Ban Xieng Thong

facebook.com/Dyensabai#_=_

mekongriverview.com/en/cafe-restaurant.html

020 55 104 817

071 254 900

Delilah’s Place

The Terrace

Chao Fa Ngum Road

93 Unit 03 Phoneheuang Village

071 254 988

burasariheritage.com 071 255 031

Dao Coffee

Saffron Caffe

Ban Viengkeo facebook.com/ Dao-Coffee-Luang-Prabang

PO Box 494, Luang Prabang

071 214 444

saffroncoffee.com

Khaiphaen

Opera House Bar

100 Sisavang Vatana Road, Ban Wat Nong

Sakkarine Road

030 51 55 221

operahouseluangprabang.com/

Pizza Phan Luang

071 211 040

Phan Luang Village

JOMA BAKERY CAFE’ - Hua Xieng

020 56 922 529

JOMA BAKERY CAFE’ - Nam Khan

Joys Restaurant Phothisalath Road 020 5516 6575

Chez Matt Ban Vat Sene 020 77 77 94 97

Rosella Fusion Restaurant Kingkitsarat Road 020 77 775 753

Sonphao No. 59, Xatikhoumman Road 071 253 489

Same Same Restaurant 72/04 Ban Pakham 020 5953 8536

Lao Lao Garden Phousi Road, Ban Aphay 020-7777-4414

Phou Savanh Restaurant La Residence Phou Vao

joma.biz

facebook.com/laresidencephouvao

071-260-920

071 212 194

Hive Bar & Restaurant

Sit & Relax Riverside

5 Kingkitsarat Road, Ban Aphay

Muang Nga Village

hivebarlaos.com

020 59 595 951

020 59 995 370

NAVA MEKONG 44/3 Ban Vat Nong, Khem Khong Road

The Verandah 59/4 Soukkaseum Road, Ban Vatsene 071213 120

villa-maly.com/Dining 020 59 285 555

The House Restaurant & Belgian Beer Bar Phousi Road 10, Aphai Village thehouselaos.com/ 071 255 021

Namkhong Cafe Bldg. 03 Choumkhong Unit 52 071 213 049

071 254 254

Indigo Cafe Sisavangvong Road, Pakham Village indigohouse.la 071 212 264

Luang Prabang Bakery 17/01 Choumkong Village, Sisavangvong Rd http://luangprabang-bakery-guesthouse.com/ 071 252 499

Salt ‘n’ Pepper

Lao Indoor Golf “N” Cafe

Xiengmuan Garden Restaurant

Sakkaline Road

Phu Vao | Opposite Bcel and Lao Viet Bank

35 Baan Xiengmuan, Sisavangvong Road

020 5552 9381

laoindoorgolf.com

071 252 583

071 253 491-2

Khmu

Yongkhoune Restaurant

Sisavangvong Road

Mango Garden Restaurant

071 212 092

Sisavangvong Road

Sakkaline Road 071 212 342

020 5620 3666

SAVANNAKHET Lin’s Cafe

Savan Coffee

Latsaphanit Rd., Xaiyaphoum Village

Km.6, No. 9 Road,Phonsavang Neu Village

http://lincafe.netau.net/

020 55 540 226

020 9988 1630

CAFE CHAI DEE

Savan I Lao Restaurant

Unit 01, Lattanalansy, Thai village

Lat Sa Von Seuk Road

cafechaidee.com

020 55 891 006

030 500 3336

CHAMPASAK Dok Mai Lao Caffe Restaurant

Sinouk Coffee

Mekong Lanxang

Rue 24, 91

Ban Lakmuang

No 11th Road, Mekong Riverfront

facebook.com/Dok-mai-lao-caffe-restaurant

sinouk-cafe.com

031 254 411

020 58 447 879

031 214 716

Nadao

Sinouk Coffee

Katuad Coffee

No. 38 Road, Corner of Road 16W

Ban Lakmuang

Corner of No 24 and 13 South Rd

020 5550 4884

sinouk-cafe.com

facebook.com/Katuad-Coffee

031 214 716

020 7799 8777

Le Panorama

Vida Bakery Cafe

Jinya Japanese Restaurant

5 Bane Watlouang, Pakse Hotel

Building 188, Rd 12, Ban Thaluang

No 10th Road

hotelpakse.com

020 29 256 632

030 986 3785

031 21 21 31

See & Do - Listing

VIENTIANE COPE VISITOR CENTRE Centre of Medical Rehabilitation, Khouvieng www.copelaos.org 021 218 427

LAO BOWLING CENTRE Boulevard Khunbulom (near the National Stadium) 021 254 332

Lao National Museum Samsenthai Road, Anou Village 021 212 460

Long Vien Golf Club Km 17 Thadeau Road, Dongposy Village www.longviengolfresort.com 030 977 8888

Inpeng Ethnic CulturAL Park 406 T4 Rd., Donekoy Village 20 28035756, 20 55620191, 20 23999990

The Memorial of President Souphanouvong Kaisone Phomvihane Road, Phonesa-ard Village Mon - Fri 8am – 11.30am, 1.30pm – 4pm

President Kaysone Phomvihane Memorial Museum National Highway 13 km 6 8am – 12pm, 1pm – 4pm, Close on Monday and public holidays

Vientiane Orchidées

People’s Security Museum

LAO DISABLED WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT CENTRE www.laodisabledwomen.com. 020 5433 3089,

Lao Zoo an Boo Tulakhum District, Vientiane Province http://www.laozoo.com/ 023-241-015

FROM FARM TO MARKET

59/642 Ban Phonethong, Chomany

Kaisone Phomvihane Road

www.tuktuksafari.com

www.vientianeorchidees.com

8am – 11.30am, 1.30pm – 4pm

020 5433 3089,

021 560 444

I:CAT GALLERY Ban BOUNKAGNOM,Thadeua Rd www.facebook.com/icatgallery.

Lao Textile Museum Ban Nongthatai, Chanthabouly District 021 560 458, 021 213 467

020 7783 9674

Lao People’s Army History Museum Near the Ministry of Defense, Kaisone Phomvihane Road Mon - Fri 8am – 11.30am, 1.30pm – 4pm

HOUEY HONG VOCATIONAL TRAINING CENTRE FOR WOMEN Lane 19, Houey Hong Village www.houeyhongcentre.com. 021 560 006

VIENTIANE BYCYCLE www.vientianebycycle.com. 020 5581 2337

LAO EXPERIENCES COOKING CLASS lao-experiences.com 020 5569 9429

LUANG PRABANG Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden Ban Mano Road http://www.pha-tad-ke.com/ 020 22 540 999

Tiger Trail Outdoor Adventures Sisavangvong Road, Next to Royal Palace Museum www.laos-adventures.com 071 212 311

Luang Prabang Library Sisavangvong Road, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Nam Ou Elephant Farm Ban Vang Lae, Pak Ou District www.namouelephantfarm.com 020 2863 8805

OCK POP TOK LIVING CRAFTS CENTRE

UXO Laos Visitor Center Behind Chao Anouvoung Monument, Phothisan Road 071 252 525

Elephant Village Sanctuary Day Trips

Garavek Performance 85/5 Kounxoua Road, Ban Phonheuang www.garavek.com 020 9677 7300

ETHNIK Fashion Show

Ban Saylom (opposite Phousi Market)

Ban Xieng Lom

Kingkitsarat Road, Ban Aphay

www.ockpoptok.com

www.elephantvillage-laos.com

www.hivebarlaos.com

071 212 597

071 252 417

020 5999 5370

Living Land Farm

White Elephant Adventures

Khuangsi Water Fall Road, Ban Pongvang

44/3 Sisavangvong Road, Ban Xieng Mouane

www.livinglandlao.com

www.white-elephant-adventures-laos.com

020 5519 9208

030 514 0243

Tamnak Lao Cooking School Sakarine Rd, Ban Watsene 071 252 525

The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC) Ban Khamyong, Luang Prabang http://www.taeclaos.org/ 071 253 364

Tamarind Cooking Courses Ban Vat Sene www.tamarindlaos.com 071 213 128

Advertising Here call

SABAIDEE MAGAZINE Tel: 021 454 782 Mob: 020 5884 8376 Email: Chayada@sabaidee-magazine.com

project space gallery Kitsalat Road, Thong Chaleuan Village www.projectspace-luangprabang.com 071 213 091

WELLNESS - Listing

VIENTIANE ADINA SPA 170 Phonsaath, Kaysone Road www.adinaspalao.com 021 414 138

CHAMPA SPA & MASSAGE Corner of Fa Ngum and Pangkham Road www.champaspa.com 021 251 926

DALAH SPA 140 Ban Phonsavanh Tai, Hom 3, Khouvieng Road facebook.com/dalah.spa 021 285 125

GREEN PARK CHAMPA LAO SPA

HERBAL SAUNA

Green Park Hotel, 12 Khouvieng Road

Hom 10, Ban ThongKang

www.greenparkvientiane.com.

020 5504 5655

facebook.com/Manee Spa

021 263 064

GIRIYA SPA

021 353 207

WHITE LOTUS MASSAGE & YOGA

Mani Beauty & Spa

Rashmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hotel, Thadeua Road Km3

Pangkham Road, close to Nam Phu

facebook.com/Mani-Beauty-Spa

www.rashmishotel.com

021 217 492

020 55 612 650

021 315 088

NIRVANA SPA

MANDARINA BODY & SOUL SPA

Pangkham Road, facing Lao Plaza Hotel

Pangkham Road, near Nam Phu

www.nirvana-spa-laos.com.

021 223 857,

021 222 936

PAPAYA SPA

Vientiane Yoga Studio

Phanya Sy Road

Sokphaluang Road

www.papayaspa.com.

020 91 943 770,

021 216 550

HEALING HANDS MASSAGE & SPA

Manee Spa

Chao Anou Road

LV City Massage and Spa

Green Park Hotel, 12 Khouvieng Road

149 T2 (Nong Douang) Road

www.donchanpalacelaopdr.com.

www.lvcitylaos.com

021 244 288

030 525 6699

Allience International Medical Center Souphanuvong Road, Ban Wattayyaithong http://www.aimclao.com/ 021 513 095

New Arena Laos Ban Thadua facebook.com/NewArenaLaos 021 480 913

Sengdara Fitness Centre Dongpalan Road www.sengdarafitness.com 021 452 159

LPH Fitness Club

Goodlife Sports Complex Luangprabang Road, Phosy Village facebook.com/goodlifelaos 020 29 292 906

Sarila Spa Salana Boutique Hotel, Chao Anou Road www.salanaboutique.com 021 254 254

Lao Japan Budo Center

Lao Plaza Hotel, Samsenethai Road

Kounboulom Road

www.laoplazahotel.com

021 265 290

021 218 800-1

The Olympic Fitness Rashmiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Plaza, Thadeua Road www.rashmishotel.com

Fit Dee - Fitness for Women facebook.com/FitDee 021 419 126 - 020 5568 5153

021 315 088

Advertising here call 021 454 782, 020 5884 8376

WELLNESS - Listing

LUANG PRABANG AYU SPA Kounxaou Road, Ban Phoneheung www.xiengthongpalace.com. 071 213 200

DHAMMADA OASIS MASSAGE Luang Prabang Oasis Hotel www.luangprabangoasis.com. 071 212 642

DOK CHAMPA MASSAGE Luang Prabang Oasis Hotel www.dokchampamassage.com. 020 7777 9966

M.K. Wellness Centre 77 M. 4 Ouparach Buakhum Road, Ban That Luang 030-777 1082

KIRIDARA SPA

THE SPA GARDEN

22/13 North Road, Ban Naviengkham

Ban Phonheuang

www.snhcollection.com/kiridara.

www.spagardenlpb.com.

071 261 888

071 212325

LAO RED CROSS

The Angsana Spa Luangprabang

Opposite Vat Visoun

Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel

071 252 856,

www.angsana.com | www.banyantree.com 071 254609

LUANG PRABANG YOGA luangprabangyoga.org 020 7777 9966

DHAMMADA MASSAGE OASIS Tropical Oasis Park, Ban Vixoun, Setthathirath Road, Luang Prabang Tel: 071 212 642, 071 252 933 Fax: 071 212 818 Email: info@luangprabangoasis.com www.luangprabangoasis.com

SANCTUARY MASSAGE

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;HIBISCUS SPA 45 Sakhaline Road 030 923 5079

Spa by Burasari

Sanctuary Hotel, Kitsalat Road

Nam Khan River Road, Ban Khili

071 213 777

071 255 031

Enjoy

Anytime Anywhere

Available For Free Download in iOS and Android Versions

Our Website Read selected articles, view photos in high resolution and share links to your favorite stories. www.sabaidee-magazine.com/

Download the app from iTunes Store itunes.apple.com Download from Play Store. Search for Issuu app

On Facebook Catch updates on what the Sabaidee team is doing. See behind the scenes or share your comments. www.facebook.com/sabaideemagazine

For More Information Tel/Fax:

THM Lao Co., LTD. 265 Baan Nongbone, Xaysetha, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. +856 21 454 782; Mob: +856 20 5884 8376; +856 20 5516 2440. E-mail: admin@sabaidee-magazine.com Mob:

Ms. Chayada Ariyaphoncharoen ( Gung ) Sales & Marketing Director +856 20 5884 8376, +66 83 018 4076 ( Thai ); E-mail: chayada@sabaidee-magazine.com

SHOP - Listing

VIENTIANE INDIGO Lao Rue François Ngin, Ban Mixay http://www.indigolao.com/ 021 215 469

SAOBANCRAFTS 97/1 Chao Anou Road www.saobancrafts.com 020 7783 9152

LAO FINE ARTS HANDCRAFT JEWELLRY 550/01 Thatluang Tai Village, Saysettha District 020 5542 6993

NIGHT MARKET

MONUMENT BOOKS

Oriental Bookshop

Mekong riverfront, Fa ngum Rd

Nokeokoummane Rd

121 Chao Anou Rd

Sunset - 9pm, 7 days

www.monument-books.com

021 215 352

021 243 708

T’SHOP LAI GALLERY

CARUSO LAO

Vat Inpeng Street

08 FA NGUM ROAD

86/7 Setthathirath Rd

www.artisanslao.com

http://carusolao.com/

021 222 236

021 223 178

021-223 644

MINISTRY OF SILK

Mixay Art of Mekong

Kanchana Boutique

99/01 Nam Phou Square

053/55 Nokeokhuman Street, Ban Mixay

102 Chanthakoummane Rd

www.ministryofsilk.com

http://www.artofmekong.com/

021 213 467

021 213 776

021-216 592

CAROL CASSIDY TEXTILES

Elegant Boutique

Mulberries Shop

Noekummane Rd, Ban Mixay

No. 103, Pangkham Street

Nokeokoummane Road, Mixai Village.

www.laotextiles.com

021 215 437

http://www.mulberries.org/

0 21- 212 123

FINER THINGS 34/03 Francois Ngin Rd

021 241 217, 021 263 371

Satri Lao Silk 79/4 Setthathirath Road http://www.satrilao.laopdr. 021 219 295

Treasures of Asia

LUANG PRABANG Gallery Asiama Vat Nong House No. 41 http://www.asiama.fr/ facebook.com/Mani-Beauty-Spa

Kopnoi Ban Aphay http://kopnoi.com/ 071 260 248

Naga Creations Savangvong Road 020 7777 5005

PHOSI MARKET

OCK POP TOK

Kopnoi

Photisalath Rd, south of Phou Vao Road

Sakkarine Rd, Ban Vat Sene

Ban Aphay

7am - 5pm

www.ockpoptok.com

http://kopnoi.com/

071 253 219

071 260 248

CAMA CRAFTS Ounkham Rd, Ban Wath Nong www.camacrafts.org 071 254 594

CARUSO LAO

TAEC Boutique Kitsalat Rd, Ban Khamyong

Pathana Boupha Antique House

www.taeclaos.org

26/2 Ban Visoun

071 253 364

071 212 262

Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ETRANGER BOOKS & TEA

Kin Thong Lao Silk

99/01 Nam Phou Square

Phousi Rd, Ban Aphay

48/3 Sakkaline Road

www.carusolao.com

071 212 880

020 5554 6184

071 254 574

MA TE SAI

PASSA PAA

Sisangvong Rd, Ban Xieng Mouane

79 Ban Vat Sene

www.matesai.com

www.passa-paa.com

071 260 654

020 5541 1244

NIGHT MARKET

Dara Market Kingkitsarath Rd

Garden of Eden Shop

SIsangvong Rd

Phanluang Village

5pm - 11pm

071 410 456

SLEEP - Listing

VIENTIANE GrEEN PArk BouTIquE hoTEl 12 Khouvieng Road www.greenparkvientiane.com 021 264 097

ANSArA hoTEl Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha www.ansarahotel.com 021 213 514

mANdAlA BouTIquE hoTEl Baan Phiavat mandalahotel.asia 021 214 493

PhASouk rESIdENcE

VIENTIANE PlAzA hoTEl

Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha

6 Pang Kham Street

www.phasoukresidence.com

accorhotels.com

www.vientianeplazalao.com

021 243 415

021 213 570,

020 2300 0433

IhouSE

SETTHA PALACE hoTEl

SAlANA BouTIquE hoTEl

Quai Fa Ngum, Ban Vat Chan Tha

6 Pang Kham Street

112 Chao Anou Road

www.ihouse-laos.com

www.setthapalace.com

salanaboutique.com

021 217 053

021 217 581

021 254 254

chANThAPANYA hoTEl Baan Phiavat

AuBErGE SAlA INPENG

rAShmIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PlAzA hoTEl

63/6 Inpeng Street, Ban Wat Chanh

Thadeua Rd, Ban Beungkhayong

www. chanthapanyahotel.com

salalao.com/Sala_ Inpeng

www.rashmishotel.com.

021 244 284

021 242 021

021 315 088

lAo PlAzA hoTEl

VIENTIANE GArdEN hoTEl

doN chAN PAlAcE

56 Sihome Road, Ban Sihome

Unit 6 Piwat Village, Sisatanak District

www.laoplazahotel.com

vientianegardenhotel.com

donchanpalacelaopdr.com

021 218 800

021 241 963

021 244 288

63 Samsenthai Road

Somerset Vientiane

mErcurE VIENTIANE

57/4 Wat Xieng Gneun Road

Beau Rivage Mekong Hotel

Best Western Vientiane Hotel

Souphanouvong Avenue, Sikhotabong district

Fangum Road, Ban Sithanneua,

2-12 Francois Nginn Street, Ban Mixay

http://www.somerset.com/

www.hbrm.com

www.bestwesternvientiane.com

021 250 888

021 243 350, 243 375-6

021 216906-9

Lao Silk Hotel Rue Francois Ngin 021 213 976

Ansara Hotel Quai Fa Gnum, Ban Vat Chan Tha www.ansarahotel.com 021 213 514

Sengtawan Riverside Hotel Unit 3, Sithan Nuea Village http://sengtawan.com/ 021 219.362 - 5

City Inn Vientiane

Cosmo Hotel

Dhavara Boutique Hotel

Corner of Phangkham and Phainam Street

Ban Pakao

25 Manthalath Road , Ban Xieng Ngeun

www.cityinnvientiane.com

www.hotelcosmolao.com

dhavaraboutiquehotel.com

021 218333

021 711175-7

021 222238

Dork Champa Hotel

Family Hotel

Kamphengmeuang Boulevard (T4 Road)

Pangkham Road, Sysaketh Village

www.dorkjumpahotel.com

www.familyhotellaos.com

021 331888

021 260448-9

Lao Orchid Hotel

Mali Namphu Hotel

Chao Anou Rd.,Vat Chanh

109 Pangkham Road, Xiengngeun Village

www.lao-orchid.com

www.malinamphu.com

021 264 134

021 215093

Phonethip Plaza Hotel

Sabaidee @ Lao Hotel

ibis Hotel Namphu Ban Xieng Ngneung 021 263 201

Douang Deuane Hotel Rue Nokeokoummane 021 222 300

Seasons Riverside hotel

Unit 16, Beung Kha Nhong Village

Pangkham Rd, Sisaket Village

25, Fa Ngum Road, Ban Sithane Neua

facebook.com/phonethip.plaza.hotel.laos

www.sabaideeatlaohotel.com

http://www.seasonsriverside.com/

021 261591

021 265141-2, 265152

021 214-521

Vansana Riverside Hotel

Landmark Mekong Riverside

Angkham Hotel

Ban Sithane Neua

Thathkhao Village, Sisattanak District

Kaysone Phomvihanh Road

www.vansanahotel-group.com

http://www.landmarkmekonghotel.com.la/

www.angkhamhotel.com

021 252 090-7

021 266 888

021 900 011-20

SLEEP - Listing

LUANG PRABANG 3 NAGAS hoTEl

Ock Pop Tok Me kong Villa

Sakkaline Road, Ban Vat Nong

3-nagas.com

ockpoptok.com

071 253 888

071 212 597

lE SEN BouTIquE hoTEl

The Apsara

113 Manomai Road, Ban Mano

Ban Phanluang

lesenhotel.com

theapsara.com

071 261 668

071 254 252

VIllA mAlY hoTEl

Satri House

113 Manomai Road, Ban Mano

57 Photisarath Road, Ban Thatluang

villa-maly.com

satrihouse.com

071 253 902

071 253 491,

Treasure Hotel Laos

Le Bel Air Boutique Resort & Villa

Belmond La RĂŠsidence Phou Vao

Norasan Road, Ban That Luang

1 Old Bridge

http://www.treasurehotellaos.com/

http://www.lebelairhotels.com/

belmond.com

071 260 661

071 254 699, 213 079

071 71 212530

THE BELLERIVE BOUTIQUE HOTEL

The Luang Say Residence

MAISON SOUVANNAPHOUM

99 Baan Phonehueang, Riverfront

4-5 Ban Phonepheng

Rue Chao Fa Ngum, Banthatluang

http://www.thebellerive.com/

http://www.luangsayresidence.com/

http://www.angsana.com/

071 260 733

071 260 891

071 254 609

Kiridara

Le Palais Juliana

Muang thong hotel

22/13 North Road, Ban Naviengkham

Chao Phetsalath Street, Ban-Sangkalok

Oupalathkhamboua Rd., Ban Thatluang,

http://www.snhcollection.com/kiridara/

http://www.lepalaisjuliana.com/

http://www.muangthonghotel.com/

071 261 888

071 260 417

071 254 976

VANGVIENG Riverside Boutique Resort

Inthira Vang Vieng Ban Savang, Vang Vieng

Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng

http://www.riversidevangvieng.com/

http://www.inthira.com/

http://www.villavangvieng.com/

023 511 726-8

023 511 070

023 511 188

The Elephant Crossing Hotel

Vansana Vang Vieng Hotel

Vieng Tara Villa

PO Box 5512, Vang Vieng

Ban sysavang, Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng

http://www.theelephantcrossinghotel.com/

http://www.vansanahotel-group.com/

http://www.viengtara.com/

023 511 232, 023 511 634

023 511 598-9

020 5551 8155

Villa Nam Song

Villa Vang Vieng Riverside

Ban Viengkeo, PO 360 Vang Vieng

THAVONSOUK Resort

Ban ViengKeo, Vang Vieng

P.O.BOX 2715 , Vang Vieng

http://www.villanamsong.com/

http://www.thavonsouk.com/

023 511 637

023 511 096, 511 215

SAVANNAKHET Daosavanh Resort & Spa

Savan Vegas Hotel and Casino

Ban Thahea Kaisonephomvihan District

Nongdeune Village

http://www.daosavanh.com/

www.savanvegas.com

041-252 188, 252 199

041-252 200.

Rattanasavan Hotel

SALA SAVANH

Xayamoungkhoun Village

salalao.com

041 212 211

020 5564 5111

Hoongthip Hotel Thameung Village 041 212 262.

LEENA GUESTHOUSE Chaokeem Rd leenaguesthouse.blogspot.com 020 9927 4994

Savanbanhao Hotel

Nongsoda Guest House

Soulinsouk Guest House

Xaiyaphoum Village, Saenna Road

Thameung Village

Sounantha Village, opposite with Bus Station

041 212 202.

041212 522

041 213 436

CHAMPASAK WATERFALL RESORT BAN E-TU PAKSONG

SINOUK COFFEE RESORT

CHAMPASAK GRAND HOTEL

LakKhao Village, Paksong-Thateng Road

Lao Nippon Bridge, Mekong Riverside Road

waterfalletupaksong.com

sinoukcoffeeresort.com

http://www.champasakgrand.com/

020 2866 2809

030 955 8960

031 255111-8, 260211

PAKSE HOTEL

Champasak Palace Hotel

Mekong Paradise Resort

Street 5, Ban Watkouang

P.O Box 718, Pakse

Ban Nonhsavang

hotelpakse.com

http://www.champasakpalacehotel.com/

031 254 120

031 212 131

Inthira Hotel

Residence Sisouk

The River Resort Champasak

Ban Vat Amard, Champasak District

Ban Lakmuang

Ban Phaphinnoy, 14A Rd., Champasak

http://www.inthira.com/

http://www.residence-sisouk.com/

http://theriverresortlaos.com/

031 511011

031 214716

030 95 68306

La Folie Lodge Done Daeng, District Pathoumphone http://lafolie-laos.com/ 020 55 532 004

A Stylish Budget Accommodation Option in Luang Prabang

The Ultimate Relaxation Hideaway FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CONTACT:

125 Unit 7, Bane Vixoun, Luang Prabang, Lao PDR Tel: +856 (0) 71 212 642, +856 (0) 71 252 933 www.tropicaloasispark.com

Exceptional Green Season and Lao Resident Promotions

Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng Vientiane Province, Lao PDR Phone: +856 (0)23 511 726-8 Fax: +856 (0)23 511 729 Email: info@riversidevangvieng.com www.riversidevangvieng.com