Luang Prabang

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At a Glance

In an historic garden estate in the center of Luang Prabang—the northern Laotian town and UNESCO World Heritage site on a peninsula between the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers—Amantaka is housed in French colonial buildings set around a large, central pool. This tranquil retreat, with just 24 spacious and elegantly unadorned suites, offers ample opportunities for rest and reflection between curated experiences like a Baci Laotian blessing, a sunset longtail boat trip down the Mekong and visits to the night market and to local artisans. The property’s new Buddhist Learning Centre provides a primer on Buddhism and its teachings, and interested guests are encouraged to spend time here—and are given an offering to bring to a temple. A stay at Amantaka feels like the most spiritual way to experience this deeply spiritual place.

The Standout: The thoughtfully chosen experiences offered to guests on-property and at Amantaka’s newly built Buddhist Learning Centre
Don’t Miss: The moving and hushed sight of Tak Bat, when the saffron-clad Buddhist monks of the local monasteries walk through the streets of Luang Prabang for sunrise alms

Indagare Loves

• The property’s location within easy walking distance of the town’s buzzing center
• The expansive spa with private treatment suites that have their own pools
• A sunset cruise down the Mekong complete with drinks and snacks

Amantaka Review

Originally the Aman group had wanted to take over and convert a primary school further in town but when the deal fell through, the company settled on the defunct former hospital, which occupies some six acres. It’s arguably a better location, in easy walking distance to the town’s buzzing heart but far enough removed that guests feel a sense of space and serenity. Fifteen white-washed buildings with low red-tile roofs (10 are original Colonial structures) are clustered around a massive green courtyard with a large pool and terrace. Sixteen of the suites also come with their own small plunge pools. Interiors of the 24 rooms and suites are serene and minimalist (Aman-style), with tile floors, polished wooden furniture, including four-post beds, embroidered throws and original photography and art, which add touches of color. The bathroom areas are enormous and many come with freestanding bathtubs.

If you come expecting southeast Asian lushness, you will be disappointed. The Aman is sleek and understated to a fault (many locals expressed wonder about why travelers would pay the hefty price tag for a look so sparse). But anyone familiar with the Aman brand knows that the luxury is in the details and the service. The resort offers private excursions to sights like the Pak Ou Caves, can organize textile weaving and cooking classes and prepares a special experience for guests who want to partake in the early morning alms offering. The resort also has a program of guests speakers, including local artists, designers and monks, who give fascinating overviews of the rich Laotian culture. The spa is fabulous and a small gym is also on-property. For travelers who enjoy design and appreciate extra hand-holding, this property is a good match.

Who Should Stay

Couples and families who want to stay at one of the loveliest properties in town

Spotlight: Buddhism 101

Luang Prabang’s famous “Tak Bat” takes place every morning around 5:30 a.m. More than 1,000 monks and novices from the 30-plus surrounding temples accept alms (sticky rice) from the locals. It’s usually still dark and quiet at this time, when suddenly, all you hear is the sound of bare feet, and then the group appears single file—a beautiful and humbling sight. Thanks to the Aman’s new Buddhist Learning Centre, guests can attend this ritual with a new, immersive understanding. Daily private classes in Buddhism are offered, where guests can learn about the five principals of good living and more.

Author

• Indagare