Luang Prabang, Laos: The Unexpected Gem I’d Add to Your Southeast Asia Itinerary

• Just walk: Wandering is an activity. Explore the old town on foot, duck into temples, browse textile shops and stop whenever you see a café that looks inviting. The UNESCO designation isn't just a label here. Luang Prabang's historic townscape is remarkably well preserved, with Lao traditional architecture and French colonial buildings existing side by side.

• Visit the temples and the Royal Palace Museum: There are temples everywhere, and that's part of the magic. Pick a few that interest you, take your time and appreciate the details rather than trying to photograph every wat in town. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the standouts and can easily be paired with a visit to the nearby Royal Palace Museum along the walking route. But don't overlook the smaller neighborhood temples. If you're up for a stair climb, Mount Phousi gives you a completely different perspective over the town and its rivers.

• Morning alms ceremony: Watching the monks make their morning alms rounds is one of Luang Prabang's most recognizable experiences. Consider crossing the river and finding a more residential street rather than joining the stadium seating and crowds along the main tourist route. Although a smaller experience, I was the only tourist there, and it was beyond special. If you observe, do so quietly and respectfully; if you participate in giving alms, follow local guidance carefully.

• Half-day to Kuang Si Waterfalls and Save the Bears: The turquoise pools of Kuang Si are absolutely worth doing. Pair it with a stop at the bear rescue center, which made the day about more than simply taking the obligatory waterfall photo. Bring your swimsuit, as you're allowed to swim in two of the pools.

• UXO Lao Visitor Center: A small, straightforward museum documenting the devastating legacy of unexploded ordnance in Laos and the ongoing work to clear it. The stories are difficult, and I admit, I cried. But it was also one of the most meaningful experiences of my visit.

• Add a little indulgence: After all that walking, opt for some spontaneous pampering. A one-hour massage or foot massage can cost around 120,000 kip—roughly US$6.

• Sunset cruise on the Mekong: Slow things down at the end of the day with a sunset cruise and watch Luang Prabang's temples, mountains and riverside life take on a completely different feel.

• MandaLao Elephant Conservation: MandaLao offers non-riding experiences focused on elephant welfare and education.

Come to Luang Prabang for the food, the pastries and the baguettes. I was genuinely surprised by how good the Lao cuisine was—and delighted to discover that the French influence has left behind some seriously good bakeries.

• Little Lao: Elegant, charming space with lovely, crafted cocktails (I'm obsessed with the Bee's Knees—a gin, honey and lime combination). They offer a huge selection of jeow dips (I chose a less adventurous galangal and chili-based one) and local dishes like ground pork with vermicelli, lime and chili.

• Dyen Sabai: Beautiful location across the river with Western-style and traditional Lao seating overlooking the river. Try the Mok Pa (steamed fish in banana leaf).

• The Happy Cat (Vegetarian): Great option with a wide selection of flavorful vegetarian dishes.

• Night Food Market: Crepes, fruits and BBQ are easy to find. For the more adventurous, venture down the side alleys where tourists and locals sit side by side trying dishes like noodles, lam (buffalo stew) and vegetarian options.

• Ori Bakery: Located right in the night market, you can sit and enjoy the atmosphere or stop by and pick up some of their way too moor-ish donuts or pastries to go.