Open: February 2011
Luang Say Residence is the new luxury resort in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang and is already buzzing at the top of the Trip Advisor charts. Located at the foot of Luang Prabang mountains, the sprawling resort counts twenty 43-sq-meter Pioneer Suites and four 74-sq-meter Explorateur Suites. The five colonial pavilions and a main residence building are, of course, in 19th century colonial style despite modern amenities like cable (Thai channels, too!) and Wi-Fi.

Rave: The rooms are all en-suite types with white wooden furniture, writing desks to pen your great colonial novel and a cozy ambience. The most romantic element would be the king-size bed with its requisite mosquito net. Private, quiet and with great views of the mountain, this is a great getaway. Other than a stunning view of the mountain, the bakery is a must-try.

Rant: If you’re going to fly to Luang Prabang, you’re probably more interested in the town than holing up in a resort—so it’s too bad that Luang Say is a short drive from the action. Also, the pool, despite its tres tres chic bamboo howdah (elephant saddles), is very exposed to surrounding rooms, so that swimming here is a tres tres public affair.

Neighborhood: See above. Use the hotel shuttle or hop on a motor taxi aka a skylap to bring you in town. The price is up to negotiation.

Food and drinks: French and Asian dishes at La Belle Epoque restaurant, drinks at 1861 bar and that fantastic bakery.

Price: Pioneer Suites B3,590 and Explorateur Suites B4,890 per night until Sep 30, 2011. Or get a package with Mekong Cruise for 2-days-1 night on a boat and two nights at the hotel: package starts from B9,620-B10,570 net per person.
4-5 Ban Phonepheng, Luang Prabang, Laos. +857 (0) 71-260-891, www.luangsayresidence.com