Avani has arrived in UNESCO World Heritage-listed Luang Prabang.

The brand’s Laotian debut, Avani+ Luang Prabang (www.minorhotels.com/en/avani/luang-prabang), takes over the 1914 French colonial building formerly belonging to Azerai (Aman Resorts founder Adrian Zecha’s boutique chain). Not a whole lot appears to have changed in the handover—and that’s a good thing.

Spread across just two stories, the hotel’s 53 rooms (from B5,644/night) combine simple lines with the occasional local flourish. Wooden furniture and teak flooring paint an understated picture, while French louvered doors open onto a private terrace overlooking the hotel courtyard and pool.

A bistro offers up French and local flavors, while a bar pairs street views with cocktails made with potent Laotian spirits. 

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