Laotian Serendipity on Anouvong

Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel, The Riverie by Katathani Chiang Rai. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.

Pick up at your hotel lobby around 6:30am for the journey to Chiang Kong border, approximately two hours away. Heritage Line assists with Thai Immigration formalities (open from 9am to 9:30am) before crossing into Laos.

Upon clearing Lao Immigration, transfer to Huay Xai Pier where check-in for the 'Anouvong' cruise begins. Once aboard, the captain sets course along the Upper Mekong. An expert guide provides insights into Laos' diverse ethnic groups living along the river. Stops include a modern village of Tai Lu, where guests participate in a Baci ceremony led by local elders. The cruise continues to Huay Ting for an overnight stay on a scenic sandbank, featuring a welcome cocktail and dinner amid stunning natural surroundings. (B,L,D)

Each morning, you are invited to join a sunrise yoga class on the terrace deck, overlooking the majestic Mekong River. The journey continues with a morning arrival in Pakbeng, home to Laos' well-managed elephant sanctuary. You'll have the opportunity to visit these elephants, once used for logging and now living in a sanctuary that preserves their natural habitat. Due to their history as working animals, they remain in the sanctuary for their well-being and safety, showcasing the sanctuary's commitment to ecotourism and sustainability.

After lunch, participate in a bamboo weaving workshop, learning this traditional craft and creating your own bamboo basket to take home. As the afternoon sailing begins, enjoy picturesque views along the river until you arrive at a village inhabited by three distinct ethnic groups: Hmong, Lao Loum, and Khamo. Explore the village, visit a family home, and learn about each group's unique customs and way of life.

Evenings onboard feature a bar gathering with snacks and a preview of the next day's activities. You'll be treated to a traditional "Kene" flute performance by local villagers on the terrace deck before dinner, immersing in the hypnotic melodies of this traditional instrument. After dinner, unwind in the lounge with a screening of "Chiang," a classic film shot in the region in 1927, setting the stage for the next day's adventures. (B,L,D)

As the cruise sails towards Luang Prabang through the Golden Triangle, relax or attend a presentation exploring the region's complex history, including colonialism, the opium trade, and geopolitical dynamics involving Burma, Thailand, Laos, Britain, and China.

The morning visit takes us to Kok Luang village, home to the Khum people, known for their simple bamboo huts and rice fields. Engage with local families, and learn about their agricultural livelihoods and daily routines. In the afternoon, the cruise reaches the Pak Ou Caves along the Mekong's rocky shore, housing around 4,000 Buddhist statues. Explore the lower cave, known for its impressive collection.

After visiting the caves, you can opt for a kayak tour along the Nam Ou River or visit Ban Muang Keo village, renowned for traditional silk weaving. There, you may meet a local "medicine man" who shares insights into traditional herbal treatments. You'll arrive early in the evening in Luang Prabang. There's an opportunity for a leisurely stroll through the town after dinner, soaking in its tranquil atmosphere. (B,L,D)

After breakfast, go on a walking tour of Luang Prabang’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the old town and its scenic peninsula, where the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers meet. Discover Luang Prabang’s unique architecture and learn about its historical landmarks. Wander along quaint streets lined with antique buildings and mango trees, pausing at the historic ‘Lamache’ house for a traditional Lao Tea Break. Return to the ship for lunch.

In the afternoon, explore Luang Prabang’s cultural heritage with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the former Royal Palace. View local art and historical artefacts once belonging to the Lao royal family. Afterwards, enjoy free time in the city centre or relax at a street café. In the evening, dine at the renowned ‘Le Caloa’ restaurant with entertainment, then return to the ship to rest or explore further, including a visit to the lively Night Market. (B,L,D)

Before sunrise, witness the traditional Lao Buddhist alms-giving ceremony, "Tak Bat," where hundreds of monks clad in saffron robes participate in a serene procession - a deeply ingrained cultural practice in Luang Prabang.

Depart Luang Prabang and continue downstream on the Mekong River. The first stop is the innovative Laos Buffalo Dairy Farm, which has transformed local dairy production, offering cheeses, ice cream, and yoghurt from locally sourced ingredients.

Next, journey to the stunning Kuang Si waterfalls, where a leisurely hike leads to turquoise pools perfect for a refreshing swim. Return to the ship and cruise towards the Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam, Laos' pioneering dam and power plant. Learn about its significance to Laos' economy and its role as a potential energy hub in Southeast Asia through an insightful lecture. Dock near the dam for an early passage the next day. Enjoy dinner aboard the ship followed by a classic movie screening in the lounge cinema. (B,L,D)

In the morning, observe the towering Xayaburi Hydroelectric Dam, standing at 32.6m (107ft), as the ship navigates its impressive structure with the help of a large water gate. Enjoy two onboard activities during the morning sail: a lecture on the history of Lao royalty, focusing on King Anouvong after whom our vessel is named, and a cooking class featuring a Lao-Thai dish to learn and enjoy.

In the afternoon, as the shorelines become rockier, the ship reaches Don Saynhan. disembark and explore the area via local "Tuk Tuk," travelling inland to visit the Khao Cave nestled in lush jungle surroundings. The cave, inhabited by a longstanding bat population, plays a vital role as a fertiliser source for the village and offers views of stalagmites and stalactites. The ship will moor here overnight. Join the crew for pre-dinner snacks at the bar with insights from your guide about the next day's activities. Spend the evening on deck or opt for post-dinner reflexology for a relaxing end to the day. (B,L,D)

On the final full day, the expedition takes you to the village of Pha Liep, nestled amidst majestic limestone mountains. Here, the Lao Loum community thrives on agriculture. Explore two distinctive activities - first, witness the meticulous craftsmanship involved in building traditional longtail boats, essential for transportation in Laos. Despite its "factory" label, the process remains labour-intensive and manual.

Next, visit a local whisky distillery, where the owner not only oversees quality but ensures a steady supply of this national staple. Lao whisky is widely enjoyed, especially mixed in the classic "Laotian whisky cola." After these cultural experiences, continue sailing along the gentle currents of the Mekong to a remote sandbar for the night. Enjoy a cocktail reception and a romantic barbecue dinner under the Laotian sky, celebrating the memories made along the Mekong. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a final morning onboard with a Yoga session on the deck at sunrise. Breakfast will be served on the terrace deck, weather permitting, providing panoramic views as we sail towards Pak Lay.

Check-out is at 9am, bidding farewell to the crew and fellow travellers. Transfer to Vientiane with an estimated arrival in the city around 12:30pm. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

• Hotel Description

Explore Vientiane's key landmarks starting with Wat Sisaket, the city's oldest monastery known for its numerous Buddha statues. Learn about Hor Pha Keo's turbulent history, destroyed twice by ancient Thai invaders. Discover Pha That Luang, Laos' national symbol adorned with gold leaves and surrounded by smaller stupas. Marvel at its intricate frescoes. Ascend Patouxai, Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe, offering insights into its French colonial past. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant sampling Lao cuisine before heading back to your hotel for some time at leisure. (B,L)

• Hotel Description

After breakfast, visit to the COPE Centre, an organisation committed to supporting individuals with mobility-related disabilities in Laos by providing access to physical rehabilitation services. Founded with a mission to assist those affected by unexploded ordnance (UXO) and other causes of disability, COPE plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for many in the Lao PDR. Visitors to the centre learn about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Laos and the efforts made to enhance their mobility and independence through prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. The COPE Centre also educates the public about the ongoing issue of UXO contamination in Laos, stemming from the Vietnam War era, which continues to pose risks to local communities.

Continuing the journey, the next stop is the Lao Textile Museum, where you can learn the intricate art of Lao silk weaving. Lao silk is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional beauty and meticulous craftsmanship. The weaving techniques employed are amongst the most sophisticated in the region, requiring both perseverance and artistic talent to produce exquisite fabrics. These textiles not only showcase natural dye colours but also depict the cultural richness of Laos, capturing elements of daily life, environmental surroundings, and spiritual beliefs through intricate patterns and designs. The museum offers a deeper appreciation of how traditional weaving techniques have persisted through generations, preserving a legacy of craftsmanship that continues to inspire admiration and fascination amongst visitors and textile enthusiasts alike. Transfer back to the hotel afterwards for some free time. (B,L)

• Hotel Description

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK. (B)