Since Laos first decided to open its doors to tourists it has swiftly risen in the travel rankings to become one of the region's top destinations. Rapid commercial development has brought major upgrades to infrastructure and made access to the country's more  remote areas much easier. This means that more and more international travellers now include this once remote country in their travel itinerary and the country's most popular locations can be very busy during peak tourist season.

Luang Prabang is the most visited destination in Laos. The ancient capital remains a supremely romantic place to visit year round with breathtaking golden temples, saffron-robed monks, and grand colonial buildings combining to create one of South East Asia's most enthralling but laid back holiday choices.

Contemporary influences abound with streetside cafes, luxurious colonial hotels like Luangsay residence and upmarket restaurants all adding to the overall appeal. Tourism is definitely changing Luang Prabang, but the World Heritage city somehow manages to retain an air of old world charm and spiritual peace, all surrounded by a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery.

Beyond Luang Prabang on of the best ways to explore the Laos countryside is by taking a cruise along the mighty Mekong river. This offers glimpses of traditional village life, as well as the chance to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the countryside and to look out for wildlife along the river banks. Other places of interest include Vang Vieng, a riverside retreat that mainly draws backpackers who descend on the town in numbers to chill out, meet friends and enjoy themselves amid the stunning limestone scenery. The northern provinces such as Phongsali are also developing into major tourist destinations and particularly appeal to hikers, but for now the facilities and amenities in these areas remain basic, which means only the truly independent traveller would enjoy their rustic simplicity.

In the south of Laos, Don Khon and Don Dhet, two delightful islands in Mekong River are become major tourist attractions. A good  range of hotels  and restaurants are opening on the islands to cater to the increasing numbers of visitors who go there to relax and experience a more gentle pace of life.

For those who appreciate more upbeat surroundings, Vientiane, the Lao capital is a treasure trove of sights and sounds. A bustling metropolis by Lao standards but very easy to explore and still much less  intense than many other Asian cities. The riverside location means visitors never feel cramped and with a number of important temples and monuments to visit, tourists have plenty to keep them occupied between shopping and eating fine food. The architecture in Vientiane is an intriguing combination of Asian, French and Russian styles, based on the city's colourful history. In the main tourist area, several French colonial buildings have been refurbished and now serve as luxury hotels and top class restaurants. Visitors can therefore enjoy a sophisticated stay, but with easy access to the city's bustling local markets and urban villages.