Yesterday afternoon, it was raining hard in our neighborhood. While watching the rain, my hubby said that he was remembering the rain and greenery in Laos. Although we only spent a few days, it left an indelible impression on all three of us.
Luang Prabang was inscribed on the World Heritage List in December 1994. It is recognized as an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional Lao architecture with that built by the European colonial authorities during the 19th and 20th centuries.
3 Nagas Luang Prabang is an example. It is located in three superbly restored UNESCO world heritage buildings, each over a hundred years old. The beautiful blending of French architecture and classic Lao design do evoke the era of colonial Indochina.
Khamboura House (which contained our room, pictured above) was built in 1903. The residence was painstakingly restored in 1995, along with the neighboring Lamache House, which was originally built for the royal court in 1898. Our room was comfortable and furnished in keeping with its history, but back to the rain.
After dinner, we retired to our room's private balcony (above) to enjoy the evening. The balcony overlooks the hotel gardens filled with mango and jackfruit trees. The air was fresh and the tropical greenery lush and enchanting. The pleasing end to an engaging day.
We were sitting on this deck when the skies opened and torrents of rain cascaded down. Monsoon season, also termed the green season, runs from May to October in Laos; we were there in June. The rain brings the landscape back to life after the long drought brought by the previous months. The sounds of the downpour of rain and the thunder rolling across the sky remain with me, and obviously with my hubby as well. Such a simple thing, yet so memorable, and even profound. I felt grateful to experience monsoon in this magical setting. Needless to say, we all slept well that night.
The next morning the sun was out and the breakfast served at 3 Nagas was just right. A number of items were out for guests to select; however, the mains were made to order, and there was an extensive choice of offerings.
True to form, I went for a more traditional American breakfast while my son went for a Laotian choice; everything was delicious. The restaurant at the hotel is highly rated and serves up fragrant Laotian cuisine with locally sourced, fresh ingredients for dinner.
The staff were friendly and helpful; we sort of felt like we were staying with family.
Of course, if you know me, you know I am all about location. 3 Nagas has a perfect location. Right on the main street; you can walk everywhere. Tak Bat almsgiving is right outside your room and you are in the center of Luang Prabang.