Sabaidee! Welcome to our July edition of the Laos Product Update!
This month, we’re excited to share fresh and immersive experiences in Laos, from luxury river cruising in the mighty Mekong, to eco-glamping, and rediscovering the Vat Phou temple, recently recognized by National Geographic as Laos’ Pre-Angkor marvel.
Other excellent news: Hin Nam No NPA (Central Laos) becomes Laos’ 4th UNESCO site! Home to the Xe Bang Fai cave, our off-the – beaten-path brochure will take you travelling through time within a wondrous world of underground river caverns, karst mountains, endemic flora and fauna, secluded communities and dramatic landscapes.
We also bring you the latest hotel updates and promotions, as well as a major travel development with the reopening of Xieng Khouang Airport.
Whether you’re curating nature getaways, responsible travel experiences, or remote cultural explorations, we hope this PDU inspires new possibilities for your travellers!
Zar Yi Hnin, EXO Laos Destination Experience Manager.
Product updates
The Bohème Cruise
by Mekong Kingdoms
4 Days / 3 Nights
Luang Prabang - Vientiane
Upstream or Downstream
- Cruise the remote and scenic upper Mekong River in refined style
- Explore Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage gem
- Discover local crafts: pottery, weaving, and paper-making
- Enjoy intimate onboard experiences – wellness, dining, culture
Khammouane Caves Exploration
10 Days / 9 Nights
- Explore Tham Kong Lo and Xe Bang Fai Caves’ majestic underground river journeys
- Get the chance to discover endemic fauna in the recently UNESCO-listed Hin Nam No National Protected Area.
- Camp under the stars by serene Thalang Reservoir
- Travel along the Ho Chi Minh Trail to meet local communities
Treasures of Southern Laos
4 Days / 3 Nights
- Discover the beauty of Vat Phou, a pre-Angkor marvel
- Sample coffee grown on the Boloven Plateau
- Take a boat through the 4000 islands
- Visit local communities
Plain of Jars
3 Days / 2 Nights
- Step back in time at the mysterious UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars and uncover its ancient legends
- Gain powerful insights into Laos’ recent history at the UXO Information Centre
- Discover the old capital of Muang Khoun, featuring ruined pagodas and a unique sitting giant Buddha.
Hotel updates
The Namkhan
Luang Prabang
Peacefully nestled along the banks of the Nam Khan River, The Namkhan is a serene eco sanctuary located just a 15-minute drive from the heart of Luang Prabang. This unique property combines sustainable living with refined comfort, offering a range of accommodations including elegant suites and stylish glamping tents.
Guests can unwind with a variety of wellness experiences—from yoga sessions and kayaking to immersive visits at the on-site organic farm. Additional facilities include an infinity pool, a rejuvenating spa, and a farm-to-table restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced cuisine.
Perfect for travellers seeking tranquility, nature, and meaningful experiences close to town.
Avani+
Luang Prabang
Avani+ Luang Prabang is a stylish and contemporary hotel located in the heart of Luang Prabang’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. With 53 thoughtfully designed rooms, the property seamlessly blends the rich cultural heritage of Luang Prabang with modern comfort and convenience.
Including a spacious outdoor swimming pool, a rejuvenating on-site spa, and a refined restaurant offering a selection of local and international cuisine.
Winter Promotion:
- Booking period: Now until 31 March 2026
- Stay period: From 1 October 2025 to 31 March 2026
- Blackout dates: 20 December 2025 to 4 January 2026 (inclusive)
The promotion includes a minimum stay of 1 night, with the added value of either one Lao or Western Set Lunch/Dinner or a 60-minute Spa Treatment for up to 2 persons per room.
For detailed promotional rates, please contact EXO consultant with your clients’ travel dates to receive a personalized quote.
Destination News
Special promotion from Boheme Cruise
Boheme cruise offers EXO a special rate for any booking for the sailing during 1 October 2025 – 30 November 2025. For detailed Departure Dates, please visit Bohème’s official website here.
Please contact EXO consultant with your clients’ travel dates to receive a personalized quote.
Reopening of Xieng Khouang Airport – Now Accessible by Air Again!
We’re pleased to inform you that Xieng Khouang Airport (XKH) in Phonsavan has officially reopened as of 1st June 2025, marking a positive step forward for travel to this historically rich region of Laos.
After a long period of suspension, daily flights between Vientiane (VTE) and Xieng Khouang have now resumed, with Lao Airlines. This makes it much easier for travellers to visit the UNESCO-listed Plain of Jars and surrounding areas.
Flight Schedule (Operated by Lao Airlines – ATR aircraft):
QV 401 | VTE → XKH | 09:00 – 09:35
QV 402 | XKH → VTE | 10:15 – 10:50
Please note: At this time, there are no direct flights between Luang Prabang (LPQ) and Xieng Khouang, and no new plans have been announced for this route.
Why Visit Now?
Reconnect your travellers with the powerful history and cultural intrigue of Phonsavan:
- Wander among the mysterious Plain of Jars (UNESCO-listed)
- Reflect at the UXO Information Centre
- Enjoy the tranquil rural scenery of northeastern Laos
Perfect for FITs and heritage travellers looking to go off the beaten path in Laos!
Get in touch with our team for updated programs or custom itineraries.
We’ll continue to monitor updates closely and keep you informed of any future developments. For now, this route offers a great opportunity to reintroduce Phonsavan into your clients’ itineraries!
La Résidence Phou Vao Announces Full Refurbishment – Temporary Closure from July to October 2025
We are delighted to share some exciting news regarding the next chapter for La Résidence Phou Vao – one of Luang Prabang’s most iconic and beloved properties.
As part of the hotel’s continued commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, a full refurbishment of all guest rooms will take place starting 01 July through the end of September 2025. This carefully planned project aims to enhance comfort and luxury, while remaining deeply respectful of the property’s heritage and tranquil charm.
The new room design will preserve the soul and elegance of the original concept, while incorporating fresh, thoughtful touches that reflect both contemporary sensibilities and traditional Lao influences. The updated spaces promise to delight returning guests and impress new visitors alike.
To ensure renovations are completed to the highest standard without disrupting the guest experience, the hotel will be temporarily closed during the refurbishment period. This decision allows for a seamless transformation, free from construction noise or service limitations.
We greatly appreciate your ongoing support and understanding during this transition. We will keep you informed of the progress and look forward to welcoming you and your clients back once the enhancements are complete. We can’t wait to personally show you the first newly renovated room when it’s ready!
Visa Reminders for Laos: What Travellers Need to Know in 2025
Laos has recently updated its visa policies, making travel to this stunning Southeast Asian destination even more accessible. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the latest developments:
Visa on Arrival (VOA) availability
As of early 2025, 28-day Visas on Arrival (VOA) are once again available at all international land and air borders across Laos.
- Visa Fee: The standard VOA fee has been updated to USD 40 per person, with an additional USD 1 service charge.
- Eligible Nationalities: Most passport holders are eligible to obtain a VOA without prior arrangements.
E-Visa Platform Open for Easy Access
Travellers seeking a smoother arrival experience can opt for an e-visa, available through the official government portal: https://www.laoevisa.gov.la/index
- Processing Time: Typically approved within 3 business days.
- Validity: 30-day single-entry tourist visa.
- Entry Points for E-Visa:
- Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
- Luang Prabang International Airport (Luang Prabang)
- Pakse International Airport (Champasak)
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane)
- Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge II (Savannakhet)
Additionally, VIP VOA service is available at Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse airports, offering faster processing for travelers who prefer expedited entry.
Laos is waiting to welcome you — now with even easier access for global travellers.
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