The people of Laos are so genuine and the children in The Hmong hilltribe villages I visited were a highlight of my trip.<br /> <br /> Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Laotian culture with over 33 Wats (Buddhist temples) and former royal palaces is one of the few places that will deliver a truly unique and genuine Southeast Asia experience that will certainly give you pause to replenish your soul. <br /> <br /> Located in North Central Laos and surrounded by mountains at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers,  Luang Prabang is a harmonious fusion of crumbling French colonial architecture, breathtaking natural beauty, magnificent temples and wonderful genuine people making it a great place for spiritual contemplation and rejuvenation.<br /> <br /> Buddhism permeates every facet of life. Imagine waking up every day to the sound of bells, gongs and drums followed by  morning alms with the monks from all the temples making their rounds around town. <br /> <br /> It is truly a magical place.
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