Maison Souvannaphoum
Luang Prabang, Laos
Once the residence of Prince Souvannaphouma, this hotel blends French colonial architecture with chic, contemporary design. Since Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, most upscale hotels are located outside of town in order to offer modern luxuries like swimming pools. Maison Souvannaphoum is the exception to the rule, equipped with a swimming pool and television sets, this is the only hotel of its kind in the town center. It has a fantastic Angsana Spa and the gift shop in the lobby is filled with unique handicrafts commissioned by the hotel and purchased directly from the artisans to support local business.
It's the best combination of location and luxury in town.
The flip side to a prime location is the din that accompanies it.
Book the Maison, Laos, or Champa room (all former bedrooms of the royal family) and receive a special welcome package reserved for Journeys Within guests.
When you're walking down a lovely tree lined street in Luang Prabang you should probably send your thanks for the shade to Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel! As part of the Banyan Tree Hotels this property has high expectations set by it's management and they seem to be meeting the goal and exceeding it. In 2009 Maison planted 2,243 trees in Luang Prabang, exceeding the goal of 2,000 trees. Working with members of the community to plant the trees is not only environmentally great, but it is helping teach awareness to the local community about the environment and what we can do to help.
Maison doesn't stop with the environment, in 2009 they also supported Sithane Primary School, where they repaired classroom ceilings, painted walls and doors, planted trees, repaired the school's fence, and shared health and hygiene techniques with administrators. The hotel also exhibited artwork sharing the local culture, with any sales benefiting the school.
Reviewed 2009