Kiridara Hotel - Luang Prabang

 

We stayed at Kiridara, a hotel set in the hills located a few minutes from the center of town. Though it is more convenient to stay in the center of town in any city, Kiridara ensured we had full access to the main area. Kiridara provided free, on-call shuttle service by tuk tuk or minivan to and from town. There was some construction nearby, but that did not interfere with our tranquil environment. There were many mornings I awoke to the chirping of the birds shortly after 5 am. One morning I even lounged by the poolside to watch the sunrise. I also viewed the sunset while relaxing in the pool, sipping my virgin piña colada. We enjoyed spectacular panoramic views of Mount Phu Si right from our bedroom window. Every inch of the hotel property was well kept, covered with greenery and flowers. Since we were there during the low season, there were just a handful of guests at the hotel. Instantly our stay became more of a retreat than a standard tourist vacation. No crowds, no noise…just serenity and quietude to hear yourself think. It was absolutely beautiful.

The room was simple and spacious. The hotel manager offered to upgrade us to a suite for minimal cost but we opted to stay with our original choice. He was kind enough to show us both rooms to assist in making our decision. Douglas smartly decided that we would be better off investing the additional money in ourselves than on a larger room. I hesitantly agreed because I was a bit impressed with the size and fancier amenities found in the suite. It was a good thing I followed Douglas’ lead; his decision was perfect for us. Our standard room provided everything we needed. The bed was the most comfortable hotel bed we had ever slept on (and we have slept on several hotel beds). The rain shower room was extremely spacious and our view from the balcony was perfect. We had no regrets after checking out on our final day.

Upon arrival we forgot to take a picture showing the full view of the room. This pic was taken the day we left.

Our hotel fee included breakfast each morning. Most hotels that have a complimentary breakfast or one worked into its nightly cost usually offer a continental or buffet-style breakfast. The Kiridara wowed us as we sat down for our first meal of the day and accepted an a la carte menu in which we could order anything. The waiter explained that all the items were made upon request and complimentary. We were floored because most hotels do not freshly prepare anything for free. That is what you call outstanding service! To top it off, the food was quite satisfying. 

This hibiscus juice was so good we had a glass every day.

Yogurt with freshly diced fruit and a swirl of honey. We had a bowl every morning.

French toast with a shot of maple syrup.

One of the activities I looked forward to the most while on vacation was swimming. I can stay in the water for hours. The majority of hotels in the city center did not have pools on their properties. This was just another reason why the Kiridara was the best choice for our stay. Its medium-sized infinity pool offering panoramic views of Mount Phu Si was an additional item that added to the hotels ambience. They even offered a poolside happy hour with discounted drinks every day from 5-7 pm.

For us being in the pool is not only about lounging, we love to have fun too!

We also love to pose for the camera...when I say we I really mean ME!

After swimming and playing in the pool, this is usually how we spent the end of each night.

I was also excited to practice riding a bike again. Douglas taught me how to ride when we met in 2008. Yes, you read that correctly – my husband first taught me how to ride a bike, then I forgot over the past six years from lack of riding, and now I was planning to learn again. Contrary to popular belief, not everyone knows how to ride a bike!

Show off!

I was trying to follow Douglas' instructions to get low and push off with my left leg. It didn't go so well.

As good as this picture looks, I lasted .5 seconds before the bike and I were headed to the ground.

Another luxurious amenity at the Kiridara was its spa. After returning each day from the sweltering 114 degree heat, we treated ourselves on the last day to a three hour treatment, including a 45-minute full body salt scrub, 60-minute massage, and 75-minute facial. The spa services were divine, and the inexpensive total price of $161 for the two of us made the experience that much more enjoyable. Asia surely has us spoiled!

They allowed us to first sample each oil and choose which we wanted for our massage.

Our private room with tub, shower room and bathroom. Such a treat.

Refreshments after our treatment.

If we ever find ourselves in Luang Prabang again, we will certainly choose the Kiridara Hotel as our home away from home.