Why choose Vivu Journeys in Laos?
Our connection with this enchanting land is deep-rooted and authentic, much like the experiences we craft for discerning travellers.
My inaugural journey to Laos was in 1996, not long after the inception of Buffalo Tours. The voyage from the border to Xieng Khoang was a day’s endeavour, with a road trip to Luang Prabang taking three days, and an additional two to reach Vientiane. The journey was arduous, with bumpy and precarious roads. Yet, amidst this ruggedness, Luang Prabang emerged as one of the most captivating towns I have ever encountered. Encircled by verdant forests and cradled between the mighty Mekong and the serene Nam Khan River, this town is a tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty—an open-air living museum where the past and present coexist seamlessly.
My earliest memories of the town’s alms-giving rituals at dawn, accompanied by the scent of fresh coffee and croissants from the local JOMA Café, remain vivid. Luang Prabang is a place I often tell friends could be my second home in Asia.
(Vivu Journeys in Laos)
Since 2009, our company has called Luang Prabang our Laotian home, with the head office of our travel business nestled in the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite the ebb and flow of time, including the challenging Covid years, my connection to Laos remained unbroken, returning several times each year. In 2011, we proudly opened the doors of Victoria Xiengthong Palace, revitalising a historic edifice that whispers tales of Lao’s last royal family. At the hotel, our commitment extends beyond our walls, as we introduce guests to the soul of Laos, offering bespoke experiences from nightly cinema under the stars to exclusive Victoria Boat cruises on the Mekong and Nam Kha.
The country’s recent infrastructural leap, with new roads and a high-speed train connecting key destinations, has made travel within Laos more accessible. Yet, the true essence of Laos—its heartbeat—resides in Luang Prabang. If you have a few days to spare, immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the surrounding villages, rivers, and waterfalls, and let the spirit of Laos envelop you.
(Vivu Journeys in Laos)
Today, our residence and office in our Victoria Xiengthong Palace, we stand as more than just a tour company: we’re proud guardians of heritage, respected within the community, and dedicated to the prosperity of Laos. For those seeking a profoundly genuine Laotian experience, Vivu Journeys is your consummate partner.
