Amantaka

A calming sanctuary from the hubbub of the city outside, Amantaka is positively dripping with palatial panache. You'll be spoilt for choice when presented with the dazzling selection of Laos and western dishes in the restaurant, all created from locally-grown ingredients. Head to the pool terrace for something more relaxed during the day, or the elegant Lounge Bar in the evening for the best cocktails in town. The main swimming pool is spacious and smooth, and the spa is, well, heavenly.

Interestingly, there are only 24 suites at the Amantaka and chances are, you'd be more than happy in any one of them with their four poster beds and stately en-suites. All have some sort of private outdoor space, be it a garden or terrace, and 16 even have their own private pools for the ultimate living-like-a-celebrity dream. Decor is chic and beautifully minimal (there's no clutter in sight) and clean lines and large windows make everything light, bright and lovely.

All the usual suspects can be found at the Amantaka and there's a spa, yoga studio, gym, and a large pool to keep you entertained within the hotel grounds. But there are plenty of other activities to be enjoyed too, ranging from the adventurous to the cultural; arrange a cooking class and go back home with a Laotian dish or two under your belt, take a walk into town and explore the rich history of Luang Prabang, or enjoy an elephant ride through the forest to the Park Ou Caves. The concierge is always on hand to organise any trips and tours that take your fancy.