Satri House

With its plunge pool, herbal steam room and huge range of treatments, the spa complex is the ideal place to work away your cares. Once you've been pampered to the max, head to the restaurant to sample some of the local delicacies. And for all other times of day, the 15 metre pool is the perfect place to enjoy a few lazy laps or a snooze in the shade of one of the handily-provided panama hats.

There are 31 rooms at Satri House but it never feels busy or full, thanks to lots of carefully-placed nooks to relax in. The rooms are wonderfully luxurious with their pastel-hued walls, four-poster beds and billowing white curtains, and all have a selection of trademark Satri antiques. Bathrooms all have walk-in showers (some of the suites have tubs too), butter soft robes and delightful toiletries. For something extra special, book into a Satri House suite; located in the original UNESCO-listed building, they are a real treat.

With the Mekong River right on your doorstep, it would be almost criminal not to explore it with a trip on the Satri Boat - after all, who doesn't love a sunset cruise? During the day, use Satri House's location to your advantage and explore everything Luang Prabang has to offer, from the night markets and exquisite local restaurants, to the pretty architecture and the famous morning almsgiving ceremony. From here, the city is your oyster.