Two weeks ago in Charleston, South Carolina, I was mesmerized by the beautifully kept historical city centre. I called it Niagara-on-the-Lake on steroids. Now in Luang Prabang, I feel like I'm in Niagara-on-the-Lake Laotian style. This tiny town has kept it's unique heritage intact and is listed by UNESCO on it's world heritage list. According to their website, it "is an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions." I couldn't have said it better myself. A photographer's dream location.
Last night we ate dinner at Tamnak Lao a restaurant, cooking school and book exchange, that touted itself as the best food in town. I might disagree. It's the best food in Asia!!! Robin was transported back to Bangkok 30 years ago with memories of her maid's cucumber soup. I have never tasted spring rolls to die for like these. The chicken curry was a blend of delicate flavours. We left happy and headed for the night market, where you can walk for blocks through endless displays of colourful scarves, handbags, quilts and everything else Lao. We'll be back....(not to worry Mike, there's nothing too expensive or tacky).
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