Spa and massage: Luang Prabang offers a variety of venues where it’s possible to get a traditional nu-ad Lao; a style of massage with origins in India’s ayurvedic health system and similar to the style found in neighbouring Thailand. Choose your establishment carefully if you are fussy about hygiene as many places won’t change the mat or bedding between customers.

The Villa Santi Hotel & Resort, located a little out of the city, has its own spa where you can get a massage or take a relaxing herbal sauna and be assured of western-standards of cleanliness.