The city, which was previously known as Muang Sua, is perhaps most famous for its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a title it has held since 1995 and one which it has worked to maintain by encouraging tourism and building quality hotels to attract package holiday makers. An international airport that sees connections with Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam also helps to bring visitors into the area, particularly those spending time travelling around Southeast Asia. Luang Prabang is a scenic little city bearing evidence of French colonialism in much of its architecture while also being home to a number of traditional Buddhist structures; all this set against the backdrop of stunning green countryside and the soothing sights of the Mekong River. Friendly locals and some fine Lao cuisine help to complete the picture in making Luang Prabang an attractive visitor destination. Local places of interest include various wats (temples) such as Wat Aham, Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham and Wat Manorom as well as the Royal Palace Museum and the Kuang Si waterfall. Visitors however, tend not to head to Luang Prabang in search of attractions but rather for the city’s unique charm, heritage, fine cuisine and stunning surrounding countryside. Luang Prabang can be reached by air from Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam and also by river from Chiang Khong in Thailand. Boat options are comprised of a speedboat trip which is fast (around 4 to 5 hours) although reputedly dangerous, or a slowboat trip which takes two days and involves an overnight stop at Pak Beng. | 
