For travelers who are searching for a destination that is off the beaten path, Laos is the idea vacation. Laos is a small, misty and mountainous landlocked country included in the territory that previously made up French Indochina. The country itself has a history that stretches back for a good 10,000 years.

Today Laos is known as a particularly peaceful and serene location, which makes it an ideal spot for a retreat from other busier, more hustle-and-bustle areas of Southeast Asia.

The Deluxe Kosher tours trip scheduled for January 2011 has planned a trip to Laos in between visiting the countries of Vietnam and Cambodia. I know this will make the perfect replenishing and revitalizing stop on our tour.

Tourism is the fastest growing industry in the country of Laos, which was just opened up to travelers in 1989. Tourism is, however, an industry that is controlled by a ministry-level government agency called the Lao National Tourism Administration. This administration was created to protect what is considered to be an important way of life in Laos: natural beauty spoiled by technology, laid back ambiance, and peaceful and beautiful Buddhist temples.

Buddhism is the predominant religion in Laos, and one that affects all aspects of life and tradition for the country’s small population. When visiting the tiny town of Luang Prabang, which is situated in northern Laos, you’ll be gently awakened each morning by the sound of temple bells and gongs.

Luang Prabang is considered by many travelers and writers to be the heart of Laotian culture, and is arguably Southeast Asia’s most gorgeous spot. The town’s entire historical center is dedicated to tourism, with everything from old French architecture to former royal palaces and over 30 different Buddhist temples.

This former Royal capital still remains the main center for Buddhist learning in Laos. There are also ample opportunities for swimming and climbing among the town’s cascading waterfalls and within the waters of the Mekong River.

Since Luang Prabang is a small town, it is possible to tour it on foot and to immerse yourself in the Lao people and significant monk community here. One of the most impressive attractions for visiting travelers is Wat Xieng Thong, a true masterpiece of Buddhist architecture. Built in the 1560 by King Setthathirat, it continues to impress visitors today with its golden facade and beautiful mural paintings.

Originally the temple was used for the highest royal ceremonies and to temporarily house the bodies of deceased kings. The sim (or main building) is thought to represent classic Luang Prabang architecture with its sweeping roofs. An adjoining building houses a reclining Buddha created in classic Lao style.

One of the most well-known sights in Luang Prabang is the processions of Buddhist monks, clad in bright saffron robes, who take part in a walk through town each morning to collect food donations from locals. Each temple takes a different route through town for the monks to receive alms. Tourists have the opportunity to watch or take part in this procession; it is particularly heart warming and telling of the Laotian culture.

Don’t be afraid about talking — many of the monks are eager to try out their English and will be happy to engage you in conversation. This may even offer you the opportunity to learn something new about the warm, peaceful and inviting culture of Laos.

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