Avani+ Luang Prabang, Laos
French colonial heritage, tropical courtyards, and contemporary calm in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage city.
Why DNA Hotels Loves It
● A beautifully restored colonial landmark that combines historic architecture with understated contemporary design.
● One of Luang Prabang’s most tranquil hotels, centred around a lush courtyard shaded by an ancient banyan tree.
● An ideal location that places temples, the Royal Palace, the Mekong River, and the famous Night Market within easy walking distance.
Colonial Heritage Reimagined
Occupying a former French colonial officers’ residence dating from 1914, Avani+ Luang Prabang brings new life to one of the city’s historic buildings. Originally constructed for the French military administration and later operating as the Phousi Hotel, the property was sensitively transformed by architect Pascal Trahan into an elegant boutique retreat that respects Luang Prabang’s distinctive architectural heritage. Its low-rise buildings, wraparound verandas, shuttered façades, and generous proportions blend seamlessly into the surrounding UNESCO-protected streetscape.
A Courtyard Designed for Slow Living
At the heart of the hotel lies a peaceful tropical courtyard where a 25-metre swimming pool stretches beneath the shade of an enormous banyan tree. Frangipani, jasmine, palms, and manicured gardens soften the clean architectural lines, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and spacious. Rather than overwhelming guests with luxury, the design encourages a slower rhythm, inviting long afternoons by the pool and quiet evenings beneath the trees.
Contemporary Comfort with Laotian Character
The guestrooms combine colonial simplicity with modern comfort. Natural timber, locally crafted furnishings, handwoven textiles, waxed batik fabrics, and patterned cement tiles introduce subtle references to Laotian craftsmanship without feeling overly decorative. Crisp white walls, warm neutral colours, and abundant natural light create interiors that are calm, comfortable, and timeless. The result is refined rather than extravagant, allowing the architecture and local materials to speak for themselves.
The Best of Luang Prabang on Your Doorstep
Few hotels enjoy such a privileged location. Situated opposite the famous Night Market and only a short stroll from the Royal Palace, the Mekong River, and the city’s countless Buddhist temples, Avani+ offers immediate access to Luang Prabang’s cultural heart while maintaining an atmosphere of remarkable tranquillity behind its walls. After a day exploring temples or cruising the Mekong, returning to the quiet courtyard feels like stepping into another world.
Relaxed Dining
The hotel’s restaurant reflects the same understated philosophy found throughout the property, combining international favourites with traditional Laotian cuisine prepared using fresh local ingredients. Breakfast unfolds slowly beneath the trees, while evenings often end around the fire pit with cocktails as the tropical garden settles into silence.
Why it Works
Avani+ Luang Prabang demonstrates that luxury doesn’t need excess to make an impression. By combining French colonial heritage, thoughtful contemporary design, local craftsmanship, and one of the city’s finest courtyard settings, it creates an atmosphere of effortless calm in the heart of Luang Prabang. Elegant, unpretentious, and deeply connected to its surroundings, it’s one of the city’s most rewarding places to stay.
