9 Tips For Authentic Travel Experiences

BY  Sibashree Nov 3, 2025

I visited Luang Prabang in 2022, and the capital of the ancient Laotian kingdom was slowly recovering from the rampage of COVID-19. The misty mornings were special, with hundreds of monks walking through the narrow streets with their alms bowls.  People gather and offer fruits and rice to the monks. The monks silently accept the offerings, then quietly return to the temples.  Even today, with skyrocketing tourism numbers, Luang Prabang remains one of the most unspoiled places on earth. Buddhism and a strong belief in the power of nature have helped the city to maintain its authentic charm.  Also, the 32 Buddhist temples present in Luang Prabang today are a telltale of the history, myths, and spiritual beliefs associated with the city’s origin. In this Luang Prabang temple guide, I will talk about the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang Laos. Of course, the Golden City Temple or Wat Xieng Thong is the most famous among them. It was built in 1560.  What Are The Top Buddhist Temples To Visit In Luang Prabang Laos?  As the mornings in Luang Prabang are special with the quietude and humility of the alms giving ceremony, the evenings are magical with the evening chants of the monks in the temples.  The sound of the chants echoes through the valley with the Mekong River passing by dreamily and the outlines of the mountains fading into the darkness.  I used to get lost in my thoughts that these temples were the sites of the coronation of many Laotian kings. Also, despite their intricate designs, they look like an extension of the ethereal natural landscape here.  Nevertheless, these are the top Buddhist temples to visit in Luang Prabang, Laos.  1. Wat Xieng Thong Also known as the “Monastery of the Golden City,” Wat Xieng Thong evokes awe. Built in 1560, it is home to the famous reclining Buddha Sanctuary or the Red Chapel.  It also stands out with its architectural excellence, including the multi-tiered roofline and beautiful mosaic work.  2. Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marek Kotlarski (@mkotlarski) Wat Mai, or the New Temple, is the largest in Luang Prabang. It looks exquisite with the gilded bas-relief panels on the façade.  Also, it is historically important as it served as the residence of the highest Lao Buddhist dignitary till 1975.  3. Wat Visounnarath (Wat Visoun) Wat Visoun has a distinctive, spherical, and unique stupa called "That Mak Mo” or the “Watermelon Stupa.” It has a rounded shape.  Also, Wat Visounnarath was founded in 1512. So, today, it is the oldest operating temple in Luang Prabang.  4. Wat Aham View this post on Instagram A post shared by Austin Bush (@bushaustin) Wat Aham is also known as the Monastery of the Open Hearted. It is located next to Wat Visoun.  Wat Aham is famous for its two ancient banyan trees on its grounds. Locals believe that these trees are home to the guardian spirits of the city.  5. Wat That Luang Locals call Wat That Luang the Monastery of the Royal Stupa. The ashes of King Sisavang Vong, who died in 1959, are present in the golden stupa in the temple grounds. Even before that, it was used to cremate many members of the royal family.  6. Wat Chom Si Located on the top of Mount Phousi, Wat Chom Si was the best temple I visited in Luang Prabang. The spiritual energy there was so high.  I don’t know whether it’s the joy of reaching the temple after a trek or the magical views of the Mekong River from the top! Everything looks and feels so magical here! 7. Wat Sop Sickharam The structure of the Wat Sop Sickharam temple, what we see today, is the renovated form of the 19th century. However, the origin of the temple goes back to the 16th century.  Its architecture is a wonderful fusion of the French Colonial Style and traditional Lao architecture.  8. Wat Pa Phai The congregational hall or the traditional Lao-style sim is the highlight of Wat Pa Phai. Furthermore, its facade is unique with exterior columns and a verandah.  It also has another name, “The Monastery of the Bamboo Forest.”  9. Wat Sene Souk Haram Wat Sene Souk Haram looks dazzling with its golden and red ornamentation. It is known as the Temple of 100,000 treasures, as it was built with 100,000 stones collected from the Mekong River in 1718.  10. Wat Nong Sikhounmuang Wat Nong Sikhounmuang has recently gone through a major renovation. It is home to one of the largest and richest pagodas in Luang Prabang.  Furthermore, you can spot it from a distance due to its vibrantly colored roof in the traditional Thai style.  11. Wat Khili View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nat & Ricky Dunn (@lifedunndifferently) The large gold Wheel of Life on the front gable of Wat Khili will be the first thing to catch your notice. Furthermore, it has low roofs and a red facade with golden columns.  It shows influence from the Xieng Khouang province and was built in 1773.  12. Wat Phon Phao Wat Phon Phao has a unique octagonal structure, and with the sunlight falling over it, it uses its golden glow to illuminate the city.  The paintings in the interior of this temple are beautiful, and they depict the Buddhist philosophy of life and death.  13. Wat Manorom Wat Manorom is home to a 6-meter-high bronze Buddha statue, which dates back to the 14th century. Apart from being a temple, it is also an important community center for the locals.  In fact, all the temples in Luang Prabang help nurture community bonding. Also, historically, it used to be the home of the largest number of monks.  14. Wat Ho Pha Bang (inside Royal Palace) The Wat Ho Pha Bang, or the Temple of the Pha Bang, houses the Phra Bang Buddha image, the palladium of Laos.  This temple is located inside the Royal Palace grounds.  15. Wat Mahathat Wat Mahathat was founded in 1548. It houses the ashes of the revered Prince Phetsarath, who declared the independence of Laos in 1945.  It also has a highly ornamented facade.  16. Wat Xieng Mouane View this post on Instagram A post shared by nrq (@nrqpapa) Wat Xieng Mouane is important for its role in promoting traditional art and culture. Furthermore, I loved the gilding and traditional woodwork in the temple.  17. Wat That Phoun Wat That Phoun is one of the most peaceful temples I have visited in Luang Prabang. Also, once you enter the temple, it’s like an art gallery with a wonderful display of paintings.  The entrance gates are adorned with serpent deities or Nagas, and the temple also functions as a cremation location.  18. Wat Long Khoun “Wat Long Khoun is where our kings once meditated. It’s quiet, sacred, and often overlooked.” - Somsack, my local guide.  This former royal meditation retreat is a wonderful example of Lao architecture in the 18th century, and it has the most illustrious Jataka murals, depicting the last lives of Lord Buddha.  19. Wat Phra Bat Tai Wat Phra Bat Tai in Luang Prabang is very similar to Prabhas Tirtha in India. Prabhas Tirtha has the footprints of Lord Krishna, and War Phra Bat Tai has a huge footprint of the Buddha.  Furthermore, its architectural style shows a wonderful fusion of Thai, Lao, and Vietnamese architectural styles.  It is also where I found it the easiest to interact with the monks and share our philosophies about life.  20. Wat Phon Heuang The traditional stenciling on the temple's ceiling instantly evoked a sense of awe. Furthermore, I saw how it is an important social area or hub for the local community. It is so because it is one of the prime locations for participating in the alms-giving ceremony.  In addition, when I visited, it had not been extensively renovated. So, it was like connecting to the past for me.  Wat Xieng Mouane: The Lesser-Known Temple Of Luang Prabang  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ruprecht Lin (@boblinize) Wat Xieng Maen is a hidden gem if I talk about the top temples to visit in Luang Prabang. It was founded in 1592.  I took a ferry across the Mekong River to reach this temple. It is a quiet escape, and it is significant as it was home to the famous Phra Bang Buddha image for a short period.  Accessibility Ratings Of The Best Temples In Luang Prabang  Check out the table below to know about the most accessible Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang.  TempleWheelchair AccessStairsQuiet ZonesWat Xieng Thong✅Minimal✅Wat Mai✅Few steps✅Wat Visoun✅Ramp available✅Wat Aham✅Flat terrain✅ Photography Tips Golden Hour: 6:00–7:00 AM and 5:00–6:30 PM. Best Angles: Capture rooflines from low angles; use temple doorways for framing. Respectful Shots: Avoid interrupting rituals or photographing monks without consent. Gear: Use a wide-angle lens for interiors and a tripod for low-light shots. Temple Etiquette & Dress Code In Luang Prabang Dress Modestly: Shoulders and knees covered. Avoid tight or revealing clothing. Remove Shoes: Always take off footwear before entering the temple interiors. Avoid Pointing Feet: Never point your feet toward Buddha statues or monks. Photography: Ask permission before photographing monks or rituals. Alms Giving: Participate respectfully in morning alms (Tak Bat) by kneeling and remaining silent. What Is The Best Time To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang? Luang Prabang’s temples are open year-round, but timing enhances the experience: MonthHighlightsNovember–FebruaryCool, dry weather is ideal for walking tours.Mar–MayHot but less crowded and good for early morning visits.June–OctoberRainy season, and it stands out with its lush greenery and fewer tourists. Best Time of Day To Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang  Sunrise: Wat Chom Si after a climb to Mount Phousi Midday: Wat Mai, with its shaded interiors, is the perfect late morning and afternoon refuge.  Sunset: Wat Xieng Thong is ideal for golden hour photography.  Walking Routes & Maps: Exploring The Best Temples Of Luang Prabang  Visiting all the temples in Luang Prabang is not possible in a single visit to the city. Instead, for a short trip to the city, you can follow these temple tour routes.  1. Temple Trail Route (2–3 Hours) Start at Wat Xieng Thong.  Walk to Wat Sop Sickharam.  Continue to Wat Sene.  Visit Wat Mai.  End at Wat Visoun. 2. Sunset Spiritual Loop (1 Hour) Climb Mount Phousi to Wat Chom Si. Descend to Wat Aham. Finish at Wat That Luang. Luang Prabang Temple Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the Luang Prabang temple guide.  1. How Many Temples Are In Luang Prabang? Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has 32 operational Buddhist temples. These temples with their beautiful murals, paintings, and sculptures depicting the life and lessons of Lord Buddha, are prominent social, religious, and community centers. Furthermore, they show a wonderful fusion of Lao, Thai, and Khmer architectural styles in their architecture.  2. Can I Visit The Temples In Luang Prabang During Festivals? Yes, you can visit the temples in Luang Prabang during major festivals such as Boun Pi Mai, the Lao New Year, and Boun Khao Phansa, or the start of the Buddhist Lent. However, you have to be patient as there will be crowds, and you have to follow the etiquette. 3. Are Women Allowed To Give Alms? I found out that people taking part in the alms-giving ceremony were mostly women. However, my guide told me to follow some strict rules. You cannot touch the robes of the monks or make any physical contact with them. Also, you must kneel down before them while offering the alms. 

BY  sagnika Mar 11, 2025

A great city to visit, New Orleans is vibrant, sweeping you off your feet with its diverse beauty! The Mardi Gras events, colorful jewelry, delicious cuisine, world-class musicians, amazing architecture, and rich history of the place bring together an amazing experience.   But with that beautiful culture, there is also a hint of fear, especially with the crimes and history of violence the place carries. You need to pay attention to the people around you, and the surroundings, manage your expenses, check your alcohol consumption, and walk across high-trafficked areas.   Additionally, you will be charmed by the place but do not forget to be aware of your environment. You can also book accommodation at New Orleans family hotels! Additionally, you can also go on free walking tours, and food tours, and adhere to the safety tips shared with you.   Is New Orleans Safe as a Solo Traveller: Shared Experience!   The city is a mix of art, tradition, culture, and a lot of Gangsta! Yes, New Orleans experiences a lot of negative press especially when violence in the city is over-advertised. While the strong sense of community is not highlighted as much.   People look after each other in New Orleans, especially with the cultural exchange and festivities. If you live in the city, of course, you will love it, after all, it is your place. However, if you are a tourist, you will fall in love. One of the best exotic places to travel, you must visit New Orleans once in your lifetime!   Yes, the place has its issues, every place in the world does. There might be a little concern when it comes to violence along with the drug crisis. It is, therefore, important to understand why you need to be cautious when roaming alone in the city.    Let's explore the places you must visit, eat food at, or stay at which are safe for a solo traveler. Additionally, I will also offer you tips on how you can stay safe in New Orleans. Even though most of the areas where tourists stay, or visit is quite safe.   Tips to Stay Safe in New Orleans   The areas such as the Garden District, the French Quarter, the Warehouse District, and the Central Business District where the tourists frequent a lot are quite safe. Yet, it is important to have basic common-sense practices that you must engage in to be safe.   If you see any family in New Orleans with kids, know that there are enough fun things to do with them too. It is not just perfect for young or solo travelers. Furthermore, there are several family activities in New Orleans such as visiting the museums, national parks, and others.   Book Accommodations at a Busy Place   Try to book your well-lit accommodation, especially if you like wandering around at night. If you are someone who likes to experience the nightlife of a place, it is better if you book your rooms in an area with heavy traffic.   Try to book rideshare with Lyft or Uber when you are returning late at night. An extra layer of security is when you have the option to request a female, or a male driver based on your preference. It is not always safe to get on public transport, especially late at night when you might not get any help if a crisis arose.   Be Careful of What You Drink and Where   New Orleans is a party, creating a vibrant and fun vacation for you. Alcohol is an important part of this vacation and of course, you can drink when you are out enjoying yourself. Yes, you can visit the closest beach to New Orleans to experience the relaxed but vibrant vibe of the place.   However, I would suggest trying to control the amount. Please do not leave your drink unattended so, even when going to the bathroom, take it with you. Cover your drink when you are in a crowded bar, and this advice is for both men and women.   Petty Crime   When you go out in New Orleans, try to keep your expensive watches, jewelry bags, or cameras in the safety of your hotel room. This way, you will not attract any unwanted attention from people by ill means.   In a crowded street, you need to keep your wallet, money, and other essentials in your front pockets. Be aware and careful of your surroundings, also try to wear your bags across your shoulder so it is not that easy to snatch them while passing.    Beware of the Scammers   If you look like a tourist, you are done! There are scammers everywhere and if you look like a tourist, you are an easy target. If you are visiting the city during carnival time or festivities, a lot of scammers can try to sell things as souvenirs at a high price.   Additionally, try not to be too polite because scammers take advantage of your nature. They identify you based on your behavior and stalk you to learn your ways so that they can take advantage of your weaknesses.   Try not to engage with anyone, whether it is about money, time, conversation, or smile especially if they are strangers. Keep walking if anyone is repeatedly trying to engage you and also say no to drinks or food coming from strangers.    Things You Can Do in New Orleans Alone   I travel alone frequently, and if you are planning to travel to New Orleans alone, let me share with you some of the top places to visit. A colorful city, New Orleans has a rich history where you can view beautiful architecture along with delicious cuisine.   How can you forget the lively music scene that is available on most streets of New Orleans? Try to follow the common practices when out in the street so that you don’t seem out of place for fraudsters. Let's explore the top things you have to do to be safe and still enjoy your vacation alone!   Top Places to Visit   These are some of the places you must visit if you are traveling to New Orleans. Especially as a solo traveler, if you are wondering if is New Orleans safe, you should visit these places to experience the beauty of it all.   Take a walk across the French Quarter: One of the most popular places in New Orleans, the vibrant history of the place along with the buildings and their architecture will take your breath away. If you are traveling alone, it is better if you take a guided walking tour or else you might miss things!   Visit the Whitney Plantation Tour: If you want to learn more about the history of Louisiana’s slavery, you should visit the Whitney Plantation. You will gain a profound understanding when you see all the preserved buildings along with powerful exhibits. These exhibits tell the stories of enslaved people who used to live there.  https://www.instagram.com/p/C0kJjreMV8y/?ref=badge Go to a Jazz National Historical Park: If you are a music lover, you will fall in love with this park because it offers you live music. Additionally, some exhibitions and performances will educate you about the rich jazz heritage of New Orleans.   Book a Swamp Tour: Are you a wildlife enthusiast? If so, you gotta go experience the swamp tour where you can sport wild boars and alligators in their natural habitat. Furthermore, you also get to learn more about how these places are maintained.   Top Restaurants and Bars   Several restaurants, pubs, and bars offer you delicious southern cuisine along with trademark drinks. One of the coolest places you can visit if you are traveling solo, Cochon is your go-to. Offering comfortable Southern food, you can enjoy diverse flavors.   Sazerac Bar is another place that you cannot miss, especially when it is known for its historical watering hole. It is known for its chilled atmosphere along with art deco interiors.   Travel Insurance   It is quite important to keep in mind that travel insurance is an important part of staying safe and secure, whether you are traveling solo or with family. The destination does not matter as long as travel insurance is a non-negotiable aspect when you are traveling.   If you face any unforeseen incidents, it is the travel insurance that helps you in weird situations. In the US, healthcare is expensive, so if you have travel insurance, you can manage any Healthcare insurance thus, footing the bill easily.   Yes, initially, Healthcare might be expensive but once you get it, your medical emergencies, lost baggage, and travel delays can be easily dealt with.   Places to Avoid in New Orleans   If you are traveling to New Orleans alone and wondering is New Orleans safe, I have the perfect answer for you. The place is perfect for solo travelers as long as you are a little aware and careful of your surroundings.   Additionally, there is also a possibility that you might be in a crisis, so for that, we have shared tips that will ensure that you enjoy yourself to the fullest. Read the blog and let us know how these tips have helped you.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.

BY  Arnab May 12, 2023

The Acropolis of Athens is an iconic monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and a testament to human achievement in architecture, engineering, and art. What’s even better? You get Acropolis Of Athen Tickets at quite affordable prices! The Acropolis of Athens is located on a rocky hill overlooking the city of Athens. It consists of several ancient buildings, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, as well as the Propylaea. These buildings were constructed in the 5th century BC and are considered some of the most impressive examples of classical Greek architecture. If the Acropolis of Athens is the place that you want to visit, you will need to purchase Acropolis of Athens Tickets. These tickets can be purchased online or even at the entrance of the site. The ticket includes access to the Acropolis as well as several other archaeological sites in Athens, including the Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora. Visitors to the Acropolis of Athens should be prepared for a steep climb to reach the top of the hill. However, the effort is worth it for the stunning views and the opportunity to see one of the most important historical sites in the world. The site is open year-round. But it can get crowded during peak tourist season, so it's best to arrive early in the day to avoid long lines. Site Monuments at the Acropolis of Athens Here are some of the site monuments you cannot miss while you are in Athens: The Parthenon The Parthenon is the most famous of the Acropolis site monuments as well as one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. It originates from the 5th century BC as a temple in dedication to the goddess Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. The temple features a massive colonnade, a pediment with sculptures depicting scenes from Greek mythology, and a frieze that tells the story of a religious procession. The Parthenon remains an outstanding example of classical Greek architecture. Despite earthquakes damaging it and other natural disasters over the centuries, it is a testament to the skills of the ancient builders who created it. The Propylaea The Propylaea is the monumental gateway to the Acropolis and originates from the 5th century BC. It features impressive columns and a grand staircase. Its design is a fitting entrance to the sacred site of the Acropolis. The Propylaea is an excellent example of classical Greek architecture. Its imposing presence still impresses visitors to the site today. The Erechtheion The Erechtheion is a temple in dedication to both Athena and Poseidon and it originates from the 5th century BC. The temple features several distinctive elements, including the famous Caryatids, columns shaped like female figures. The Erechtheion is famous for its intricate design. It includes a variety of different levels and sections, as well as stunning decorative elements such as sculptural friezes and ornate moldings. The Temple of Athena Nike The Temple of Athena Nike stands in honor of the goddess Athena. This was a symbol of victory and reached completion in the fifth century BC. The temple is a small but elegant structure featuring beautiful friezes and commanding views over the city of Athens. Despite its relatively small size, the Temple of Athena Nike is a significant example of classical Greek architecture and an important part of the Acropolis site monuments. The Odeon of Herodes Atticus The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is a semi-circular theater that was built in the 2nd century AD. It was constructed in honor of Herodes Atticus. He was a wealthy Roman citizen who sponsored many public works projects in Athens. The Odeon was used for concerts and other performances and is still used for cultural events today. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Acropolis site monuments. The architecture is an important reminder of the cultural significance of the ancient city of Athens. The Theatre of Dionysus The Theatre of Dionysus is an ancient Greek theater originating from the 5th century BC. It was the site of the first performances of many famous Greek plays. It includes the works of Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. The theater was in dedication to the god Dionysus. He is the patron of theater as well as wine and became the birthplace of theater. The Theatre of Dionysus is an important part of the Acropolis site monuments. It is a must-see destination for anyone who likes the history of theater. The Stoa of Eumenes The Stoa of Eumenes is a long-covered walkway that originates from the 2nd century BC. It held public gatherings and as a marketplace as well as is an excellent example of ancient Greek architecture. The Stoa features a colonnade with beautiful columns. Its location on the Acropolis offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Temple of Olympian Zeus The Temple of Olympian Zeus is one of the largest temples in Greece. It has been standing tall since the 6th century BC. The temple is in dedication to the god Zeus and features a massive colonnade with 104 columns. Only 15 remain standing today. The Temple of Olympian Zeus is an impressive example of ancient Greek architecture. It is a reminder of the importance of religion in ancient Greek society. The Sanctuary of Asclepius The Sanctuary of Asclepius, a small temple, is a dedication to the god of healing as well as medicine. Its making date is in the 4th century BC. The temple features beautiful columns and a small altar and was a popular destination for pilgrims seeking healing as well as wellness. The Sanctuary of Asclepius is a reminder of the importance of health and wellness in ancient Greek society. It is an interesting addition to the other more well-known site monuments on the Acropolis. Read Also: The Best 5 Places To Visit In Sicily This Year 10 Best Places To Travel In April – Travel Guide 2022 10 Best Places To Travel In November – Travel Guide 2022