From the check in to our departure, the service, grounds, room and food were among the best we’ve ever had in our travels all around the world. The room had a private pool, very comfortable 4 poster bed, lots of space and storage, a separate sitting room and every amenity you’d want. The staff could not have been more friendly and accommodating without being fussy or subservient. Fantastic food for breakfast, lunch and dinner- all of which we had on different days in Luang Prabang. The grounds just ooze beauty and calm. And… best of all, it’s in a quiet area but just a short walk from the main streets and markets. We love the Laotian people and the magic of Luang Prabang.

Amantaka is one of those rare hotels that actually looks far better in person than it does in photos - a beautiful little French colonial style retreat in the perfect location in Luang Prabang. It is really immaculate, and looks especially impressive in the evenings, when the hotel fills the peaceful garden with lanterns. Everything about the hotel is top notch: beautiful rooms, excellent food, and extremely friendly and attentive staff. I was upgraded to a Khan suite (number 8), and I really couldn't ask for anything more: extremely spacious, and beautifully appointed. My complaints are fairly minor: above all, it would be nice if the pool was heated a few degrees warmer (and the private pools as well), and I felt the pricing for some of the activities was too high (although the room rate I think was justified given how great the hotel is). It was a bit unnecessary to charge a service fee for doing something as straightforward as booking me a train ticket - I would really expect that for free as part of normal concierge service provided by a top tier hotel. But these are small points relative to an overall fantastic experience. I'll absolutely be back. I particularly recommend doing the trip to the Kuang Si Falls and visiting the nearby elephant sanctuary, which was the highlight of my stay.

This might be my favorite hotel experience to date. Amantaka created a genuinely special space, making us feel like truly valued guests. The property is located in the heart of the city so it’s easy to see the sights and catch dinner reservations. The hotel has a complimentary tuk tuk, which makes things even easier. Our suite came with all kinds of perks, including 2 free meals and a complimentary airport transfer (I hate when super expensive hotels charge you for pickup— it seems petty, lol). Amantaka also had the coolest amenity that we’ve ever seen: FREE LAUNDRY! It’s so pragmatic and thoughtful, especially since we’d been traveling for weeks before we arrived to Laos. We took a sunset cruise on the Amantaka boat, which we highly recommend. It comes with snacks and we ordered some wine from the hotel. Amantaka staffed the whole thing with professionalism. Very fun and very beautiful. On my husband’s birthday, we ended up going out for dinner instead of staying at the hotel. The Amantaka kitchen actually stayed open late to sing him happy birthday and bring him a dessert upon our return. It was so sweet and considerate. We would never ask anyone to do such a thing, but the fact they went above and beyond was extremely touching. This is a true 5 star experience. We can’t thank them enough for showing us the beauty of Luang Prabang.

We had some great days at Amantaka. The peace and serenity of the hotel combined with lots to do in Luang Prabang was great. The staff were very helpful and seeking to exceed expectations. The New Years program was excellent- both the dinner and the days before and after.

It doesn’t get better than Amantaka. Set amongst a series of colonial era buildings surrounding a massive garden, the hotel is perfection. Our suite was impeccable, full of easy style, spotless, and supremely comfortable. The kind of room you take pictures of thinking you should build one back home. The spa - based around a bathhouse with hot and cold soaking tubs, steam room and sauna, was perfection after a long day of exploring. And make sure to explore - not just the UNESCO town but further afield - along the Mekong and spend the day with elephants to name two. The hotel organized activities for each day, and each was flawless and without stress. “No rush,” I heard again and again. The food is also excellent, with tables set around the pool each night and the entire garden lit with candles. Magical. Now, for that staff. From the excellent GM new from Bhutan, on down, they are charming and kind and efficient. It was my birthday over our stay, and I must’ve been wished so by 100 staff. Yes, it is expensive. But if you can afford it, DO. It is one of those rare jewels.