At the Confluence of Colonial Era Charm and French Joie De Vivre in Laos

Ringed by mountains and idyllically set 700 metres above sea level, the historic royal capital of Luang Prabang with its glistening temples and heritage French provincial architecture is accentuated by ancient green trees with scarlet flowers, saffron-clad monks, and pearly-white perfumed frangipanis whose fragrance mingles with that of fresh-brewed coffee and exotic spices.

Here, at the confluence of the Nam Khan and Mekong Rivers, three 100-year-old UNESCO world heritage houses, each a stunning blend of vintage French architecture and classic Lao design, have been superbly restored and transformed into 3 Nagas Luang Prabang, MGallery by Sofitel, which was rebranded earlier this year as the first MGallery by Sofitel in Laos.

“With tourist arrivals here forecast to reach 700,000 by 2018, Luang Prabang is a rising star in Mekong region,” says Patrick Basset, Chief Operating Officer of AccorHotels, Upper Southeast and Northeast Asia. “Visitors to the town are thirsty for cultural, historic and architectural experiences. They are engaged explorers who are fueled by passion, curiosity and an interest in the world around them.” He added.

“MGallery by Sofitel is an intimate collection of hotels for adventurous clued-in travellers,” says Pablo Barruti, the hotel's General Manager. “The brand represents charming, authentic hotels with meaningful stories, and 3 Nagas Luang Prabang, MGallery by Sofitel is the quintessential expression of the brand, offering the perfect accommodation for those looking for a memorable experience in this heritage city.”

Two of these three world heritage houses with their exotic hardwood floors, traditional cob walls and clay roof tiles, have been devoted to guest accommodation. The 15 spacious rooms range from 30 to 56 square metres offer the 3 Nagas Garden view which overlooks a quaint town. Colonial furnishings amidst traditional Lao design adds warmth to the 12 Deluxe Rooms and the three well-appointed Executive Suites feature an attached terrace balcony.

Guests may choose one of the seven rooms at Lamache House, which was built in 1898 and painstakingly restored using traditional techniques and local wood called may pow that was historically used for constructing boats, or one of the eight rooms at Khamboua House, built in 1903, with exotic hardwood floorings.

The exterior 3 Nagas Garden faces the Nam Khan River which is a scenic central pond under UNESCO protection. This is an idyllic spot to dine under the stars over a candlelight dinner or simply enjoy and relax with a book at the hotel library.

For breakfast, lunch and dinner, 3 Nagas Restaurant entices with its traditional Lao cuisine prepared with a French twist. It is a culinary experience that begins with the aromas of lemongrass and pepper wood drifting on the balmy breeze. In a town that is nationally renowned for serving the most delicious dishes, guests at 3 Nagas can relish the menu's wide array of traditional favourites, including royal specialties such as buffalo.

To the delight of many guests, the hotel also houses the former Royal Family's official ice cream parlour, which has been recreated as a retro café where those with a sweet tooth are introduced to a variety of flavours including the 3 Nagas favourite: sweet, nutty-flavoured pandan mixed with the refreshing taste of coconut. For a memorable stay experience, guests of 3 Nagas have privileged access to the nearby Sofitel Luang Prabang, including Governor's Grill, Ka-Toke Cooking School, Le SPA, Fitness Centre, swimming pool and meeting rooms.

Unforgettable excursions at 3 Nagas begin the moment guests touch down at Luang Prabang International Airport 15 minutes away, from where they are escorted to a vintage car for their short journey ride to the hotel through fields of green, ornate temples and historic landmarks.

Whether on foot with the hotel's walking map in hand, by bicycle, tuk-tuk, or in the hotel's chauffeured cream-coloured 1956 Mercedes-Benz or 1952 Citroen, Luang Prabang's graceful colonial buildings, riverside cafés and magnificent museums offer the traveller a rich and rewarding experience. The Leisure Concierge will tailor activities and tours to individual guest preferences, and point the way to hidden art galleries and antique shops where authentic souvenirs may be collected.

Guests are invited to experience the languid pace of 19th century colonial Luang Prabang with all of its charm and graciousness. The “Classic Time-Travel” package offer starts at USD140++ per room per night or USD160++ with daily breakfast for two.

3 Nagas, MGallery by Sofitel is located on Sakkaline Road in Luang Prabang. For reservations or general information, please visit www.3-nagas.com, email h9641@sofitel.com, or call +85671260777.