(photo courtesy of Allie Caulfiend)

Perhaps one of my favorite, somewhat off the beaten track cities visited would be the colorful Luang Prabang, in Laos. 

It's a city of about 100,000 people. (99,999 of whom seem to be quite friendly!) The city has a unique recognition in that the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

It's located in North Central Laos, along the Mekong River. Tourists are attracted to it for both its natural, and historic sites. Popular activities include the night market, or a day trip out to explore the Pak Ou Caves or the Kuang Si Falls. Much of the life lived in the city happens along the Mekong. Be sure that you don't stray too far from the river.  

Many visitors also take in the historical sites,such as the Wat Xieng Thong temple, or the Haw Kham Royal Palace Museum.  The Old Town is also a wonderful area to explore. 

Laos itself is a treasure to visit. I was last there in 2005, and look forward to returning as soon as possible. Luang Prabang is a must visit city in the country, centrally located a few hunder kilometres north of the capi.jpgtal, Vientiane.