Champasak Laos

Sometimes, when traveling, you come across a town or village that feels just right. For us, Champasak was one of those places. This sleepy little village on the banks of the Mekong, about 30 kilometers south of Pakse and 10 kilometers from the Khmer temple ruins of Wat Phu, captivated us with its serene charm.

Our journey to Champasak was an adventure in itself. We arrived in the back of a truck from Pakse, bouncing along the rural roads, taking in the sights and sounds of the countryside. Upon reaching Champasak, we were greeted by a sense of tranquility that immediately put us at ease.

We stayed at the delightful Inthira Hotel, which turned out to be a gem. Remarkably, we had the entire hotel to ourselves, making our stay feel exclusive and personal. The hotel staff were incredibly hospitable, always ready with a smile and eager to make our stay as comfortable as possible. They cooked us amazing food every day, filling the air with the delicious aroma of Laotian cuisine. The only minor downside was the cold showers, but even that became part of the charm of our stay.

Wandering around the town was like stepping back in time. Goats and chickens freely roamed the main street, adding to the rustic atmosphere. The locals greeted us warmly as we passed by, their friendliness making us feel welcome and at home. We spent our days exploring the quiet streets, soaking in the slow pace of life and appreciating the simple beauty of our surroundings.

Champasak is known to be quite busy during the high season, with travelers flocking to visit Wat Phu. However, when we were there, we were the only visitors in town. This rare solitude made our experience even more special. The peacefulness of the village allowed us to truly unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The only slight inconvenience was the limited number of open restaurants. This was more than compensated by the culinary delights prepared by the Inthira Hotel staff. Every meal was a testament to their skill and dedication, and we eagerly looked forward to each dining experience.

For an entire week, we embraced the art of doing very little. Our days were filled with leisurely strolls, delicious food, and the simple pleasure of being in such a charming and tranquil place. The beauty of Champasak lies in its unpretentious and authentic vibe, a place where time seems to stand still and the worries of the world fade away.

Leaving Champasak was bittersweet. We knew we had discovered a hidden gem, a place that had touched our hearts in a way few places do. As we climbed back into the truck for our return journey to Pakse, we promised ourselves that we would return to this little slice of paradise on the Mekong. Champasak had become a special place for us, a town that felt just right.