I spent the past month country hopping, and it turns out the highlight of my trip was spending a few days in Laos with On the Mekong Resort. I'm not sure I can easily explain how relaxing it is to watch the sun set behind mountains overlooking the river, but seriously, wow.
All the rooms were built from authentic Lao homes, moved and rebuilt here for preservation. This place feels like a traditional Lao village (until you see the amenities inside the rooms). The "village" even has a temple.
The staff are fantastic. Many helpful suggestions, arranging trips to local areas. Just let them know what you enjoy and they will make it happen. Want to visit the waterfall in the National Park 45 minutes away? Hop right in. Want to take a boat tour of the river? Step right up. Feel like shopping at the night market? Right this way. I spoke with the owner today, and he is looking into the possibility of scuba diving the river. No one currently does it, but because I wondered about it, he is finding out if it can be done on my next trip.
I'm certain I will come back to Luang Prabang, and it's an easy choice where I will stay.