Luang Prabang in November
 

I will be in Luang Prabang for four days before going to Hanoi for an annual volunteer program. I NEED help on where to stay......the most convenient place to see the wonders of the town and the monks in the morning. I would appreciate any advice that you can give me. This Forum has helped me many times...and I am very grateful!

I've been to Luang Prabang twice and have found it's been easy to find a place when I get there. The town center is relatively small with lots of guesthouses and I like to have a look before I decide. Any place in the center will be close to the monks and the wonders, such as they are, so I suggest you bring a list gleaned from suggestions you may get here, online and guidebooks and just have a stroll around. Simple accommodations can be lovely and cheap so no need to pay western prices unless you're looking for something in particular.

joannay, I don't know when you've been to LP, but November is high season. There is often a shortage of places to stay in November, so I'd suggest booking ahead. You want to stay in town, not on the outskirts of town. Check some of the major booking sites like www.agoda.com and www.asiarooms.com

Yes, I understand that November is the busy time. Which is why I mentioned the simple places that aren't generally bookable online. The more upscale hotels, the "something in particular" may be booked but a stroll around can still turn up small inexpensive rooms. I'm not discouraging rickyloo from booking ahead but in my experience even during the season it's not essential to do it, depending on what the style of travel is.

I agree with joanna. If you are just looking for a basic place to stay, it is easy enough to arrange on arrival (in fact for many places, the only way!)even in high season. www.hostelworld.com has plenty of availability in Nov and the reviews can generally be relied upon (unlike say tripadvisor). If you want something more upmarket then book ahead. Go for somewhere in the town as you will want to rise early for the dawn alms giving procession.

My recent trip I stayed here: http://www.villa-senesouk.com/

Right on the main street, but at the quieter, northern end. The alms round goes right past. Nice breakfast place just a few steps away (turn left). Very comfortable. Nicely positioned between the cheapies and the upmarket places.

You didn't specify a budget. We stayed here recently and really liked it. http://www.lotusvillalaos.com/. It was a rec I got here from someone on fodors. Owned by a very nice involved and friendly Australian couple - with lovely helpful local staff. Also on the quieter end of LP. Great included breakfast in nice courtyard. We stayed in the smallest Frangipani room and it was nice. $78.

Sayo River is my pick. The upstairs rooms have balconies overlooking the Mekong. Locally owned. High season I think $50 per night, no frills but very well situated, atmospheric and clean with a helpful front desk. Book ahead though.