Luang Prabang’s Night Market is unabashedly tourist-oriented, but don’t let that deter you from visiting; vendors are mostly genial, and many of the items you’ll bargain for can be had at a real deal – especially if you’re willing to buy in bulk. Everyone needs a dozen paper umbrellas and 16 hand-carved Buddha statues, after all. Laotian textiles are of particularly high quality, and can be purchased here or from the fair-trade Ock Pop Tok shop located nearby. Do not buy any products made from animal parts, as you can’t be sure whether or not the materials were procured via illegal poaching. For a beautiful view of the market and the city at night, hike to the top of Phu Si hill in the centre of town. Lit up in the evening, the city’s temples and the tents of the Night Market shine bright.
