Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang, a small, charming city at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. The affluent city center bears strong signs of French colonialism in the architecture and city layout, and caters to tourists who happen to visit this somewhat off-the-beaten-path city. Lush rainforest and rice fields surround the city up and down the river valley, while the mountaintops are inhabited by the impoverished Hmong tribes, who cultivate corn at the higher altitudes and produce crafts to be sold at city markets some ways away. Kuang Si Falls south of the city provide a natural escape from bustling city life, and are co-located with an Asian black bear refuge and rescue center operated by Free The Bears.