Amantaka Laos
Amantaka
Ban Thongchaleun (PO Box 1090)
Luang Prabang
Laos P.D.R.
www.aman.com
HOTEL INFORMATION
Group
Aman
Date of Creation
October 9, 2009
Hotel General Manager
Tom Rutherford
Development strategy
Set on a large garden estate, Amantaka is housed in graceful French colonial buildings in the UNESCO protected town of Luang Prabang, Laos.
AMANTAKA
History & Story
Amantaka’s name combines the Sanskrit-derived word for ‘peace’ with taka, from Tipitaka, meaning ‘the teaching of the Buddha’ in Theravada scholastic literature. Set on a garden estate, the 24-suite property is housed in graceful white-walled, green-shuttered, French colonial buildings. The property overlooks the UNESCO-protected town of Luang Prabang, Laos’ spiritual capital, and lies within walking distance of the many temples, boutiques and restaurants lining the main street, famous for its remarkably well-preserved mix of traditional and colonial architecture. Amantaka is also close to the banks of the Mekong River and the fabled night market.
Housed in an elegant 19th-century building, Amantaka’s reception area is surrounded by shady verandas and opens to a boutique, gallery and library, overlooking a leafy courtyard. Here, the Aman Spa and Fitness Centre flank the property’s main swimming pool and terrace. Just south of the pool, 24 suites surround a spacious grassy courtyard.
Main Strengths, Special Touch
Natural beauty, spirituality and regal history come together in Luang Prabang. Buddhist temples define the town’s daily rhythms, with more than 30 to visit. Or discover another side of Laotian life at the nearby villages.
Location
The resort is located just south of Mount Phousi in the centre of the picturesque Luang Prabang peninsula. Within walking distance of the many boutiques, bakeries and restaurants along the main street, Amantaka is also close to the banks of the Mekong River and to Luang Prabang’s fabled night market.
Key sites/activities in the area
Tak Bat (Alms Offering). Monks and novices walk through the town every morning at sunrise to accept alms from the townsfolk. While there is a procession on Luang Prabang’s main street, Amantaka hosts a quieter and less crowded tak bat in front of the hotel.
Children’s Corner
(On request with price)
Traditional Ipok-Puppetry
One of only two traditional performing arts in luang prabang, ipok puppetry belongs to the ceremonial traditions of the royal court started in the 1920`s by King Sisavangvong. Using handmade rod-puppets, It was performed in public view in the function.
HOTEL FEATURES
Accommodation
Amantaka offers 24 suites ranging in size from 70 to 120 square metres each. These include eight Suites, four Pool Suites, eight Khan Pool Suites, two Mekong Pool Suites and two Amantaka Pool Suites. Entered from louvered doors from the courtyard, each suite contains a spacious interior and exterior living area.
The eight Suites each feature a king size bed positioned under a high ceiling. Facilities include a writing desk, table and chairs, chaise lounge and cabinet containing a private bar. The bathroom features twin vanities, a dressing area, shower, toilet, and separate island bathtub.
In addition to the high ceilings, king sized bed and other amenities offered in all Amantaka suites, the four Pool Suites also have access to a private pool located just beyond the room’s lounge.
Like the Pool Suites, the Khan Pool Suite features a private pool and outdoor lounge area. The eight Khan Pool Suites also offer a spacious lounge that overlooks the gardens of the central courtyard or a private outdoor area.
Named for the river that influences all aspects of life in Luang Prabang, the two Mekong Pool Suites feature spacious interiors for lounging, dining, and sleeping.
The two stand-alone Amantaka Pool Suites are surrounded by large verandas and offer generous living.
Restaurants & Bars
Amantaka offers authentic Lao and French-influenced cuisine in a number of dining venues. The Dining Room provides an airy colonial ambience while the Lounge Bar is the ideal spot for relaxing with a pre-dinner aperitif or enjoying a snifter and cigar. The breezy Pool Terrace is a casual dining venue for lunch and dinner. Private dining can be arranged in a choice of secluded locations around the property, as well as in the privacy of guests’ suites.
Wellness
Amantaka’s Aman Spa offers guests an exceptional personalised experience. Four luxurious double treatment rooms each feature a dressing area, treatment area, private Jacuzzi and individual relaxation room. There are also steam and sauna facilities with hot and cold plunge pools. A range of holistic massages, body treatments and healing therapies are offered. Beauty services such as signature facials, manicures and pedicures are also available. Aman Spa’s unique chemical-free product range work holistically to nurture the skin and enhance overall well-being.
Amantaka’s Fitness Facility overlooks the resort’s main swimming pool and houses a gymnasium and a yoga studio (offering private classes on request). A private tennis court is situated a short distance from the resort.
Extra Notable Features
Boutique & art gallery
A variety of Lao handicrafts and artworks are available for purchase including textiles from master silk weavers and works by local artists and hilltribe communities.
Cooking class
Amantaka offers the chance to learn delve into the culinary experience of Lao food with a Cooking Class. Lao Cuisine is a blend of Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese food with a local influence. Students are taken to Luang Prabang’s morning market to choose their own fresh vegetables, spices, fish, and meat. After choosing ingredients, guests are shepherded away to a nearby organic farm, where they will learn how to make their Laotian feast. After the class has ended, guests may enjoy their meal.
Hotel & Restaurants Awards
2016
Travel + Leisure: top 10 Resort Hotels in South East Asia.
2014
Conde Nast Traveler Gold list.
2013
2013 Gallivanter’s Guide Awards for Excellence Best Resort in South East Asia.
2013 No.4 Departures, USA March 2013 Editors Recommendation.
City Pictorial China Top 10 2013 Honeymoon Vacations Ranked No 2.
Andrew Harpers Hideaway Report USA-Grand, Awarded 2013 Best Spa.
Number of employees
115