TIME magazine has named Luang Prabang in Laos as a “hidden paradise” and one of the 50 greatest places to visit in the world in 2023. The town’s natural beauty, including turquoise waterfalls and sunset boat trips on the Mekong river, as well as its Buddhist temples, were noted as highlights. Despite its remote location, the town also offers luxurious boutique hotels housed in historic French colonial buildings, including the Amantaka and Sofitel Luang Prabang. The town’s recognition by TIME follows similar nods from National Geographic, CNN, Wanderlust and Traveller of Australia as a top tourist destination. Only two other locations in Southeast Asia, Phuket and the Isan region of Thailand, also made the magazine’s list.