Fodor's Expert Review Sofitel Luang Prabang

Though some say this elegant hotel was a French governor's mansion, in actuality it was the colonial-era prison (complete with guard towers); regardless, it's now one of Luang Prabang's most exclusive resorts. Slightly hidden away on a quiet side street, the hotel's historic buildings stand amid lovely courtyards. One building is a spa, one is a cooking school, and there is a swimming pool along with a sunken seating area with a bonfire for chilly nights. Rooms come with poster beds and have either hot tubs or plunge pools. The restaurant serves fantastic farm-to-table Lao and French cuisine.