Luang Prabang has two markets; the day market and the night market.

Head just outside of the city centre along the main road to find a central covered market surrounded by impromptu stalls and goods laid out on blankets on the floor.

Whether you visit during the day or in the evening you will find the market packed with both locals and people from the hill tribes, come down from the mountains to buy, sell, bargain, eat and meet.

Every type of fruit and vegetable imaginable is on sale at the day market.

The freshest produce imaginable, just picked that morning. In its truly fresh, natural state, untouched by pesticides or machines, the flavours are heightened and the scents of freshly cut fruits and prepared salads are invigorating.

In the covered market you will be greeted by the heady perfume of the spice stalls then the sweets and cakes, freshly-caught fish and meat stalls further on.

As dusk falls the produce stalls are packed away and the night market begins. Silk and cotton garments, linens and handicrafts are laid out in the place of herbs and fruits.

Sparkling jewellery and beaded cushions, perfect souvenirs and gifts, are available very cheaply, and a deal can often be struck making this the ideal venue for the shrewd bargain-hunter.

Chefs set up their makeshift kitchens and prepare fabulous noodle dishes, delicate spring rolls and rich, tasty soups.

The markets are very busy places, packed with locals, not tourists. This slice of life offers wonderful colours, smells and fascinating sights to the visitor.