We go to see places, consume food, and check things off bucket lists. And yet, sometimes the individuals are the ones who surprise us most. On one of my latest Sites to Explore excursions, I wasn’t expecting much from a small city off the beaten path. But what I found wasn’t so much charm — it was kindness. Real, unpretentious, everyday kindness that had me lingering there and thinking: Is this the world’s kindest city?
Where Is This City?
Located in Luang Prabang — a tranquil riverside town in Laos that finds itself overshadowed by bigger names like Vientiane or Bangkok — the town lacks skyscraping high-rises, high-end shopping centers, and little or no “you have to see it” buzz in big travel magazines. Maybe that is just exactly what it is about.
The residents of the place were not rushed or cynical regarding tourism. Rather, they listened when the stranger was in need — and did not turn away from helping him.
My Surprising Moment
I arrived late at night, tired after missing a train and a language gap that turned ordering food into a guessing game. I went into a small shop just to buy water, but the woman behind the counter saw that I was lost.
Rather than simply selling me the bottle, she moved away from the counter, answered the phone a few times, and assisted me in finding somewhere to lay my head. No added fee. No agenda. Pure kindness. Later, the owner of the guesthouse invited me into his home for tea and snacks, chatted with me about his city, and gave me maps and suggestions without me even asking.
These were not flashy things. But they were real.
Small Things That Made a Big Difference
A student in the neighborhood went three blocks out of his way to share a secret glimpse with me.
One of the families invited me to stay with them for a bit at a public celebration and even offered me supper.
The café barista, seeing I was a visitor, gave me free Wi-Fi and a quiet corner without needing to ask.
A friendly old man halted traffic in order to help me cross a crowded street with my pack.
It wasn’t about getting “tourist service.” It was about being seen, acknowledged, and helped without agenda.
What makes a city nice?
Kindness doesn’t show up in a guidebook. It shows up in the little, everyday moments. It’s the manner in which strangers care for one another. It’s the way safe you can feel, even though you don’t know the language or the culture.
It had all the amenities — without making a big show of it. And that’s what made it special.
NICE PLACES TO GO WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELING These are some of the things that I have learned from Sites to Explore that help find really generous cities:
Choose places that are not too touristy — smaller towns are more quaint. Purchase local B&Bs or guesthouses instead of chain hotels. Go check out public parks, local markets, and cafes — these are where humans mingle. Pick up a few of the local expressions. A “hello” in their tongue will be appreciated. Be open, polite, and curious. Kindness will reflect what we bring too.
📍 Want to Visit This City?
Here’s a map view of where it is. If you ever decide to visit, I promise it won’t just be another trip — it’ll be a memory you carry for a long time.
Some cities are beautiful. Some are historic. But a few? A few are just kind. This trip reminded me that the most unforgettable parts of travel aren’t always the landmarks — they’re the people. And when strangers treat you like family, that’s when you know a city has a big heart.
At Sites to Explore, we believe in discovering more than just places — we uncover emotions, cultures, and human connections. If you’ve ever visited a place that felt this warm, we’d love to hear from you or help you plan your next feel-good journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What made this city feel so kind?
The people. Their willingness to help, smile, and connect without expecting anything in return.
Q2: Is this city safe for solo travelers?
Yes. I traveled solo and felt secure even during late evening walks. Locals were respectful and helpful.
Q3: Do I need to know the local language?
Not necessarily. A few basic words help, but most locals were eager to communicate with gestures or smiles.
Q4: Can I stay in this city on a budget?
Absolutely. It offers budget guesthouses, local eateries, and cheap transport — ideal for any traveler.
Q5: How can I find other kinds of cities like this?
Follow Sites to Explore for similar offbeat travel experiences or reach out to us directly for personalized suggestions!
