Discover all there is to know about Laos textiles with a visit to the East Meets West Living Crafts Centre. This charming house on the Mekong River’s banks is the headquarters of a project called Ock Pop Tok, meaning east meets west. The goal is to empower Lao women through their high-quality artisanal weaving, and by selling their wares.

Spend an interactive afternoon meeting the women and watching them create fabulous textiles with distinctive patterns woven on traditional looms. You’ll have the chance to hand-dye scarves in vibrant hues and try your hand at spinning and weaving. Learn about the process from start to finish beginning with silk cultivation, the worms and the difference in the silk they spin.

The centre has a lovely garden and cafe where you can tipple on cocktails and nibble on snacks as the sun sets. There is also the opportunity to purchase items direct from the centre.