Laos Guide

 

Introduction to the country

Laos is a country located in the South Eastern part of the Asian continent. Vientiane, which is the largest city in the country, also serves as its capital city. The official language of the country is Lao, while French is also a recognized language. The landscape of the country is still very much natural, making it a perfect backpackers’ destination.

When To Go? / Best Time to visit

The seasons in Laos include the dry season that occurs from November to April and the wet season that occurs from May to October. The dry season is generally considered as the best time for a visit to Laos. This is because the temperature during this time is favorable. You might need to prepare enough clothes to keep warm if you intend to visit the mountainous areas during this period as they will be very cold. The period from March to May have the hottest weather in the country as temperatures could go as high as 38 degrees.

How do I get a Visa?

You can get a Laos visa from border crossings and international airports. For a 30 days’ visa, you will be expected to pay 30 USD. This fee would be costlier if you are to use the Thailand currency (baht) to pay in the Thailand border. Apart from the fact that you should have a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months when you are entering, you would also require 2 passport photographs. After your 30 days’ visa has expired, you can apply for an extension of visa at the Immigration office in Luang Prabang or Vientiane for 2 USD per day. You can also get such extensions from specific travel agents at 3 USD. If you leave later than you are supposed to, you will be expected to pay a penalty of 10 USD. Overstaying for a long period of time could get you arrested and imprisoned.

Do I need Vaccines?

If you are traveling in from a country with high yellow fever risk, the government would require you to show proof of your yellow fever vaccine. Recommended vaccines include influenza, pneumonia, shingles, chickenpox, pertussis, diphtheria, tetanus, rubella, mumps, measles, polio, meningitis, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis B and hepatitis A.

Travel Safety

There are some risks of violent crimes around Laos, especially in Xaisomboun Province. It is advisable to stay away from the province if you mustn’t go there. You should also avoid restaurants with special or happy menu items as shakes, pizza or other food types could be drugged and could put an individual at a high risk of being assaulted. Always move around with your identification to avoid detention or fine.

What To Pack?

6. • Clothing

   • Comfortable shoes or sandals

   • Light colored, lightweight clothing to reflect the sun

   • Dry pack for water-based activities such as rafting, kayaking or tubing

   • Raincoat if traveling during the wet season

   • An unlocked mobile phone that can be used with a sim card from Laos

   • Earplugs

   • Deodorant

   • Sunscreen

   • Refillable water bottle 

Essential Language Phrases

• Sabaidee – Hello

• Khop Chai – Thank you

• Khop Chai Ly Ly – Thank you very much

• Sabaidee baw – How are you?

• Sep Ly – Delicious

• Baw Khowjai – I don’t understand

 

Vientiane

Vientiane allows you the feel the laid-back vibe of Laos’ capital city. The city allows you to witness the flow of the might River Mekong. You also get to witness the slow life pace of the indigenes as they go about their daily activity and the smell from the quaint bread bakeries.

Northern Laos – Luang Prabang

The popular and picturesque Luang Prabang town features a number of colorful markets, sparkling streets, and twinkling temples. You can enjoy local delicacies and some relaxation in the city.

Northern Laos – Nong Khiaw & Vieng Xai

You can go on a stroll to see jungle scenery and stunning mountains in Nong Khiaw. During your stroll, you can stop in tribe villages off hill. The mountain wilderness, friendly locals and bumpy roads are a major attraction of tourists to the town. Vieng Xai contains a caverns network that military planners used during the Vietnam war. Tourists are now allowed to visit the cave.

 

Van Vieng

The town used to have the reputation of being the best place to party. However, despite the banning of parties, it is still worth visiting. The town is naturally beautiful with a lot of adventurous activities to be carried out including kayaking, rafting, and climbing.

Phonsavan

This town also regarded to as the Plain of Jars, have stone jars in their hundreds, some of them bit enough to contain a human. The age of the stone jars is predicted to be about 2,000 years. However, nobody knows for sure how they were created or the purpose they served. There are guesses about the stone jars being used as chambers for burial

Four Thousand Islands

After partying and adventuring, you should take a chill in the Four Thousand Islands, locally known as Si Phan Don. You could lazy around in your hammock or read while watching the Irrawaddy dolphins. There is also the opportunity to hire a bicycle so you can cycle from Don Det to Don Khong. Don Khong hosts the largest South East Asia’s Waterfall known as Khone Phapheng Waterfall.

Travel Budget Accommodation/Food/Drinks/Transport/Activities)

The price of accommodation in Laos is very cheap at 45,000 to 80,000 Lak a night, which is equivalent to 5.2 USD to 9.24 USD. This rate is for an air-conditioned private room. At double that price, you should be able to pay for basic accommodation in any part of Laos. Virtually all estate features free breakfast and free wi-fi. For 1.4 USD, you can get street food, which is the most common eating form in cities. You should budget for 2.8 USD if you want a Western meal. This could go as high as over 10 USD equivalent for a mix of local dishes and western meal. You should be able to feed comfortably with an average of 12 USD equivalent per day. For a 5 to 6 hours’ journey, you should budget 9.24 to 15 USD. Transportation starts at less than 1 USD equivalent. Guided treks and zip lining cost around 25 to 30 USD fine you can rent kayaks or tube at less than 12 USD. Your total daily budget should be between 25 and 35 USD/

Saving Tips

10. • Book for your activities on your own

    • Opt for local dishes

    • Use local transportation

    • Utilize the local markets

How to Get Around?

You can access some of the cities including Savannakhet, Pakse, Oudomxai, Huay Xai, Luang Prabang and Xieng Khouang with a flight. Pre-arranging travel for journeys outside Vientiane is best carried out with tour companies so that you do not get to pay extra charges or experience delays. Few of the roads are suitable for night and all-weather driving, even though the country features several paved roads. Do not hire a car except you are very experienced with driving.

Things Not To Do

• • Enter a motorbike at your own risk. It is worthy of note there are no trauma centers in Laos, you might have to cross into Thailand if you are involved in an accident and requirement treatment

  • Do not wear a bikini to walk around or bath nude

  • Drugs including opium and marijuana are banned

  • Do not buy wildlife products or antiques

  • Public display of affection is not allowed

  • Don’t rush, argue or shout

  • Do not wear shoes inside a temple or home

  • Do not use your feet to touch anybody

  • Do not get into an argument with the police

  • Do not trek absent a guide

  • Do not touch a monk, especially if you are a female

 

Top 10 Best things to do in Laos

If you go by the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you probably know of this tourist destination. It is one of the few exotic destinations in the world; the population is dominated by Buddhists.

The fun here is endless; the places of interests and heritage sites guarantee you entertained throughout your visit. Roller coasters define the fun in Laos; it is more of a cultural ride and best way to view the country.

The fun options here are endless but you can’t go everywhere. Here are the top best things to do in Laos.

1. Luang Prabang

The town is vibrant and charming. It is located in northern Laos with most of its building designed with the royal style. While it is relatively small, there are lots of options to explore here. There are at least 30 temples in the town.

The former royal palaces in the town also make it a top to visit destination. The architecture of most buildings is inspired by French life. Natural sceneries and features characterize the town. There is a lot to view and experience here.

2. That Luang

This is a national symbol of Laos; it is on the country’s official seal. It is considered a sacred monument for cultural and religious purposes. That Luang is unique; from the outside, it looks like a fortress surrounded by high walls.

It also features high walls and temples with the main stupa. The top is covered with gold leaf that stands 148 feet above the street level.

3. Vang Vieng

The ambiance and architectural skill in the town are incredible. It is heavenly here; the place attracts backpackers all year round from across the world.

If your vacation is about adventure and exploring, the rivers and mountains here guarantee your satisfaction. Limestone cliffs and scenic town views make the place unique. The infamous “tubing” is witnessed here; be sure to set a foot in Va Vieng whenever visiting Laos.

4. Wat Sisaket

The location of Wat Sisaket makes it unique. The walls on the streets and housing of thousands of people are dominated by Buddha images and rows.  You will come across the highest number of Buddhas images that date from the 16^th century.

Most of the influential actions of Buddhas was between the 16^th and 19^th century. The images here are made from stone, wood, and bronze. Even if you are not after the religion, there is a lot to learn from the locals here about the over 6,800 Buddhas.

5. Bolaven Plateau and Tad Fane Waterfall

The plateau is located in southern Laos and renowned for its great sceneries and unexplored corners. The ethnic villages also characterize this part of Laos.

The best waterfalls in the world including Dong Hua Sao and Tad Fane are in this location. Spectacular views of the water and landscapes define this plateau region that lied 1350 meters above sea level.

6. Bokeo

You need to set out time to explore this northern part of Laos. It is peaceful and rich in natural resources. The mountains and tropical rain-forests define the hilly areas here. Locals here are experts in domestic farming.

They are also reserved for their traditions and culture from language to cooking styles. There is a lot to learn from the locals in Bokeo because of their reserved way of thinking, which uniquely identifies the area.

You will also experience the beauty of the waterfalls and enjoy the perfect weather that makes it the best for farmlands.

7. Buddha Park

The park here is famous because of the 200 religious statues standing tall on the capital. The 40-meter high Buddha image is the largest in the world.

While it was established in 1958, there is still a lot to do with its architecture and quality materials that make it a landmark in Laos. The image was established by a monk with expertise and deep knowledge in Hinduism and Buddhism.

The combination of the two religions attributes to the mixed image in the park. The Hindu gods, demons, and Buddha images are equally represented here.

8. The Plain of Jars

It is the distinguishing feature among all attractions in Laos. Most of the city of Xieng Khouang is dominated by stone jars since its establishment as a town centuries ago.

There is no clear explanation of the existence of the stone jars. The mysterious jars are carved from sandstone and granite of different sizes making it natural beauty.

9. Wat Phu

The name means mountain temple. It is a hilly area that offers stunning views of the city. The Mekong river offers beautiful sceneries on the hillside.

The pillars, lintels, and barays make it more amazing. There is a lot to learn about the ruined Khmer temple complex if you are enthusiastic about the Laos culture and history. Getting to the hilltop guarantees you stunning views of the surrounding and waterfalls.

10. That Ing Hang Stupa

The decoration and carvings on the nine meters high making it a unique place. Be sure to visit to find out more about Buddhism. It is located in Savannakhet in the middle of Laos. It is renowned as the birthplace for Kaysone Phomvihane, one of the popular leaders of Laos.

Laos is beautiful and scenic. It is not much about the destinations but the activities you will do when you get there.

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Conclusion

Laos is generally a nice country worth visiting. The sights, food and friendly people will surely make up an experience you will forever treasure.

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