Laos

Laos

Laos offers a relaxed pace of travel with stunning natural landscapes, ancient temples, and a rich Buddhist culture. Its appeal lies in its pristine environment, friendly locals, and a sense of discovery away from mass tourism.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$20/day
Mid-range$40/day
Luxury$150/day

Known For

Lao People's Democratic RepublicIndochinaSoutheast Asia

🇱🇦 Country Information: Laos

CapitalVientiane
CurrencyLao kip (₭)
Language Lao , French, English
Phone Code+856
Electricity230V (Type A, B, C, E, F)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is not customary in Laos, but it is appreciated for good service
  • For restaurants, you can round up the bill or leave a small amount of change
  • For tour guides and drivers, a small tip at the end of the service is appropriate

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are increasingly available in cities, but less so in rural areas
  • Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, but cash is king outside of these areas
  • Bringing cash (USD or Thai Baht) is advisable for exchange
  • There can be a black market for cash, especially for higher denominations of USD, offering slightly better rates than official exchanges

Cultural Norms

  • Remove your shoes before entering a home or temple
  • Always accept things with your right hand
  • It is customary to offer food or drink when guests arrive
  • Avoid public criticism or confrontation, as it can cause a loss of face

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Laos does not have specific laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, and societal acceptance is limited.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are very strict, especially for narcotics
  • Penalties are severe and can include lengthy prison sentences

Special Laws

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or religious sites
  • Shoulders and knees should be covered
  • Do not touch the head of anyone, as it is considered sacred
  • Do not point with your feet
  • Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon

Common Phrases

HelloSabai dee (sa-bai dee) ສະບາຍດີ
Thank youKhop chai (khawp chai) ຂອບໃຈ

Climate

Generalized climate for the entire country of Laos.

Climate Zone: Tropical Monsoon

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Khao Niew (Sticky Rice) must_try

Steamed glutinous rice is the staple food of Laos, served in a woven basket called a 'tip khao' and eaten with the hands alongside most meals. It form

Larb (Laap) must_try

Often considered the national dish, this spicy minced meat salad is made with fermented fish sauce (padaek), lime juice, herbs, and ground toasted ric

Tam Mak Hoong (Green Papaya Salad) must_try

Unlike the sweeter Thai version, the Lao papaya salad is intensely spicy, savory, and sour, heavily featuring 'padaek' (fermented fish paste). The shr

Sai Oua (Herbal Pork Sausage) street_food

A fragrant grilled pork sausage stuffed with herbs like lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and galangal, giving it a unique Lao flavor. It's often sold b

Khao Poon (Rice Vermicelli Soup) regional_speciality

A popular noodle soup, also known as 'Lao laksa,' featuring rice vermicelli in a rich, coconut-milk-based broth. It's often flavored with spices and s

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Laos-China Railway Train Tickets (LCR) Transport
Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance; up to 3 days in advance possible but risky

The Laos-China Railway is highly popular and tickets often sell out quickly, making on-the-day purchases very difficult.

Fun Facts

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