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Laos Travel Guide

Before travelling to a country, most clients will search for the reliable information source related to the visa procedures, Dos and Don'ts, weather and climate or other information like transportation, currency etc. Knowing that, we are pleased to provide you the essential travel guides to Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar. With our expert team’s knowledge and experience, the below Indochina Travel Guide & News are certainly vital for your pre-trip preparation

Laos Overview

Laos Travel Packages is delighted to offer customized tours to four tropical countries, each with unique characteristics despite their many similarities, and Laos is no exception. For example, one of the customs you'll encounter, as noted in the "Do's and Don’ts" section of our Laos travel guide, is that you should always accept any water offered by the Lao people, even if you’re not thirsty. Before embarking on your journey, explore our comprehensive Laos travel guide. It provides essential information, including four compelling reasons to visit the land of a million elephants, details on weather and climate to help you determine the best time to go, tips on transportation for getting around, an easy visa application process, and much more to help you prepare for your trip to Laos with Laos Travel Packages.

Laos Overview

Laos Overview

An Overview of Travelling to LaosLaos, a landlocked country bordered by Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, and China, is a captivating destination for travelers.Laos' Climate: Laos experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons:- Wet Season: From May to September, characterized by heavy rainfall.- Dry Season: From October to April, with lower humidity and less rain.So When is the Best Time to Visit Laos: The ideal time to explore Laos is from September, after the summer rains have ended, until the start of the dry season around April. This period offers pleasant weather conditions and is perfect for enjoying the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.4 Reasons Why You Should Visit Laos1. Laos is an Adventurer’s DreamDon’t skip Laos as just a passage between Thailand and Vietnam. This country is a hidden gem for adventure seekers, offering a wealth of natural wonders. From exploring mysterious caves and enchanting waterfalls to hiking through awe-inspiring mountains, Laos is a treasure trove of thrilling experiences. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and embark on unforgettable adventures.2. Laos Has Awesome CuisineWhile Vietnamese and Thai restaurants may be common, Lao cuisine remains a delightful discovery for many. Characterized by its fresh, healthy ingredients and minimal use of processed foods, Lao cuisine offers a unique and flavorful experience.The staple of Lao cuisine is steamed sticky rice, often eaten with fingers, accompanied by essential ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, and Padaek (fermented fish sauce). Meals typically feature sticky rice, spicy soups, an array of fresh herbs, meat-based side dishes, steamed fish, and crunchy salads.Lao food highlights include:- Larb: A spicy, flavorful mixture of chopped meat (often chicken or duck), sometimes served raw with a blend of greens, herbs, and spices.- Tam Mak Hoong: A vibrant, spicy green papaya salad.- Khao Poon: A fragrant rice vermicelli soup.- Khao Jee Sandwich: A delicious baguette sandwich with Lao flavors.Exploring Lao cuisine provides a genuine taste of the country's rich culinary heritage.3. Hospitable LaosLaos, with its 68 diverse ethnic groups and some of the lowest population densities in Asia, offers a truly welcoming atmosphere. No visit to Laos is complete without experiencing the warmth and friendliness of its people. Despite modest living conditions, Laotians are renowned for their hospitality, always greeting visitors with genuine smiles and open hearts. Engaging with locals, whether in markets or small villages, reveals their natural kindness, tolerance, and generosity, making your stay in Laos a memorable and enriching experience.4. Laos is Not Really ExpensiveTraveling in Laos is surprisingly affordable. With a daily budget of $30-40 USD, you can comfortably secure a private room, enjoy delicious Lao food from local markets, use public transportation, and participate in various activities. Although Laos is landlocked and less developed, which can lead to higher prices for imported goods and services, it remains much cheaper compared to Western standards. While some tours may be pricier than in neighboring countries, Laos offers excellent value for travelers looking for a cost-effective adventure.

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Laos Visa Guide

Laos Visa Guide

Travelers to Laos must obtain a visa before entering the country. The following Laos Visa Guide will assist you in preparing for a seamless and enjoyable Laos tour experience.Laos Visa exemptions:Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa to visit Laos for a specified period:- Visa-free for 14 days: Myanmar (Burma).- Visa-free for 15 days: Luxemburg, Japan and Switzerland- Visa-free for 30 days: Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei.If you are not from one of the countries with a visa exemption for Laos or if you plan to stay longer, you will need to apply for a visa. 30-day visas are now available on arrival at most international borders.How to apply for a visa to Laos?Visitors to Laos have three main options for obtaining a visa:1. Laos Visa On Arrival:Obtaining a Laos Visa On Arrival is the most convenient, inexpensive, and efficient way to secure a visa. It's ideal for travelers who are short on time or those who do not have easy access to Lao embassies or consulates.1.1. Where to Get a Visa On Arrival in Laos?- International Airports:Vientiane Wattay International AirportLuang Prabang International AirportPakse International AirportSavannakhet International AirportBorder Checkpoints and Border Crossings:- Thailand-Laos Borders:Chiangkhong – Houixay, Chiang Rai to Bokeo ProvinceHoui Koln – Nam Ngeun, Nan to Sayabouly ProvinceNakaxeng – Kaenthao, Loei to Sayabouly ProvinceLao-Thai Friendship Bridge I, Nongkhai-Vientiane CapitalLao-Thai Friendship Bridge II, Moukdahan-Savannakhet ProvinceLao-Thai Friendship Bridge III, Nakorn Phanom-Khammouane ProvinceChongmek – Vangtao, Ubol Ratchathani to Champasack Province- Cambodia-Laos Borders:Dong Calor – Veun Kham, Cambodia to Champasack Province- Vietnam-Laos Borders:Nameo – Banleui, Thanh Hoa to Huaphanh ProvinceNamkan – Namkan, Nghe An to Xieng Khouang ProvinceKeoneua – Nampao (Lak Sao), Ha Tinh to Bolikhamxay ProvinceLaobao – Dansavanh, Quang Tri to Savannakhet Province- China-Laos Borders:Mohan – Botene, Yunnan to Luang Namtha ProvinceFor a detailed list of all checkpoints, visit: Laos Immigration Checkpoints1.2. Visa on Arrival Stamp FeeThe cost of a Laos Visa On Arrival varies depending on your nationality. A price list is displayed at the visa counter.- USA, UK: USD $35- Canada: USD $42- India: USD $40- Sweden: USD $31- China: USD $20- Australia and other countries: USD $301.3. Requirements for a Laos Visa On Arrival- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date, with at least 2 blank pages.- Photos: 2 passport-sized photos (5 cm high x 4 cm wide, white background, no glasses, no facial expression).- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed by the applicant (forms are available at the visa window at Lao ports of entry or distributed before landing if arriving by plane).- Cash for Visa Fee: All visa fees must be paid in cash (Laos Kip, US dollars, or Thai baht).For further information, please contact our consultant for the best support.1.4. Lists of countries CANNOT get Laos Visas on Arrival?The passport holders of the following (29) countries are Not eligible for Laos Visas on Arrival. AfghanistanCote d’IvoireLiberiaPakistanSwazilandAlgeriaGhanaLibya SenegalTongaBangladeshGuineaMozambiqueSierra LeoneTurkeyBurundiGuinea BissauNauruSri LankaZambiaCameroonJordanNigerSurinameZimbabweCongoLesothoNigeriaSyria* How Can The Citizens Of The Countries In The List Get Lao Visa?Citizens of countries that are not eligible for a Laos Visa on Arrival must apply for a visa through local Lao Embassies or Consulates. Here’s how you can obtain a Laos visa if you’re from one of these countries:- Apply at a Lao Embassy or Consulate:Visit the nearest Lao Embassy or Consulate in your country. You can find the address and contact information for Lao diplomatic missions on the official Laos Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or through your local embassy's website.- Travel via Neighboring Countries:If there is no Lao Embassy or Consulate in your country, you can apply for a visa at a Lao diplomatic mission located in one of Laos' neighboring countries: Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Thailand, or Vietnam.Please ensure you have the necessary documents and visa application form before visiting the embassy or consulate in these neighboring countries.For both methods, you will need to provide the required documents, such as a valid passport, completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, and the visa fee. Always check the specific requirements and processing times with the respective embassy or consulate to ensure a smooth application process.2. Visa in Advance:2.1. Apply at a Lao Embassy or Consulate:If you prefer to secure your visa before traveling, or if you are entering Laos through a border that does not offer Visa on Arrival, you can apply in advance.2.2. Required Documents: To apply for a Laos visa, you will typically need to prepare the following documents:If you prefer to secure your visa before traveling, or if you are entering Laos through a border that does not offer Visa on Arrival, you can apply in advance.- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date and have at least 2 blank pages.Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out and sign the visa application form. Forms are available at the Lao Embassy or Consulate or can often be downloaded from their website.- Passport-Sized Photos: Two recent photos that meet the required specifications (usually 5 cm x 4 cm, white background).- Visa Fee: The fee varies depending on your nationality and is payable in cash (USD or local currency).Note: Processing times can vary depending on the embassy or consulate. It’s advisable to check with the specific Lao mission for the most accurate information and any additional requirements. This option is ideal for those who plan to stay longer or have specific travel requirements.The Laos government offers an e-visa that allows citizens of 150 countries to apply for a tourist visa online. For a full list of eligible countries, visit: Who Can Apply.3. Apply for E-VISAThe Laos government offers an e-visa that allows citizens of 150 countries to apply for a tourist visa online. For a full list of eligible countries, visit: Who Can Apply E-Visa to Laos.3.1. E-Visa Details:- Validity: The e-visa approval letter is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance.- Length of Stay: Allows a stay of up to 30 days from the date of arrival in Laos.- Entry: E-visas are valid for a single entry only.3.2. Application Process:- Apply Online: Submit your application at Lao eVisa Application.- Receive E-Visa: After processing, you will receive your e-visa approval letter via email.- Print and Present: Print a hard copy of the e-visa approval letter and present it at flight check-in.3.3. Important Notes:- Border Acceptance: Not all border crossings in Laos accept e-visas. Please check the list of accepted ports of entry and exit before applying.- For more information and to verify accepted entry points, visit the eVisa to Laos FAQ.By following these guidelines and preparing the necessary documents, you can ensure a hassle-free entry into Laos and enjoy your visit to the country.

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Laos Weather and Climate

Laos Weather and Climate

Laos’s climate can be described as tropical monsoon in most of the plains and subtropical in the far north and mountainous regions. It is strongly influenced by the monsoon, resulting in two distinct seasons: the winter monsoon, which brings pleasant weather and cooler nights from November to February, and the summer monsoon, which brings heavy rainfall, high humidity, and plenty of sunshine from May to early or mid-October, sometimes causing discomfort.However, the monsoon patterns are quite irregular; they don't always arrive at the same time each year or with the same intensity. The average temperature ranges from 22°C to 27°C year-round, with warm and sunny days almost throughout the year. The climate during the wet season varies across regions in Laos.For example, the lowlands experience higher temperatures around 29°C, while the average temperature in the higher mountain valleys is about 23°C. During the cooler months, nighttime temperatures often drop to 15-20°C (58-68°F), and in lower areas like Vientiane, temperatures can even fall below freezing in the mountainous regions.What is the best time to visit Laos? The high tourist season in Laos falls during the dry, cool period from late October to February, when the air is clearer and temperatures are lower, especially in November and December.Additionally, the higher water levels in the rivers during this time offer excellent opportunities for river trips, allowing you to explore some of the best destinations in Laos in a truly remarkable way.While the cool season is a fantastic time to visit, the brief hot season from March to April is less enjoyable for travel. The months from March to May are generally not the most appealing time to visit Laos.Another factor that can make travel during the hot season less attractive is the smoke produced when farmers burn degraded forests and rice stubble to prepare the land for the next crop cycle, which can sometimes be quite uncomfortable.However, the shoulder season in July and August is worth considering if you prefer smaller crowds, fewer tourists, and lower hotel prices. Although the weather can be wet with high humidity across most of Laos, the rains are more consistent, and the landscapes are breathtaking, covered in lush emerald green.If you plan to visit areas like Luang Prabang during this period, you can still expect to encounter some great weather.

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Laos Pre-Trip Preparation

Laos Pre-Trip Preparation

Traveling with Laos Travel Packages ensures that your tickets, accommodation, transportation, and meals are all taken care of. However, to ensure that your holiday in Laos is pleasant, safe, and enjoyable, there are a few things you'll need to prepare on your own.Preparation for a Laos TripTo ensure a joyful and smooth trip to Laos, it’s essential to prepare ahead of time:1. Visa and Passport: Ensure your Laos visa is ready before departure. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the end date of your trip. 2. Travel Guide: Familiarize yourself with Laos by reading the Laos Travel Guide. This will give you a general understanding of the country.3. Travel Itinerary: Review your travel itinerary carefully and clarify any questions with your travel agent. If issues arise while traveling, contact your local manager for assistance.4. Health Information: Inform your travel agent of any health conditions or concerns so they can adjust your itinerary if needed. 5. Currency: Check that your credit card will work in Laos. Alternatively, visit a bank to exchange your money into kip (Lao currency).6. Cell Phone Coverage: Contact your cell phone provider to arrange an international data plan if you need coverage during your trip.7. Weather Check: Look up the weather forecast to pack appropriate clothing for your trip.8. Flight Details: Double-check your departure flight details and set an alarm to ensure you don’t miss it.9. Learn Basic Phrases: Before you leave, learn some essential Lao phrases such as "Hello" (Sa-bai Dee) and "Thank you" (Khawp Jai).With these preparations, you'll be set for a memorable and enjoyable experience in Laos.What to bring along for your trip to Laos?To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Laos, consider bringing the following items:1. Personal Papers: Carry essential documents such as your passport, visa, travel insurance certificate, air tickets, and tour voucher. It’s highly recommended to make paper copies of your passport and driver's license in case you need to replace a lost passport.2. Money: Bring a mix of payment options including credit and debit cards, traveler’s cheques, and cash in US Dollars or Thai Baht. ATMs can be scarce in places like Huay Xai, so also carry some Laos kip currency. A money pouch can help keep your cash and cards secure.3. Entertainment: Pack some games or activities for long bus rides or evenings with locals and fellow travelers.4. Camera Equipment: Don’t forget your camera, along with extra batteries and memory cards to capture your memories.5. Cell Phone Accessories: Bring your cell phone, charger, and a portable power bank to stay connected.6. Medication: Carry any required medication along with a doctor’s letter if it’s prescription medicine. 7. Dry Pack: If you plan on engaging in water-based activities such as river tubing, kayaking, or rafting, a dry pack will help keep your belongings safe and dry.8. Laptop Charger: If you’re bringing a laptop, make sure to include its charger.9. First Aid Kit: Pack a basic first aid kit for outdoor activities to address minor injuries or issues that may arise.With these items, you'll be well-prepared for your adventure in Laos.What clothes/items to bring along for Laos trip?To stay comfortable and protected during your trip to Laos, pack the following items:1. Sun Protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and mosquito spray to shield yourself from the sun and insects.2. Insect Repellent: Pack insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs.3. Footwear: Comfortable sandals or shoes are essential. Consider sandals with rugged soles for hiking and good walking boots with ankle support. Also, include a comfortable pair of shoes for everyday wear.4. Clothing: Choose lightweight, light-colored clothing to help reflect the sun and stay cool. Include lightweight and loose-fitting garments made of cotton or linen to manage the humidity.5. Temple Attire: Pack clothes appropriate for visiting temples, such as long pants or skirts and long-sleeved tops, to show respect at religious sites.With these essentials, you'll be well-prepared for the climate and activities during your trip to Laos.

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Laos Transportation

Laos Transportation

In recent years, significant improvements to Laos' road system have made traveling to and within the country much more accessible and enjoyable for tourists. New routes from neighboring countries are continuously opening up, offering various convenient ways to explore Laos. With modern transportation options, including several highways and airports, getting around during your holiday in Laos has never been easier.How to access Laos?By FlightThere are several airlines offering international flights to Laos, including Lao Airlines, Thai Airways, and Vietnam Airlines. Lao Airlines operates flights to Vientiane and Luang Prabang, while the third international airport in Pakse offers connections to and from Siem Reap, Phnom Penh (Cambodia), and Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam).For most visitors coming from outside Asia, the easiest route is to fly to Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi International Airport) and then take a 1-hour flight to Vientiane Wattay International Airport or a 2-hour flight to Luang Prabang.Additionally, there are five weekly flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi in Vietnam to Vientiane, operated by Vietnam Airlines and Lao Airlines. There are also three weekly flights from Chiang Mai in Thailand, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Kunming in China, and Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.Currently, Laos has three international airports:- Luang Prabang International Airport- Pakse International Airport- Wattay Airport (Vientiane)By LandTraveling to Laos by land is also an option, with several border crossings available between Thailand and Laos. Key border points include:- Nong Khai (Thailand) - Pakse (Laos)- Chiang Khong in Chiang Rai (Thailand) - Huay Xai (Laos)- Mukdahan (Thailand) - Savannakhet (Laos)- Chong Mek (Thailand) - Vang Tao (Laos)From Vietnam, you can enter Laos through border points such as Lao Bao in Khung Tri - Dan Savan in Savannakhet and others.There is also a daily overnight sleeper train that departs from Thailand at 8 pm and arrives at the Laos border the next morning. Although this train is an affordable option, it is not a popular choice due to the lack of necessary infrastructure and the relatively obscure location of the station.How to get around Laos?By FlightFor travelers visiting major tourist destinations like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, and Savannakhet, flights are a quick and convenient option. Lao Airlines offers reasonably priced flights connecting these cities, making it an ideal choice for those covering long distances or with limited time.Advantages: Fast and convenient.Disadvantages: Higher ticket prices.By BoatWith over 4,600 km of navigable waterways, traveling by river is a popular and scenic way to explore Laos. Whether you choose a leisurely slow ferry or an exhilarating speedboat, this mode of transport offers a memorable experience, especially for those avoiding the challenging road conditions.Advantages: A common and scenic way to travel.Disadvantages: Can be crowded.By TaxiTaxis are available for hire by the trip, by the hour, or even by the day. They offer a quick and efficient way to get around, especially for short distances.Advantages: Fast and convenient.Disadvantages: Not ideal for sightseeing, as it limits your ability to explore freely.By Motorbike or Tuk TukFor a unique and adventurous way to explore Laos, motorbikes and tuk-tuks are excellent choices. These modes of transportation allow you to experience the local atmosphere up close and offer a one-of-a-kind journey through the country.Advantages: A unique and immersive experience.Disadvantages: Can be adventurous and less comfortable for long journeys.By Express TrainLaos has recently introduced express train services, providing a modern and efficient way to travel between major cities like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Boten. This high-speed rail option is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and time-saving alternative to road travel, offering scenic views along the way.Advantages: Fast, comfortable, cheap and a great way to enjoy the landscape.Disadvantages: Limited routes and schedules.

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Dos and Don'ts in Laos

Dos and Don'ts in Laos

For international travelers, especially those visiting Laos for the first time, navigating the cultural norms can be challenging. Therefore, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Do’s and Don’ts of Lao culture, which are closely tied to the traditions and daily lives of the people.Understanding these cultural guidelines will help make your Laos tour a truly joyful experience.Dos for a Respectful and Enjoyable Trip to LaosWhen traveling in Laos, following these guidelines will help you have a smooth and respectful experience:1. Choose Reputable Travel Agents:Always book your tours through well-known travel agents. Websites like Tripadvisor are great for checking reviews. If you skip this step, you risk getting low-quality service, which could result in staying at dirty hotels, using uncomfortable transportation, or having poor meals.2. Walk and Play Sports: Use your feet only for walking or playing sports. This is a sign of respect for local customs.3. Savor Lao Cuisine: Take every opportunity to enjoy the delicious local food. This not only enhances your experience but also supports local businesses and farmers.4. Greet with “Sabai Dee”:When greeting Lao people, say “sabai dee” (the Lao word for "hello") with a smile. Place your palms together below your chin and slightly bow your head. This gesture is a polite and respectful way to say hello.5. Keep Laos Clean: Help preserve the beauty of Laos by not littering. Keeping the environment clean is greatly appreciated by locals.6. Respect Religious Customs:When visiting religious sites, dress modestly in long, body-covering clothes. Lao people appreciate clean and neatly dressed visitors. When taking photos, be mindful of personal space and ask for permission when possible. A neat appearance and good hygiene are important, as strong body odor is considered offensive.7. Observe Shoe Etiquette: Always remove your shoes before entering a Lao person’s home or stepping onto stairs. This shows respect for the household.8. Show Respect When Passing Others: If you need to pass by someone who is seated, do so by gently crouching down. This is a respectful way to acknowledge their presence.9. Accept Offered Water: It is customary to accept any water offered by Lao people, even if you’re not thirsty. This gesture shows your respect for their hospitality.10. Respect Monks and Nuns: Always show respect to monks, novices, and nuns. They hold a revered place in Lao society.11. Support the Local Economy: Whenever possible, purchase local handicrafts and products. This helps support the local economy and contributes to the well-being of the community.By following these dos, you’ll be able to navigate Laos with ease and ensure that you show the proper respect to the local culture.Don’ts in Laos: Essential Notes for TravelersTo ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience in Laos, be mindful of the following:1. Don’t Touch Someone’s Head or Show Public Affection: Avoid touching anyone’s head or displaying affection in public, as this can cause embarrassment to your host.2. Don’t Point with Your Feet: Never point with your feet or toes, and avoid raising or propping your feet up on tables. The feet are considered the lowest and dirtiest part of the body in Lao culture.3. Don’t Touch Monks, Heads, or Women: Refrain from touching the robe of a monk, anyone’s head, or women. These actions are considered disrespectful.4. Don’t Walk Around in Swimwear: Avoid walking around in a swimsuit or bikini. Modesty is highly valued in Lao culture.5. Don’t Wear Inappropriate Clothing at Religious Sites: Do not wear shorts or tank tops to pagodas, temples, or other religious places. Such attire is seen as disrespectful, and you may even be denied entry.6. Don’t Sit Higher than a Monk or Buddha Statue: When sitting, ensure you are not positioned higher than a monk, your host, or a statue of Buddha. This is a sign of respect.7. Don’t Give Gifts or Money to Children or Novices: Avoid giving gifts or money directly to children or poor novices in temples, as this encourages begging. It’s better to donate to established organizations or village elders.8. Don’t Step Over People: Never step over any part of a person’s body. If you must, always ask to be excused first.9. Don’t Use Plastic Bags or Litter: Help protect the environment by not using plastic bags and by taking your rubbish back to towns or villages for proper disposal.10. Don’t Shout or Raise Your Voice: Lao people speak softly and value calmness. Avoid shouting or raising your voice, especially in public, to prevent causing discomfort or offense.11. Don’t Use Drugs: The use of drugs is illegal in Laos and can result in severe penalties.12. Don’t Buy Antique Buddha Images or Sacred Items:Refrain from purchasing antique Buddha images or other sacred items, as many of them have been stolen from unprotected temples and sites.By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to navigate Lao culture with respect and enjoy an unforgettable holiday in Laos!

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