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 Laos

When 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 Travelers

To 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!