Known since ancient times as Lan Xang (Land
of the Million Elephants), Laos offers the modern world a glimpse
of old Indochina. Visitors will encounter a country that is less
developed than its neighbours China, Thailand and Vietnam, and
perhaps more reserved than any other stop in the region. They will
also find an intoxicating mix of natural beauty, original Buddhist
culture and French influences.
Laos' lifeline is the Mekong River, which
flows the length of the mountainous, landlocked country and
provides water for agricultural lands. It's also a major means of
transportation. The unassuming capital, Vientiane, sits on its
banks, giving travellers a comfortable introduction to Laos'
charms. But most visitors would regard Luang Prabang as the
destination's highlight. Among other things, they delight in the
district's architectural blend of whitewashed houses and splendid
golden temples.
Regarding its history, Laos has suffered
French colonisation, internal conflicts and assertive communism,
all of which isolated it from the outside world. Today, visitors
can enjoy the country's old-fashioned ways. Tourists willing to
brave the lack of infrastructure will discover charming towns and
rural villages, splendid scenery and a slow, relaxed pace of
life.
Key Facts
Language:
Lao is the official language, but some English and French
are spoken.
Passport/Visa:
Most foreign passengers to Laos can obtain a visa on arrival,
provided that: (i) they are arriving at one of the following
airports: Vientiane International, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Warray;
(ii) they are holding a return/onward ticket and the necessary
travel documentation for their next destination; (iii) they have a
confirmed hotel reservation in Laos; and (iv) they are in
possession of one photograph, size 3 x 4 cm (however, it is always
recommened to travel with more than one) (v) their passport
contains at least two unused visa pages. These tourist visas are
valid for 30 days. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate
is required to enter Laos, if arriving within six days of leaving
or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly
recommended that your passport has at least six months validity
remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel
destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to
those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Currency:
The Lao Kip (LAK) is the legal currency unit. US Dollars, Euros
and Thai Baht are also accepted in many places and are more
convenient to carry than large stacks of the local currency. Banks,
hotels, and jewellery shops all offer currency exchange services.
For everyday expenses, visitors should carry a mix of US Dollars
and Kip. For larger items, or when the exchange rate is favourable,
travellers should use US dollars. For local transport, street-food
stalls and minor purchases, Kip will serve visitors better. When in
rural areas, travellers should carry a supply of small notes as
change can be hard to come by.
Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at
most international hotels, many shops and restaurants, and a few
tourist-orientated establishments in Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
In other parts of the country, visitors should assume that only
cash is accepted.
Banks are generally open Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm, and
then again from 2pm to 3pm. ATMs are available in Vientiane, Luang
Prabang, Pakse and other major towns. Travellers should note that
ATMs distribute only Lao Kip, with a maximum of around 1,000,000
Kip per transaction.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of
plugs are used, including the European-style two-pin, the UK-style
three-pin, and the flat two-pin type.
Travel to Laos
Overview
Laos' lush landscape and serene temples are
a feast for the senses and a balm for restlessness. Visitors can
expect to press pause, reset and dissolve their cares in the
company of solemn monks and friendly lay-people.
Vientiane and Luang Prabang are the most
popular stops for tourists, though the entire country has retained
a gentle grace within Southeast Asia's frenzy of development.
Pristine waterfalls, caves of Buddhist statues and ornate stupas,
along with a meadow full of ancient, mysterious stone jars are all
part of the experience.
Climate in Laos
Laos has a tropical climate, with year-round high temperatures
and two distinct seasons. The wet season runs from May to October,
and the dry season lasts from November to April. During the wet
season, the topography of mountainous Laos means there is the risk
of landslides. Temperatures are lower during the wet season,
averaging 73°F (23°C), with August being the wettest month. The dry
season has two distinct periods: the cool dry period from November
to February and the hot dry season from March to April. Dry season
temperatures average at 82°F (28°C), and the hottest month is
April. Between March and May, Laos experiences a very hot season,
with day-time temperatures reaching 104°F (40°C).
The best time to visit Laos is between November and March, when
it is dry and temperatures are pleasant. However, this is high
tourist season and accommodation prices may be higher than they are
at other times of the year. For visitors travelling on a budget, it
may actually be better to brave the wet season.
Health Notes when travelling to Laos
Travellers planning to visit Laos should
seek medical advice about vaccinations and endemic diseases at
least three weeks prior to departure. With the exception of
Vientiane, malaria exists throughout the country while typhoid and
cholera occur in some areas. A typhoid vaccine is recommended for
all travellers, except short-term visitors who will restrict their
meals to hotels and major restaurants.
Other risks include hepatitis E, plague,
dengue fever and Schistosomiasis if swimming in the Mekong River.
Travellers' diarrhoea is a problem for many visitors. The best
policy would be to only drink bottled water and avoid dairy
products, uncooked meat and fish, salads and unpeeled fruit.
Medical care in Vientiane is extremely
basic, and even then there are no reliable facilities to deal with
medical emergencies outside the capital. As medical evacuation is
difficult to organise and very expensive, travellers are advised to
take out comprehensive medical insurance. Visitors who have an
unstable medical condition should consider avoiding Laos. A yellow
fever certificate is required from anyone entering from an infected
area.
Safety Notes when travelling to Laos
Most visits to Laos are trouble-free, though crimes such as
robbery are on the increase. Passport theft is a problem and
travellers are advised to take care, avoid carrying large sums of
money and keep valuables and documents in a safe place.
Making copies of important travel documents is also a good idea.
Travel in some rural parts of Laos is dangerous because of banditry
and unexploded ordnance, and visitors should never stray from
well-worn footpaths. Visitors should also note that an ID document
or passport should be carried at all times and should be presented
on demand or else a heavy fine could be imposed.
Visitors to Vang Vieng are advised to be particularly vigilant
of their belongings, and aware of their personal security as there
have been reports of petty theft in the area. Staying at a
trustworthy and secure hotel or guesthouse while in Vang Vieng is
recommended.
Although Laos is known for its laid-back and friendly
atmosphere, the travel risk is somewhat increased by the lack of
travel infrastructure and medical facilities.
Customs in Laos
Skimpy or revealing clothes are generally
not acceptable, especially in places of worship. Public displays of
affection are taboo in Lao society. The Laos government prohibits
any sexual contact or relationships between Lao nationals and
foreigners, unless married under Lao law; penalties may involve
heavy fines or imprisonment. It's illegal not to carry an identity
document. Photographing military sites is prohibited.
Duty Free in Laos
Travellers to Laos do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or
50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 2 litres of wine and 1 litre of
spirits; and 50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette.
Doing Business in Laos
Laos' hot, tropical climate demands that
business people typically wear lightweight suits, usually with a
tie. Visitors should also bear in mind that the country is
generally rather conservative and should act accordingly. Business
cards should be given and received using both hands and should be
treated with respect.
Handshakes are common, though the
traditional greeting is the nop. It is similar to the Indian
namaste, where palms are placed together as if in prayer and held
in front of the chest or face. Surnames usually come before first
names, which can be confusing for visitors. French is more widely
spoken and understood than English, though translators are
available. Business hours are usually from 8am to 12pm and 1pm to
4pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Laos
The international access code for Laos is +856. The outgoing
code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the
United States). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)21 for
Vientiane and (0)71 for Luang Prabang. International Direct Dial is
available in the major towns, but the service is expensive and
inefficient. Hotels sometimes add a hefty surcharge to their
telephone bills, so guests should check before making long-distance
calls. As mobile phones will only work in the major cities, and
local mobile phone companies have few active roaming agreements
with other network operators, travellers are advised to check their
coverage with their service provider before visiting Laos.
Tipping in Laos
Tipping is becoming more widely practiced in tourist hotels and
restaurants, where 10 percent is expected. Elsewhere, there is no
need to tip. Many of the more up-market restaurants tend to include
a 10 to 15 percent service charge in their bill.
Passport/Visa Note
Most foreign passengers to Laos can obtain a visa on arrival,
provided that: (i) they are arriving at one of the following
airports: Vientiane International, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Warray;
(ii) they are holding a return/onward ticket and the necessary
travel documentation for their next destination; (iii) they have a
confirmed hotel reservation in Laos; and (iv) they are in
possession of one photograph, size 3 x 4 cm (however, it is always
recommened to travel with more than one) (v) their passport
contains at least two unused visa pages. These tourist visas are
valid for 30 days. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate
is required to enter Laos, if arriving within six days of leaving
or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly
recommended that your passport has at least six months validity
remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel
destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to
those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six
months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is
required, and can be obtained for a maximum stay of 30 days if
possessing a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos, one passport
photo, two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the
next destination.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of
30 days if holding a hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo,
two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the next
destination.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least
six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is
required, and can be obtained for a maximum stay of 30 days on
arrival if holding a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos, one
passport photo, and all required documents for the next
destination.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of
30 days if holding an address in Laos, one passport photo, two
unused visa pages, and all required documents for the next
destination.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least
six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is
required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of up
to 30 days if holding a hotel reservation in Laos, one passport
photo, and all required documents for the next destination.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of
up to 30 days if holding a hotel reservation in Laos, one passport
photo, two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the
next destination.
Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at
least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa
is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of
up to 30 days if holding a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos, one
passport photo, and all required documents for the next
destination.
Tourist Offices
National Tourism Authority of Laos: http://www.tourismlaos.org
Laos Embassies
In the United States:
Laos Embassy, Washington DC, United States (also responsible for
Canada): +1 202 332 6416.
In the United Kingdom:
Laos Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7402 3770.
In Australia:
Laos Embassy, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New
Zealand): +61 2 6286 4595.
Foreign Embassies in Laos
American Embassy
American Embassy, Vientiane: +856 21 487 000.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian Embassy, Vientiane, Laos: +856 21 35 38 34.
British Embassy
British Embassy, Vientiane, Laos: +856 30 77 00 000.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Laos. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Laos and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Laos or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Laos.
When traveling in Laos, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Laos, see malaria in Laos.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Laos, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Laos
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Laos. The government of Laos requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in Laos. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
You may need this vaccine if your trip will last more than a month, depending on where you are going in Laos and what time of year you are traveling. You should also consider this vaccine if you plan to visit rural areas in Laos or will be spending a lot of time outdoors, even for trips shorter than a month. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Laos.
When traveling in Laos, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in Laos, see malaria in Laos.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Laos, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to Laos
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in Laos. The government of Laos requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Note: Zika is a risk in Laos. Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Therefore, pregnant women should not travel to Laos. Partners of pregnant women and couples planning pregnancy should know the possible risks to pregnancy and take preventive steps (more information).
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Laos, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Laos. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in Laos include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Laos. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Laos’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in some parts of Laos. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Laos may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in Laos, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Laos for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in Laos. Learn how to protect yourself.
Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions
UpdatedLunar New YearDecember 06, 2017The Year of the Dog begins on February 16, 2018, and many people will travel to Asia to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Destinations include Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Mauritius, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
The Lao Kip (LAK) is the legal currency unit. US Dollars, Euros
and Thai Baht are also accepted in many places and are more
convenient to carry than large stacks of the local currency. Banks,
hotels, and jewellery shops all offer currency exchange services.
For everyday expenses, visitors should carry a mix of US Dollars
and Kip. For larger items, or when the exchange rate is favourable,
travellers should use US dollars. For local transport, street-food
stalls and minor purchases, Kip will serve visitors better. When in
rural areas, travellers should carry a supply of small notes as
change can be hard to come by.
Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at
most international hotels, many shops and restaurants, and a few
tourist-orientated establishments in Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
In other parts of the country, visitors should assume that only
cash is accepted.
Banks are generally open Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm, and
then again from 2pm to 3pm. ATMs are available in Vientiane, Luang
Prabang, Pakse and other major towns. Travellers should note that
ATMs distribute only Lao Kip, with a maximum of around 1,000,000
Kip per transaction.
Vientiane International (VTE) Wattay International Airport
Location: Vientiane The airport is six miles (10km) from
Vientiane.
Time: Local time is GMT +7
Transfer between terminals:
The terminals are within easy walking distance of each
other.
Getting to the city:
Taxis and tuk-tuks are available outside both terminals. Many
local hotels offer free shuttle transfers for guests by prior
arrangement.
Car rental:
Avis by Asia Vehicle Rental and Sixt are represented at the
airport. However, visitors are advised not to hire a car. Instead,
they should book a car with a driver through their hotel or travel
agent.
Airport Taxis:
Taxi counters are located near the exit of each terminal;
passengers must buy a taxi coupon before leaving the airport.
Facilities:
Facilities at the airport include banks, bars, restaurants,
duty-free shopping, a post office and a couple of shops.
Parking:
Parking is available at the airport.
Overview of the Attractions in Laos
Laos' lush landscape and serene temples are
a feast for the senses and a balm for restlessness. Visitors can
expect to press pause, reset and dissolve their cares in the
company of solemn monks and friendly lay-people.
Vientiane and Luang Prabang are the most
popular stops for tourists, though the entire country has retained
a gentle grace within Southeast Asia's frenzy of development.
Pristine waterfalls, caves of Buddhist statues and ornate stupas,
along with a meadow full of ancient, mysterious stone jars are all
part of the experience.
That Luang Stupa Vientiane
That Luang Stupa is a symbol of Buddhism
and Lao rule, and is the country's most important religious
building. The golden temple and its spire are visible from afar,
proving an unforgettable welcoming sight for travellers. King
Setthathirath built the shrine in 1566 and his statue stands in
front of the temple, where the setting sun enhances the beauty of
its already stunning golden surface. The central stupa is deeply
symbolic: resembling a curved lotus bud, its three tiers represent
different aspects of Buddhism. More specifically, the base deals
with hell, the middle revolves around 30 Buddhist teachings and the
top tier is about heaven. Visitors should explore the area with a
local guide, who can explain the site's significance. They will
also need to dress modestly, covering their knees and shoulders.
Women can borrow traditional Lao skirts at the entrance.
Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) Vientiane
The site known as Buddha Park is an
otherworldly collection of Buddhist and Hindu statues scattered
around a riverside meadow. Priest, myth-maker and sculptor, Luang
Pu designed and built the park in 1958, fusing philosophy with
mythology and iconography. Visitors will discover that the detail
on many of the statues is decidedly atypical of Laos. Indeed, much
of it is quite unique. Visitors are sure to enjoy climbing and
exploring the structures and should look out for tourist pleasers
such as the beautiful Tree of Life sculpture and a pumpkin-like
statue. The latter's steps lie inside its gaping mouth and lead to
a viewing platform.
Address: Thanon Tha Deua, Vientiane, Laos
Royal Palace (Haw Kham) Luang Prabang
The former Royal Palace is a mixture of
French and Lao architecture. It preserves the monarchy's
possessions and has an extremely opulent interior, with the Throne
Room being the most impressive. A three-headed elephant sheltered
by the sacred white parasol sits above the entrance, and is the
symbol of Laos' monarchy. The dazzling interior comprises mirrors,
mosaics and displays of royal regalia that include glittering
swords and the former King's elephant saddle. The Pha Bang
(delicate Buddha) is the museum's most prized item, housed in a
small, barred shrine that was the King's personal sanctum. Believed
to have been crafted in the heavens, it is the country's most
sacred image and spiritual protector.
Wat Xieng Thong (Golden City Temple) Luang Prabang
Situated at the tip of Luang Prabang's
peninsula, the Golden City Temple (Wat Xieng Thong) is the
country's most enchanting monastery and perhaps its most
talked-about tourist attraction. Its grandest feature may be the
graceful, sweeping tiled roof of its main temple, though the
stencilled gold designs on its walls are marvellous too. At the
rear, visitors will find a splendid coloured-glass mosaic
illustrating the 'tree of life'. The compound garden's peaceful
atmosphere features several shelters, which house rare Buddha
images and the gilded royal funerary carriage. If tourists can only
explore one of the country's monasteries, it should be Wat Xieng
Thong. Evenings see the light reflect beautifully off the glass and
gold of the walls, while the monks are called into prayer by
drums.
Plain of Jars (Phonsavan) Luang Prabang
Located in the Xieng Khouang Plateau of
Northern Laos, the mysterious Plain of Jars is an unusual sight and
a must-see attraction. Visitors will find hundreds of huge stone
jars scattered about the landscape, some weighing as much as six
tonnes and measuring around six feet in length. They're believed to
be over 2,000 years old, though their origin and original function
remain unknown. One story claims they were made to ferment rice
wine to celebrate a victorious battle against a wicked chieftain in
the 6th century. Others see them as sarcophagi or funerary urns.
The jars are clustered into 90 groups, with Thong Hai Hin being the
largest and most easily accessible site. Only Sites 1, 2 and 3 are
open to visitors, as unexploded mines from the war lie around the
other locations.
Pak Ou Caves Luang Prabang
The Pak Ou Caves lie about two hours from
Luang Prabang and are only accessible via a scenic boat trip. The
lower and upper caves contain an impressive collection of mostly
wooden Buddha statues, which locals and pilgrims have assembled
over the centuries. Hundreds of pilgrims journey to the caves every
year, adding new statues to the gallery. The collection contains
some unusual specimens, many of which are hard to reach. Visitors
will need a flashlight to climb the stairs leading to the upper
cave. The lower cave is visible from the river. Photos are
permitted and visitors often light candles as tributes.
Kuang Si Falls Luang Prabang
Tourists frequently rate the multi-tiered
Kuang Si Falls as the top attraction in Luang Prabang. The serene
location sees turquoise-green water tumble over a series of
limestone terraces and collect in lovely pools, all of which are
surrounded by lush greenery. Walkways lead around the base and to
the summit, and visitors will find many places to picnic. The
swimming is glorious, with rocks, branches and rope swings
providing fun ways to enter the water. Given their natural
splendour, it's no surprise that the falls get crowded. Travellers
should visit as early as possible to fully appreciate the location
and take good photographs. The falls are about 18 miles (29km)
south of Luang Prabang.
Si Phan Don Vientiane
The famous 4,000 Islands region of Laos
unfolds at the Mekong River's tail end. Situated in the far south
and lapping over into Cambodia, the area is renowned for its
tranquil village life, spectacular waterfalls and unspoiled natural
beauty. It's also home to the rare pink Irrawaddy Dolphin. The two
most popular islands are Don Khong, which is the largest and most
developed in the region, and backpacker magnet Don Det. Prices for
food and accommodation are some of the cheapest in Asia. Many
tourists use the area as an entry point into Cambodia, with buses
frequently making the one-hour journey to the border. Action lovers
can look forward to plenty of hiking, biking and swimming
opportunities, while relaxation seekers can enjoy bungalows with
waterside balconies. Water safaris are a great way to see the
dolphins, though travellers should ask guides not to go too
far.
Phou Si Luang Prabang
Phou Si is a hill near the confluence of
the Khan and Mekong rivers, home to several caves, Buddha images
and spectacular views of Luang Prabang. Visitors will find the
city's oldest temples on the lower slopes, but the area's most
prized structure is the golden stupa of That Chomsi. It has become
a symbol of Luang Prabang's spiritual significance to Laos.
Travellers reach the stupa by climbing 300 steps and passing
various temples and shady trees along the way. Some of the most
interesting Buddha statues can be found via the back entrance.
Climbing up one way and down the other would allow visitors to
appreciate all the hill's sights and views, with some travellers
visiting the night market, which they'll find in front of the Old
Palace at the foot of Phou Si.
Victory Gate (Patuxai) Vientiane
Modelled to mirror the Arc de Triomphe in
Paris, Laos' Victory Gate is definitely a sight to behold. Indeed,
Laotians decided to one-up their former colonial masters by
building theirs slightly higher and with four gates instead of two.
Patuxai also has a number of decorative Buddhist ornamentations. As
a matter of fact, the Royal Laotian Government constructed the
monument with American funds and cement that were intended to build
an airport, earning it the nickname, 'vertical runway'. Seven
flights of stairs or a lift lead to the top, which offers great
views of downtown Vientiane. The area is also home to the World
Peace Gong presented to Laos by Indonesia, and a musical
fountain.
COPE Visitor Centre Vientiane
The COPE Visitor Centre can be a sobering
reality-check for many tourists. Statistically, Laos is the world's
most bombed country: the US military considered it unsafe for
planes to land with unused ordinance so they dropped their bombs
over Laos. Many are unaware of this tragic and embarrassing aspect
of the Vietnam War. Laos still has a significant amount of
unexploded ordnance (UXOs), particularly in rural areas along the
border with Vietnam. The COPE Visitor Centre does vital work in
educating the public and tourists. It also provides help for those
who have lost limbs or loved ones to bombs. Anybody planning to
travel off the beaten track in Laos should know how to recognise
and react to UXOs.
Address: Boulevard Khou Vieng, Vientiane, Laos
Website: http://copelaos.org/
Houey Hong Vocational Training Center for Women Vientiane
The Houey Hong Vocational Training Center
for Woman has been among the most popular tourist attractions in
Laos. The centre provides training and education to Lao women from
disadvantaged backgrounds, teaching them skills such as natural
dyeing, traditional Lao weaving, tailoring and small business
administration. Visitors are not just casual observers and instead
partake in half-day or full-day courses of their choice, and are
taught skills ranging from tie-dyeing silks to traditional Lao
weaving with a loom.
Address: Lane 22, Houey Hong Village, Chantabury District,
Vientiane
Website: http://www.houeyhongvientiane.com
Ho Phra Kaew Vientiane
Opening time: Daily: 8am to 12pm; 1pm to 4pm.
Ho Phra Kaew is one of Vientiane's oldest
and most grandiose temples, with its interesting history shedding
light on Laos' past relations with Thailand. More specifically,
King Setthathirath built the temple in 1565 for the express purpose
of housing the Emerald Buddha, which he had pilfered from Chiang
Mai City in Northern Thailand. Made of gold and green jadeite, the
statue was recaptured by the Siamese army in 1778 and returned to
Bangkok. Even without the Emerald Buddha, Ho Phra Kaew should
easily make the bucket list of anyone interested in the region.
This national monument exposes visitors to Laos' varied cultural
heritage, its displays including a heavily lacquered 16th-century
door carved with Hindu images and a collection of stonecut figures
representing Khmer deities.
Address: Rue Setthathirath, Vientiane
Talat Sao (Morning Market) Vientiane
Vientiane's Talat Sao (Morning Market) has
two decidedly different sections. Depending on their budget and the
type of experience they're looking for, visitors can choose between
the shopping mall and the original Morning Market. The mall has a
range of shops and services over five floors, and its
air-conditioning provides a much appreciated break from the
country's tropical heat. Shoppers will find a food court, a cinema,
a supermarket and a children's play area in the complex. The
bustling market operates from early morning to mid-afternoon, and
is a labyrinth of clean, tiled alleyways. Hand-woven fabrics,
silver jewellery and other local handicrafts are favourite
purchases. Bargaining is expected and generally good-natured, so
tourists should remember to smile while trying to beat down a
price.
Luang Prabang Alms Ceremony
The morning Alms Ceremony is one of the
main attractions in Luang Prabang. Male Laotians study Buddhism in
the district for at least a year of their lives, keeping the city
full of boys and men dressed in saffron-coloured robes. Visitors
will not soon forget the ancient and ritualised ceremony. It takes
place every morning and sees monks proceed through the village
along the main street, where they collect alms to consume during
the day ahead. Otherwise, visitors should remember that the
ceremony is a serious event. Onlookers should be respectful at all
times, particularly if taking pictures. It's also extremely rude to
touch a monk, more so for women than men.
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