Laos Trip Adviser | Laos Travel

VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE 
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Cath a tuk-tuk down its tree-lined boulevards or amble the newly developed river-front and you will see that Vientiane is on the up. Never before has the city enjoyed such a renaissance of style, with a proliferation of chic spas, bakeries and chichi bars blossoming at every turn; not to mention a global spectrum of restaurants catering to every palate. Add to this a vast choice of accommodation ranging from cosy guesthouse to boutique hotels and you will understand why many travelers are charmed by the place. 
The French settled the city as a hub of Indochina, and elements of their era, be it the whiff of fresh-baked baguettes or evocative shuttered villas, are easy to find; indeed the style of "Indo-chic" is everywhere. Start your day at one of a number of great bakeries, take a massage, browse the city's tasteful boutiques or wander the labyrinthine streets and markets of this surprisingly compact and friendly city. 
 
History 
Vientiane was first settled as an early Lao fiefdom. Through 10 centuries of history it was variously controlled, ravaged and looted by the Vietnamese, Burmese, Siamese and Khmer. When laos became a French protectorate at the end of the 19th century, it was renamed as the capital, was rebuilt and became one of the classic Indochinese cities, along with Phnom Penh and  Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). By the early 1960s and the onset of the war in Vietnam, the city was teeming with CIA agents, madcap Ravens (maverick US Special Ops pilots) and Russian spies. 
In 2009 the city hosted the Southeast Asian Games, a major illustration of the country's new profile. And while the newly constructed train line from Thailand to within a few klicks of Laos is still largely useless, China's Kunming to Vientiane express route. 
 
Sights 
The three main streets parallel to the Mekong - Th Fa Ngum, Th Setthathirat and Th Samsenthai - are the central inner city of Vientiane and, conveniently, where most of the sights, guesthouses, hotels, restaurants and bars are located. 
 
Pha That Luang 
Svelte and golden Pha Tha Luang is the most important national monument in Laos; a symbol of Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty. Legend has it that Ashokan missionaries from India erected a tâth (stupa) here to enclose a piece of Buddha's breastbone as early as the third century BC. 
A high-walled cloister with tiny windows surrounds the 45m-high stupa. The cloister measures 85m on each side and contains various Buddhas images. Pha That Luang is about 4km northeast of the city center at the end of Th That Luang. 
 
Wat Si Saket and Haw Pha kaew 
Built in 1818 by King Aouvong (Chao Anou), Wat Si Saket is the oldest temple in Vientiane and well worth a visit even if you have overdosed on temples. Wat Si Saket has several unique features. 
The interior walls of the cloister are riddled with niches containing more than 2000 silver and ceramic Buddha images. More than 300 seated and standing Buddhas of varying age, size and material (Ston, wood and bronze) rest on long shelves below the niches. A Khmer-style Naga Buddha is also on display. 
 
 
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VIENTIANE

VIENTIANE Cath a tuk-tuk down its tree-lined boulevards or amble the newly developed river-front and you will see that Vientiane is on the...

Getting around Laos

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Getting around Laos 
Air:  
Lao Airlines (QV) (www.laoairlines.com) runs domestic air services from Vientiane to Xieng Khouang, Luang Prabang, Huay Xai and Oudomxai  in the north and Pakse and Savannakhet in the south. The airline is based at Wattay airport. All domestic flight times are around an hour. Private charter flights are also available through Lao Westcoast Helicopter (www.laowestcoast.com). 
 
Air notes: 
The domestic terminal is next door to the Wattay International Airport. 
 
Departure tax:  
Usually included in the ticket price. 
 
Road:  
If you are on a strict timescale, it is advisable to prearrange travel outside Vientiane with a tour company to avoid unforeseen delays and costs. 
 
Side of road:  Right 
 
Road quality:  
Many of the roads have been paved in recent years, including the main highway from the Thai border at Savannakhet to the Vietnamese border. However, few main roads are suitable for all-weather or night driving. 
 
In the north of the country, there is a road link between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and from Vientiane to Savannakhet and Pakse in the south. 
 
Road classification:  
Roads in Laos have been classified into several categories - national road, provincial road, district road, urban road, rural road and special road. 
 
Car hire:  
Unless you are an experienced driver, it’s not recommended to hire cars in Laos as driving standards are not up to international levels and there are few rules. However, if you are capable, it is an excellent way to get off the beaten track and to explore. Try Europcar (www.europcarlaos.com) for reliable rentals or advice. A safer option is to hire cars with a driver through hotels or tourist agencies. 
 
Taxi:  
The word ‘tuk-tuk’ is used to describe a large variety of lightweight vehicles, generally with three wheels. While there is a tuk-tuk organization in Vientiane that is supposed to control the prices that tourists pay between destinations, the rates remain negotiable. Decide on the fare before getting in. A songthaew (meaning ‘two rows’ in Thai) is a pick-up truck, with two benches, a roof and open sides, these operate both as local buses and taxis. 
 
Bike:  
Laos has plenty of quiet roads that lend themselves to cycling. It is a growing industry and there are now several local operators offering guided cycling throughout the country. There are good maps available and cycling is one of the best ways to come into contact with local people. 
 
Most motorcycles are either Honda Baja or scooters. Japanese made bikes will serve you better if you’re going off the beaten track, especially if heading to mountainous areas. Rental shops exist in Vientiane only. Helmets are mandatory and the local police are keen on checking motorcycle licences, so make sure you have one or be prepared to pay a heavy fine. 
 
Coach:  
Privately run, air-conditioned VIP coaches make the journey between tourist centres whereas slower, more basic, local buses cover a far wider range of destinations. Note the toilet stops are often far and few between, and breakdowns/tyre changes are the norm rather than an exception. 
 
Regulations:  
There are very few road regulations in general within Laos. 
 
Breakdown service:  
Non-existent, it will be a case of asking around the village or town to see if there is a mechanic available. 
 
Documentation:  
International Driving Permit recommended. 
 
By road note:  
If you are on a strict timescale, it is advisable to pre-arrange travel outside Vientiane with a tour company to avoid unforeseen delays and costs. 
 
Getting around towns and cities:  
All major towns are small and accessible on foot or by bicycle. Motorcycles and bicycles can be hired for the day in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and other places frequented by tourists. There is a mixture of old and metered taxis in Vientiane that can usually be located at Wattay Airport, the Friendship Bridge and the Morning market. Taxis can also be hired for approximately US$20 per day. 
 
Rail:  
Other than the new international train between Thailand and Laos there are no other railway lines in the country. 
 
By water:  
The Mekong and other rivers are still a vital part of the country's transport system – especially during the monsoon - despite the road system being gradually improved. However, the number of boats available has decreased dramatically. The choice is between irregular (and very basic) slow ferries and exciting but noisy and hazardous speedboats. A service runs from Luang Prabang to Huay Xai, but there is no longer a service between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, except for the rare cargo boat that may take passengers. 
 
The journey upstream from Luang Prabang to Houay Xai takes two days, with an overnight stop in Pakbeng, and downstream it takes one day. There are regular jet-boat trips along the river, run by Lao River Exploration Services (www.jetboat.laopdr.com). Boats can also be hired privately. Many of the remaining services only run in the wet season, when the Mekong floods and becomes more navigable. Huay Xai (the border to Thailand in the northwest) to Luang Prabang and travel south of Pakse are the main routes still in use. 
 
By water note:  
It’s not advisable to take speedboats - these are poorly maintained, insubstantial crafts, customized canoes at best, that are capable of fast speeds due to their powerful motors. These boats literally skid across the water and if they come into contact with a large wave or debris along the way they are likely to crumble into the water. There are regular accidents and fatalities.</div>

Getting around Laos

Getting around Laos Air: Lao Airlines (QV) (www.laoairlines.com) runs domestic air services from Vientiane to Xieng Khouang, Luang Praba...

Food and Drink in laos

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Laos Food and Drink 
Dishes are a blend of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese in flavour and presentation but Lao food lacks the variety that many of the cuisines from surrounding countries offer. The cheapest and easiest way to sample Lao food is from the stalls in the markets - as long as the food is fresh and hot it will be safe to eat. Traditionally, Lao food is very spicy – Lao people will often add chillies by the fistful and use heavy seasoning - but this kick is often tempered for the western palate. Fish sauce is often used to flavour dishes. 
 
There are several fairly good French restaurants in Vientiane, catering mainly for the diplomatic community, and Luang Prabang, which has recently seen something of a culinary revival. In touristy areas the usual traveller fare will be available, so expect to see menus offering muesli, chow mien, pizza, burgers, sandwiches, curries, pancakes and fritters. Green tea, is usually served weak and free in most restaurants, water tends to be filtered and providing it is, it will be safe to drink. 
 
Specialities:  
• Sticky rice (best eaten with fingers, simply roll it up to the size of a golf ball and pop in your mouth). 
• Pho (white rice noodle soup, usually served with beef and/or pork although vegetarian versions are available). This is the typical food of Laos. If it’s a little plain Lao people will add in fish sauce, dried chillies etc to give it a kick. 
• Laap (minced meat, fish or vegetables tossed in lime juice, garlic, onions, powdered rice and chillies, accompanied by sticky rice). 
• Tam maal hung (Lao-style spicy salad of shredded papaya with lots of chilli, garlic, lime, fish sauce and palm sugar.). 
• Khai phaan (weed from the Mekong River - a Luang Prabang speciality). 
 
Things to know:  
Lao breakfast is generally rice noodles. If noodles and meaty broth is not your thing for breakfast, French baguettes with sweet Lao coffee and khai (eggs) is possible in most places that cater to tourists, as are the ubiquitous traveller pancakes, cornflakes and takes on western cooked breakfasts. Eating out, unless at the very top restaurants, is very good value. Cappucinos and lattes are increasingly available and are often made with pasteurised milk that has travelled from Thailand. 
 
Tipping:  
Tipping is not typical in South East Asia generally. However, tourism has introduced the practice and now restaurant and café owners are savvy to this. It is not so much expected in Laos but anything you do leave for the staff, who’s salaries are likely to be very low, will be appreciated. If you’d like to leave a tip for good food or service, 10-12% would be a good guideline. 
 
Regional drinks:  
Lao lao (rice whisky) is popular and there are two brands available. 
Beer Lao is very popular. 
 
Drinking age:  18.</div>

Food and Drink in laos

Laos Food and Drink Dishes are a blend of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese in flavour and presentation but Lao food lacks the variety that man...

Shopping and nightlife in laos

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Laos Shopping and nightlife 
 
Shopping in Laos 
The markets in Vientiane and Luang Prabang are worth visiting. Silk, cotton fabrics, wood carvings, pottery, silver jewellery and handmade shirts are good buys. Lao sarongs (pha sin) and hill tribe bags are a popular souvenir. Although the majority of shops have fixed prices, bartering is still advisable for many items. 
 
In Vientiane, it’s worth heading out to the weaving district of Ban Nong Bouathong, northeast of the city. Try the Phaeng Mai Gallery which sells beautiful Lao textiles. For something really smart, head to the American designer Carol Cassidy’s shop, Lao Textiles, which is well-known internationally. Here, you’ll find items that will fit in well at parties back home as well as on your travels. Lao weavers design the items and work in an attractive old French-Lao house. If buying clothes in Laos note that most fabrics are not machine washable as the dye runs. Nearby, opposite Talat Sao market, is the clumsily named Handicraft Products of Ethnic Groups- here you’ll find handicrafts from all across the family. 
 
Luang Prabang is best known for its handicrafts, art, textiles and jewelry. In an old French mansion, Pathana Boupha Antique House is certainly worth a visit. There’s some beautiful silverwork and old photos for sale, mostly from the Lao owners’ private collection. It’s brilliant for browsing and for choosing an inspired, unusual gift. There are also plenty of small bookshops. L’Etranger Books & Tea is a lovely place to cool off or curl up with a book in. It sells both new and second-hand books mainly about Laos and Southeast Asi but head upstairs to the tea lounge and you can see local art displayed too. 
 
Another great spot to combine retail with tea is the Baan Khily Gallery, which sells Lao crafts and mulberry bark paper (sǎa). The friendly owner is often on-site and there’s an upstairs terrace which lends itself to chill-out time. 
 
Shopping hours:  
Times vary but generally Mon-Sat 0800-1700 with private shops open longer hours. Some also open on Sunday. 
 
Nightlife in Laos 
 
It is illegal for a nightclub or bar to stay open later than 2330 and therefore to expect Vientiane to be on a par with other Asian capitals in terms of nightlife would be a misstep. Generally, the Lao nightlife is quiet and laid-back, usually involving a Beer Lao, a stunning sunset firefly display and an early night. However, there are two nightclubs of note in Vientiane – Future Nightclub and Highwayman are both are fairly close to the airport and both often stay open later than they should. 
 
Otherwise try the French Cultural Centre on Th Lan Xang in Vientiane which often shows movies, and has music performances. Elsewhere in the capital, there are plenty of bars along the river, most of which stay open until 2300 or so – expect plenty of classic rock, cocktails and cheap beer. In Luang Prabang it’s the same story, although the city has the country’s first openly gay bar – Khob Chai. Note that the streets empty out early in Laos and stumbling home drunk might not be a wise idea. Guesthouses close and bolt their doors accordingly too, so try not to get locked out.</div>

Shopping and nightlife in laos

Laos Shopping and nightlife Shopping in Laos The markets in Vientiane and Luang Prabang are worth visiting. Silk, cotton fabrics, wood c...

What to see and do in laos

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Laos things to see and do 
 
Tourist offices 
Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) 
PO Box 3556, Lane Xang Avenue , Hadsady, Laos, Laos 
Tel: (21) 212 251/248. 
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1600. 
www.ecotourismlaos.com 
 
Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) 
PO Box 3556, Lane Xang Avenue , Hadsady, Laos, Laos 
Tel: (21) 212 251/248. 
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1600. 
www.tourismlaos.gov.la 
Things to see and do 
 
Boloven Plateau 
Head to the Boloven Plateau in Champassak province for elephant riding and trekking. Pakse, home to many ethnic minority groups, is the region's capital and the ideal base from which to explore the plateau. 
 
Climb Mount Phousi 
Ascend Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of Luang Prabang and the surrounding rivers and hills. 
 
Cruise the Mekong 
Meandering along the Mekong River from Pakse on a converted teak barge (www.vatphou.com) is an idyllic way to see the country. Spend two nights on board, visiting Wat Phu, temples and traditional villages. 
 
Dolphin watching 
Head south to the supremely laid-back Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), an archipelago on the Mekong River, to see the spectacular Khone Phapheng (the largest waterfall in South-East Asia (by volume)) and the endangered irrawaddy dolphins. 
 
Learn to cook 
If you enjoy the flavours and textures of Lao food, spend a day learning to cook traditional Lao dishes. Courses in Vientiane and Luang Prabang include a visit to the local market to purchase meat and vegetables for the dish you are to prepare. 
 
Luang Prabang 
Visit Laos' cultural and religious centre, Luang Prabang. This ancient royal city has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995. Located between the Mekong and Khan River, it boasts 33 large temple complexes and around 1,000 resident monks. 
 
Monks 
In the early morning pay a visit to the Morning Market in Vientiane where you will see lines of saffron-clad monks silently collecting alms from the local traders. 
 
Pak Ou Caves 
Do not miss the fascinating Pak Ou Caves. The two caves, Tham Ting and Tham Phun, are full of Buddha images that have been left there over hundreds of years by worshippers. They are easily reached by speedboat from Luang Prabang. 
 
Plain of Jars 
Marvel at the mysterious Plain of Jars, near Phonsavan. Hundreds of stone jars, some weighing up to 6 tonnes, are scattered over the landscape. Legend says they were used to ferment rice wine in the sixth century to celebrate a victory in battle. 
 
Ride an elephant 
Trek through the jungle on the back of an elephant to Tad Sae waterfall near Luang Prabang. 
 
Swimming 
Swim in the lower pools of the Kuang Si Waterfalls, situated 30km (19 miles) from Luang Prabang, and bathe in the two hot springs some 52km (32 miles) north of Phonsavan: Bo Noi and Bo Yai. 
 
Temple tours 
Check out the old French colonial architecture and numerous Buddhist wats and stupas in Vientiane, one of Asia's most relaxed and quiet capital cities, suitably nestled in fertile plains on the banks of the Mekong River. 
 
Traditional weaving 
Drop in on a traditional community in Ban Phanom, near Luang Prabang. The village is famous for its weavings and offers the opportunity to purchase bargain-priced silk and embroideries. 
 
Trekking 
Head to the hills and trek independently or as part of a locally organised tour. A number of guest houses offer hiking trips starting from Muang Xing, a small town on the river plains in the mountainous Luang Namtha province in the far northwest. 
 
Tubing 
Lazily float along the Nam Song River in a rubber tube in Vang Vieng. The scenery is stunning and enterprising locals will tow the thirsty in to riverside bars for Beer Lao. Many of the bars have zip lines and water slides. Note there is an increasingly dark side to this activity – several backpackers have had severe accidents and a few have been killed - beer, tubing and drugs do not mix. Young local men, in their attempts to make money, have also resorted to dealing drugs to foreigners and have become addicted themselves causing many problems in the local community. 
 
Wat Phu 
Admire the breathtaking views across the Mekong Valley from the Wat Phu temple, constructed on a mountain top near fresh spring water by the Khmer Hindus, who went on to settle their empire at its former capital - Angkor Wat (Cambodia). 
 
Wat Xieng Thong 
Be awed by Wat Xieng Thong, one of Laos' most impressive temples. Decorated with coloured glass and gold, it is testament to the fact that Luang Prabang had been the royal capital until 1975. The royal palace itself contains fine artwork and gifts made for former kings.</div>

What to see and do in laos

Laos things to see and do Tourist offices Lao National Tourism Administration (LNTA) PO Box 3556, Lane Xang Avenue , Hadsady, Laos, Lao...

Money and banking in laos

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Money & duty free for Laos 
 
Currency information:  
Lao Kip (LAK; symbol ₭) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of ₭50,000, 20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Most transactions are conducted in cash; American Dollars, Thai Baht or Lao Kip (LAK). 
 
Credit cards:  
Major credit cards are accepted in the more upmarket hotels and restaurants only in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Several banks will also offer a cash advance on credit cards for a commission. 
 
ATM:  
Nowadays most ATMs are reliable. However there is a limit on how much you can withdraw during a day, and currently the withdrawal limit per day is set at approximately 1,000,000 LAK, roughly £65. Vientiane has the biggest selection of ATMs in the county, especially around Th Setthathriat. Major hotels are likely to have an ATM on-site too. 
 
The domestic economy in Laos still depends on the Thai baht and the US dollar; pounds and euros, less so. In fact, two-thirds of the cash in the capital Vientiane, is Thai or American. Although only kip is legally negotiable in everyday transactions, it’s worth remembering that for small purchases and transactions, prices will be quoted in kip, larger transactions, i.e for hotels or transport, it’s likely the price will be quoted in dollars. This is relevant for whereabouts you are too - in larger cities Thai baht or US dollars are more in use, whereas in smaller towns and villages, kip is usually preferred. In spite of relative current stability, the kip is not yet a stable currency. 
 
Travellers cheques:  
Limited acceptance and often with a hefty commission charge – available at most banks in Vientiane. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Thai Baht. 
 
Banking hours:  
Mon-Fri 0830-1600. Some banks remain open during lunch. 
 
Currency restriction:  
The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import and export of foreign currency is unrestricted, subject to declaration of amounts more than US$2000 on arrival. 
 
Currency exchange:  
Thai Baht, US Dollars, Euros and the British Pound are the easiest currencies to exchange. They are also widely accepted in shops, markets and hotels in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. 
 
Laos duty free 
The following goods may be imported into Laos by travellers aged 16 and over without incurring customs duty: 
 
• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. 
• 1L of spirits and 2L of wine. 
• 50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette. 
• Goods up to the value of US$50. 
 
You must declare any antique items purchased in other countries. 
 
Banned imports:  
Prohibited and restricted goods include products affecting national security and stability or public health, narcotics, wildlife, endangered species, and historical artefacts. 
 
Banned exports:  
Any antiques of great historical value. You should check with the Ministry of Information and Culture before exporting cultural artefacts.</div>

Money and banking in laos

Money & duty free for Laos Currency information: Lao Kip (LAK; symbol ₭) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of ₭50,000, 20,00...

Laos health care

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Laos Health Care and Vaccinations 
 
Leave plenty of time before travelling to contact your GP – 2 months is best - to check whether you need any vaccinations or other preventive measures. If you are unfortunate enough to fall sick or are in real need of medical attention it is best to travel to Vientiane where there are several reputable medical clinics. Any treatment must generally be paid for in cash. In Laos if you need emergency medical assistance, dial 195 (ambulance Ministry of Public Health) or 030 525 7239 (ambulance centre) to request an ambulance. 
 
In urgent cases, repatriation to Thailand – especially for serious injuries and illnesses – is best. There you will find excellent healthcare at Bangkok Hospital, which specifically caters to medical tourists, or Phyathai Hospitals Group which has translators for 22 languages as well as a team of English-speaking staff. The hospitals in Bangkok are some of the best in the world, usually meeting or exceeding US standards. Udon Thani and Chiang Mai are closer, depending on your location in Laos and both have clinics better than you’ll find in Laos. Bear in mind that evacuation is complicated to organise and is very expensive. 
 
If in doubt, a helpful concierge at one of the better hotels will probably be a good source of information as would most embassies in an emergency situation – note that there is no British consular representation in Laos – the closest is in Bangkok. Urgent consular assistance to British nationals is provided by the Australian Embassy in Vientiane. 
 
Exercise caution when buying medicines from pharmacies in Laos, unfortunately, as with many developing countries in Asia, counterfeit drugs are very common. There are few if any laws preventing such trade and Laos is somewhat of a dumping ground for phony, replica goods – whether household items or medicines. Lastly, health insurance is essential and should include cover for air evacuation. 
 
Food and drink:  
All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled. 
 
Other risks:  
Hepatitis E occurs and hepatitis B is highly endemic. Dengue fever, tuberculosis and Japanese encephalitis occur. Avoid swimming in fresh water as schistsomiasis and leptospirosis are present. Other than the capital – which is malaria-free but not dengue fever-free - assume that malaria is present everywhere in Laos – before leaving home check with your health clinic regarding which precautions to take as there are drug-resistant parasites around Laos. Bring DEET-laced insect repellent of at least 25% strength and sleep with a mosquito net and fan. Generally speaking - the mosquitoes that are active during daytime may be carrying dengue and those that are active at dawn and dusk, malaria.</div>

Laos health care

Laos Health Care and Vaccinations Leave plenty of time before travelling to contact your GP – 2 months is best - to check whether you nee...

visa and passport in laos

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Laos Visa and Passport Requirements 
 
Passports:  
To enter Laos, a passport valid for at least six months is required by all nationals referred to in the chart above. Travellers have been refused entry into Laos when holding passports with fewer than six months’ validity. 
 
You may not always be required to show a return ticket if you are travelling overland. However, it is wise to procure an itinerary from a travel agent to avoid problems. 
 
Visas:  
Nationals referred to in the table above can obtain a 30-day visa on arrival at road and river border crossings and ports of entry into Laos. Bring two passport-size photographs with you for the visa. 
 
You can also apply for visas in advance from embassies. 
 
Multiple-entry visas are only available from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Laos. 
 
Be sure to get an entry stamp on arrival, and an exit stamp upon leaving – double-check the date stamps. 
 
Visa note:  
Nationals not referred to in the chart are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements for Laos. 
 
Types and cost:  
A visa on arrival costs approximately US$35, depending on your nationality. If you obtain a visa in advance, it costs around US$50, but again this varies according to nationality. 
 
Validity: 
Visas are usually valid for 30 days. If you obtain a visa in advance from the embassy, it's generally valid for a 30-day stay within two months of issue. 
 
Application to:  
Consulate (or consular section at embassy), or an officially recognised tour operator. You can also obtain visas from the Laos Embassy in Bangkok or from numerous travel agents on the Khao San Road in Bangkok. If you are in the UK you can apply to the Laos Embassy in Paris. 
 
Sufficient funds:  
It’s unlikely that you will be asked to provide proof, but just in case bring your last few bank statements, tax returns or salary slips. 
 
Extension of stay:  
You can extend your 30-day tourist visa up to an additional 60 days for a fee of US$2 per day through the Department of Immigration in Vientiane,. If you overstay you’ll have to pay US$10 a day on exit for every day over. 
 
Entry with children:  
Adults travelling alone with children should be aware that they may be required to produce documentary evidence of parental responsibility before entering the country. Bring paperwork just in case. 
 
Entry with pets:  
Laos requires a veterinary certificate for entry. 
 
Embassies and tourist offices 
 
Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in the USA 
Telephone: (202) 332 6416. 
Website: http://www.laoembassy.com 
Opening times: Mon-Fri 0900-1630.</div>

visa and passport in laos

Laos Visa and Passport Requirements Passports: To enter Laos, a passport valid for at least six months is required by all nationals ref...

Hotels in Laos

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Where to stay in Laos 
Hotels:  
There are good hotels in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane, but facilities are basic elsewhere with just a few exceptions. Local village hostels are available, but with few amenities, these are not really geared towards western tourists. One thing to bear in mind is the peak and low season periods. High season, which is from October to January means more booked-out hotels and higher prices. By contrast low-season - any date that falls outside of January to February – means more room for bargaining and less visitors. One especially impressive new opening is La Folie Lodge (www.lafolie-laos.com), a property owned by a French count, located on Don Daeng, an isolated island in the Mekong River in southern Laos. Ideal for a look at rural Laotian life and for enjoying perfect isolation in luxury. 
 
Nowadays Laos has several five-star options and some fantastic boutique options. Luang Prabang has the highest concentration mainly due its UNESCO-listed setting and elegant colonial buildings. The Aman and Orient Express chains have hotels in Laos and several independent boutiques have opened, many of which are perfect for honeymooners and upscale visitors, offering world-class cuisine, cultural programmes and service of the highest standards. 
 
Bed and breakfast:  
Guesthouses are common in areas frequented by tourists in Laos. There have been budget guesthouses for several years in traveller hubs, and mid-level range guesthouses are now mushrooming across the country. Lao guesthouses are often very busy during festivals – especially during the busy period of December to February and Lao New Year. The trick, as ever, is to book ahead. 
 
Camping:  
Organised tent camping is available in Phou Khao Khouay National Protected Area and through major tour operators in Vang Vieng. Wild camping is also possible with your own gear, although for safety reasons this is obviously better done in a group. Simple bamboo forest camps are also a possibility. The Nam Ha Forest Camp in Luang Namtha's Nam Ha National Protected Area is a good option. There is also combination of rafting and camping expeditions available in Luang Prabang province. Additionally, Xe Pian National Protected Area offers short camping programmes from Kiet Ngong Village. 
 
Other accommodation:  
Laos is eager to promote ecotourism and visitors can stay in specially constructed eco-lodges available around the country. These include lodges in Laopako, around 50km (31 miles) from Vientiane on the Nam Ngum River, the Boat Landing Guest House (www.theboatlanding.laopdr.com) in Luang Namtha province, the Kingfisher Lodge (www.kingfisherecolodge.com) in Champassak province and Kamu Lodge (www.kamulodge.com) a tented lodge upstream from Luang Prabang. For more information contact Ecotourism Laos (www.ecotourismlaos.com), part of the Lao National Tourism Authority. Several lodges have opened right on the river too which gives you the chance to explore river life and more rural settings. 
 
Home stays are a relatively new phenomenon in Laos, but are an excellent way of immersing yourself in their way of life. By staying with a family you’ll quickly gain an appreciation for the challenges Lao people face, the work people engage in, the rural way of life and the feeling of family and community in the village - essentially what Laos is built on as a rural society.</div>

Hotels in Laos

Where to stay in Laos Hotels: There are good hotels in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane, but facilities are basic elsewhere with ...