LAOS TRAVEL GUIDE

Laos has a rich history stretching back 10,000 years. At its height, it ruled over present day Laos and much of neighbouring northern Thailand. Landlocked and laid-back, it’s a unique spin on the Southeast Asia experience.

Here Buddhism permeates every facet of life, change comes slowly, and cities bed down early. The perfect place to break from office politics ...

ause in a hyperactive travel agenda, this land of mountain, mists and untamed natural beauty tempts with unrivalled peace and serenity.

Open your heart, open your mind, and let the genuine faith and generous hospitality of Laos replenish your soul.

 

North of Laos
Luang Prabang

 

Central of Laos

Vientiane
Phonsavan

 

South of Laos

Pakse
Champasak

 

Province and town summaries:
Laos is divided into 17 provinces and one prefecture, which include the capital city Vientiane. Provinces are further divided into districts and then villages. A village is essentially a town. Landlocked Laos has a relatively small population approaching 7 million, with the capital Vientiane approaching 1 million. Must see places in Laos are the picturesque Luang Prabang and the mysterious Plane of Jars.

 

Accommodation:
While one of the less developed tourist destinations in SE Asia, Laos is able to offer a complete range of accommodation from budget hotels to 5-star luxury hotels. What Laos lacks in beaches it makes up for in scenery, and Travel Loop Adventure will match available hotels to your needs and wallet.

 

Food and drink:
Lao cuisine is very similar to its Thai and Vietnamese neighbour’s culinary offerings. Spicy soup, sticky rice and a range of meat-based side dishes make up a meal, shared by all at the table.

Vientiane is serviced by several good French restaurants, a remnant of the country's colonial era. This heritage also means baguettes and croissants are still widely available. Major cities, such as Luang Prabang, offer restaurants to suit almost any palate, although the selection dwindles quickly as you embark on roads less travelled.

 

Health:
Medical care in Laos is generally poor; p

arts of Laos are very remote and medical care limited. If you plan on going on a road trip or doing some serious outdoor sports, travel insurance should be considered compulsory. Laos is not a dangerous country, but its infrastructure for medical care is underdeveloped, so remember to have fun, but don’t forget where you are. As per the other less-developed SE Asian destinations, Head to Thailand for anything serious.

There are some things you can do that are just common sense.

• Cover up from the sun either like the locals with clothing, or high factor sunscreen, and wear a hat.
• Rehydrate as much as possible during the day.
• Mosquito repellents are also recommended if you are prone to being bitten.
• Small cuts and abrasions (especially on feet and legs) are very easily infected in Vietnam and so careful first aid is a must. Keep everything scrupulously clean and bring antiseptic cream.

LAOS TRAVEL GUIDE

LUANG PRABANG
VIENTIANE TRAVEL GUIDE
PHONSAVAN TRAVEL GUIDE
PAKSE TRAVEL GUIDE
CHAMPASAK TRAVEL GUIDE