Laos
Laos, is unlike any of its surrounding neighbours, there is no smoggy metropolis swarmed with aggressively people trying to sell you things and rip you off. Laos is probably Southeast Asia's most relaxing country to travel in. Laotians are rather laid back and unassuming, however they are also extremely conservative.
Fast facts about Laos:
Capital: Vientiane
Official Language: Lao
Currency: 1$CAD = 8,170LAK (Kip)
Population: 6.5 million
Time: GMT + 7hours
Official Language: Lao
Currency: 1$CAD = 8,170LAK (Kip)
Population: 6.5 million
Time: GMT + 7hours
Click on a photo to learn more about Laos:
Kouang Si Waterfalls,
Luang Prebang,
Laos.
Luang Prebang,
Laos.
The Kouang Si falls are known for its turquoise-green pools. The multi-tiered waterfall are located roughly 30km outside of Luang Prebang.
Interesting things to know about Laos.
Getting there & away:
Getting to and from Laos is actually quite difficult. Flights in and out of the country are rather expensive as there is only 1 airline (Lao airlines) that flies into the country. Other options include taking a speed boat along the Mekong River and though it only takes a few hours it is rather dangerous. The final option is taking a 2 day boat trip down the Mekong, the safest and most affordable route.
ATMs:
These can actually be quite hard to find, and even when you do, they may not be working. It is wise to purchase Kip before entering the country.
Visas:
It is necessary to get a Visa to enter Laos. These can be purchased at the border, but come prepared with a passport sized photo and roughly 30-40$USD to pay for it.
Dress:
Laotions are quite conservative and as a result dress quite modestly. It is respectful to cover up slightly. It is also polite to remove your shoes before entering any shops, homes or guesthouses.
Getting to and from Laos is actually quite difficult. Flights in and out of the country are rather expensive as there is only 1 airline (Lao airlines) that flies into the country. Other options include taking a speed boat along the Mekong River and though it only takes a few hours it is rather dangerous. The final option is taking a 2 day boat trip down the Mekong, the safest and most affordable route.
ATMs:
These can actually be quite hard to find, and even when you do, they may not be working. It is wise to purchase Kip before entering the country.
Visas:
It is necessary to get a Visa to enter Laos. These can be purchased at the border, but come prepared with a passport sized photo and roughly 30-40$USD to pay for it.
Dress:
Laotions are quite conservative and as a result dress quite modestly. It is respectful to cover up slightly. It is also polite to remove your shoes before entering any shops, homes or guesthouses.
Useful phrases:
Hello = Sabaa-dii
Thank you = Kap Jai la lai
How much = Thao dai
Thank you = Kap Jai la lai
How much = Thao dai
Time Magazine:
Time magazine recently write an article about a hot new destination for young travelers the location, Vang Vieng, Laos.
Click here to read the article: "Next Time You're In Laos"
Click here to read the article: "Next Time You're In Laos"
