Laos Travel Guide

Laos is one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Caught in the middle of the two Indochina wars and long isolated from the rest of the world, the country retains a slow, rather old-fashioned charm, and its people – incredibly laidback and friendly, even by Asian standards – are undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit. Laos is fast becoming the darling of South-east Asia, satisfying all the romantic images of perfumed frangipani trees, saffron-robed monks, rusty old bicycles and golden temples, all set amongst a rich tapestry of tropical river islands, ethnic minority villages, cascading waterfalls and vivid, green rice paddies, and bound together by the mighty Mekong River, the country’s lifeline.

As the perennially ignored Southeast Asian destination, Laos is in pole position to surprise most any traveler to the region with its many attractions, from isolated beaches to wildlife-filled forests. In Laos you'll discover a virginal landscape, wats alive with orange robed monks, peaceful riverside villages and friendly people. Tranquil, green and completely refreshing, Laos is one of Asia's best-kept secrets.  Nowhere is this unhurried atmosphere more apparent than in the former royal capital, Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city displaying ancient temples alive with monks as well as beautiful colonial architecture. Vientiane is perhaps Southeast Asia's calmest capital, despite bearing evidence of a tumultuous history.

Spend the morning viewing temples and the afternoon sipping a cool Beer lao before watching the sunset over the Mekong. Laos' varied landscapes include the flat plains of the remote Bolovens Plateau, the Khone Phapheng Falls, the mysterious Plain of Jars and the dense forests of the north. Admire some of the best French architecture from the colonial days. Laos has every thing you need and more.