Laos is a beautiful country located in SouthEast Asia and bordering Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and South of China. There are around 7 million Laotians living in the beautiful country. Laos has a rich culture, with its own unique history. As a traveller Laos is a must visit if you are interested in visiting ASEAN countries.
Where is Laos Situated
Lasos is about 236,800 square kilometers in size, and located China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the southeast, Thailand to the west and southwest and Myanmar (Burma) to the northwest. Laos is a country characterized by its predominantly mountainous terrain and dense forests, which cover much of its landscape. The Mekong River, one of the region’s most significant waterways, runs along a substantial portion of Laos’s western border, serving as a natural boundary with Thailand. This geographical feature not only defines the country’s western edge but also plays a vital role in the lives of the people and the ecosystem of the region.
Where to Stay in Laos
Laos has many nature rich areas which you can visit such as Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Luang Namtha, Nong Khiaw, Si Phan Don, Pakse, Plain of Jars and Champasak. Out of these cities Vientiane and Luang Prabang holds a special place with tourists. If you are planning on staying only for a week or less, Vientiane and Luang Prabang are the perfect place to anchor and roam around the country.
Things to do in Vientiane
Vientiane, the charming capital of Laos, offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Here’s a simple list of things to do, along with a brief description of each:
- Visit Pha That Luang
- A stunning golden stupa and one of Laos’s most important national monuments. It symbolizes both Buddhism and Lao sovereignty.
- Explore Patuxai (Victory Gate)
- Known as the “Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane,” this war monument offers panoramic views of the city from its top.
- Stroll Along the Mekong Riverside
- A peaceful area perfect for walking, cycling, or enjoying the sunset. The riverside is lined with cafes, restaurants, and night markets.
- Discover Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
- A unique sculpture park filled with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, located just outside the city.
- Tour Wat Si Saket
- The oldest temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of Buddha images and serene atmosphere.
- Shop at Talat Sao (Morning Market)
- A bustling market where you can find everything from traditional Lao textiles to handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Learn at COPE Visitor Centre
- A museum dedicated to educating visitors about the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos and the efforts to support affected communities.
- Relax at Nam Phou Fountain
- A popular square in the city center, surrounded by cafes and restaurants, perfect for a quick break or people-watching.
- Visit Wat Ho Phra Keo
- A former temple turned museum, showcasing beautiful Lao art and religious artifacts.
- Take a Day Trip to Vang Vieng
- Just a few hours from Vientiane, this scenic town is famous for its limestone karsts, caves, and outdoor activities like kayaking and tubing.
Things to do in Luang Prabang
- Watch the Alms Giving Ceremony (Tak Bat)
- Witness the daily dawn ritual where monks collect alms from locals and visitors. It’s a spiritual and cultural experience unique to Luang Prabang.
- Explore Mount Phousi
- Climb this hill in the center of town for panoramic views of Luang Prabang, the Mekong River, and the surrounding mountains.
- Visit Kuang Si Waterfalls
- A breathtaking multi-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools, perfect for swimming and picnicking. Don’t miss the nearby bear rescue center.
- Tour the Royal Palace Museum
- Learn about Laos’s royal history and admire the beautiful architecture and artifacts in this former royal residence.
- Discover Wat Xieng Thong
- One of the most iconic temples in Laos, known for its intricate mosaics, golden stenciling, and traditional Lao design.
- Stroll Through the Night Market
- A vibrant market offering handmade crafts, textiles, and local street food. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs.
- Take a Boat Trip on the Mekong River
- Enjoy a peaceful cruise along the Mekong, with options to visit nearby caves, villages, or the Pak Ou Caves filled with Buddha statues.
- Visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre (TAEC)
- A small museum showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions of Laos’s ethnic groups.
- Relax at Wat Mai Suwannaphumaham
- A beautiful temple with a golden facade and intricate carvings, located near the night market.
- Explore the Pak Ou Caves
- Located north of Luang Prabang, these caves are filled with thousands of Buddha statues and offer a glimpse into local spiritual practices.
- Cycle Around the Town
- Rent a bicycle and explore Luang Prabang’s charming streets, temples, and riverside at your own pace.
- Visit the Living Land Farm
- A community-based project where you can learn about traditional Lao farming practices and even try your hand at planting rice.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine
- Try Lao dishes like laap (minced meat salad), tam mak hoong (spicy papaya salad), and khao soi (noodle soup) at local restaurants or street stalls.
- Relax at the Red Cross Sauna and Massage
- Unwind with a traditional herbal sauna and massage, all while supporting a good cause.
Few additional tips before going to Laos
As much as Laos is rich in nature, culture and beautiful souls, there are some things you should be aware of before travelling.
1. Airport Immigration Scams
It was reported by many tourists that some officers have been trying to bribe tourists for different reasons. Especially if you are travelling with a weak passport. In personal experience, when we travelled from Myanmar to Luang Prabang directly they didn’t allow us to enter the country (at first) saying that we have to have a travel agent booked in Laos to enter. Or else as a last resort they asked us to change our plan, and exit the country through the same airport (Luang Prabang) instead of exiting the country through Vientiane. Since we booked our flights from Air Asia, we were unable to do that and we patiently explained the circumstances to the officer. Then this officer said after around 3 hours keeping us that the officer himself will take us to the hotel. Which sounded very suspicious but we didn’t have many options. Then during the drive, he started mentioning how difficult it is to live in Laos with his salary and he said all about him struggling. We had to offer him money after he dropped us at the hotel, and it was a few dollars, but it was a bit more than it cost for a cab for the same trip. But we felt, all the drama they put us through was to ask for money directly which we didn’t offer in the first place.
Also there were some tourists who were ask to keep $400 as a deposit with the immigration and which will be given on the day you depart. But all this happened only at Luang Prabang air port and it is advised to always enter via Vientiane which is the main airport in Laos.
2. Long Boat Tours
Scammers may pressure you to book overpriced accommodations for overnight stops. Avoid by checking availability and prices at the destination yourself.
3. Drivers or Guides Not Delivering
Some guides may skip promised stops. Agree on the route in advance and consider paying in stages to ensure they complete the trip.
4. Not Getting Change
Sellers may withhold or shortchange you. Always count your change and be mindful of high-value currency notes.
5. Boats and Buses
Tours may promise comfortable transport but provide old, overcrowded vehicles. Inspect the transport before paying or read reviews online.
6. Tuk-Tuk Tour Scams
Cheap tuk-tuk tours often include stops where drivers earn commissions. Avoid by booking through reputable companies or being prepared to spend at stops.
7. Children as Bait
Kids may sell items or offer help, but the money often goes to adults. Politely decline if you’re uncomfortable, and avoid encouraging begging
