Laos

INTRODUCING LAOS

After years of war and isolation, Southeast Asia’s most pristine environment, intact cultures and quite possibly the most chilled-out people on earth mean destination Laos is fast earning cult status among travellers. It is developing quickly but still has much of the tradition that has sadly disappeared elsewhere in the region. Village life is refreshingly simple and even in Vientiane it’s hard to believe this sort of languid riverfront life exists in a national capital. Then, of course, there is the historic royal city of Luang Prabang, where watching as hundreds of saffron-robed monks move silently among centuries-old monasteries is as romantic a scene as you’ll experience anywhere in Asia.

The Lao wilderness is drawing travellers looking for nature, adventure or both. Kayaking, rafting, rock-climbing and biking are all available, but it’s the community-based trekking that is most popular because it combines spectacular natural attractions with the chance to experience the ‘real Laos’ with a village homestay – while spending your money where it’s needed most.

BEFORE YOU GO

VISA INFORMATION

Citizens of the US, Australia, UK, EU Countries, New Zealand and Canada must possess a visa to visit Laos. All other nationalities should check with the Laotian embassy or consulate in their home country. Travelers can easily obtain a 30 day tourist visa upon arrival in Laos, at the airports in Vientiane, Pakse or Luang Prabang, or at most overland border crossings.

The cost of a Lao visa varies according to nationality and is 35 USD for holders of USA and UK passports, 30 USD for holders of Australian and New Zealand passports, and 42 USD for holders of Canadian passports. All travelers require USD cash to pay for their visa, and a passport photo must be provided. On weekends and public vacations an extra 1 USD is charged per visa.

Please note Laotian visa requirements are subject to change and it is your responsibility to research your visa requirements prior to travel. We strongly suggest that you check with the relevant embassies in your country of residence for current visa regulations.

CLIMATE & TIMES TO VISIT

It is possible to enjoy a visit to Laos at any of time year. From May to October it is the wet season, with occasional showers that don’t usually impact travel plans. Overland travel in some remote parts of Laos may not be possible, and the mountainous regions are cooler than the warm lowlands. There are fewer visitors to Laos during this period making it a favorable time to go. From November to February temperatures in the north of Laos can be quite cool in the evenings.

EVENTS

1 January is a public vacation celebrating New Year’s Day
8 March is International Women’s Day
13-15 April is Buddhist New Year
1 May is International Labor Day
August/September – A Boat Racing Festival
12 October is Liberation Day
Mid-October – A Boat Racing Festival
November (first full moon) – The That Luang Festival
2 December is National Day
24 December to 3 January is the International New Year period

OUR LAOS FEATURED PRODUCTS

Laos Tours

Famous for its relaxed atmosphere, the country never fails to deliver guests unique experiences and unexpected moments of discovery with every visit. As yet to be frequented trails are being researched and developed, the tourist map is expanding and the opportunity for experiential travel becomes ever greater in this compelling destination. Lao’s responsible tourism ethos continues to lead the way in the region as the eco-tourism concept and development of sustainable practices gains ground.

Laos Accommodation

Captivating Laos offers something for everyone when it comes to accommodation. Our selected hotels include former colonial houses which have been painstakingly restored in to boutique hotels and remote eco lodges where you are more likely to be awoken by a rooster than an alarm clock. Soak in the tranquility and explore the exotic Laos countryside from one of our selected hotels.

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