Laos
What you need to know before you go
Laos is a mountainous country with a rich history that stretches back 10,000 years. With Buddhism as its main religion, there are hundreds of Buddhist monasteries, temples and stupas in just about every city in Laos, with the most popular ones scattered across Luang Prabang.
This Southeast Asian country also attracts travelers looking to take it slow and enjoy a relaxing view of mountains and untamed natural beauty. If you’re an adventurer at heart, Laos’ lush jungles are home to miles of scenic trails, underground river caves, and waterfalls. A vacation in Laos is always full of surprises, spirituality, generous hospitality, and of course, breathtaking photo opportunities.
Top destinations in Laos
Where will you go next?Vientiane, located on the north-eastern bank of the Mekong, serves as the capital of Laos. It has a relaxing atmosphere you won’t find in many capitals across the world – many travelers enjoy a relaxing riverside break with a cold beer and sunset views over the Mekong. Vientiane also has a diverse range of hotels, restaurants, and cafes, some of...
Read moreLuang Prabang
The ancient town of Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Laos. Located 700 meters above sea level...
Houayxay
The capital of Bokeo province, Houayxay (Huay Xai) lies on the Mekong River opposite Chiang Khong in Thailand. Featuring a...Luang Namtha
Luang Namtha lies on the banks of the Nam Tha River, in the northern part of Laos. It’s also the...Phonsavan
Phonsavan serves as the capital of Xieng Khouang Province in northeast Laos. Founded in the 1970s, the town has a...Pakse
Pakse is a city located between the rivers Xe Don and the Mekong in southern Laos. It was founded by...Vang Vieng
Many travelers are drawn to Vang Vieng’s natural landscape of limestone cliffs and paddy fields. This small town lies on...
What to see & do in Laos
Featured stories & fun stuffLaos attractions are mostly pristine temples, monasteries and stupas, as Buddhism is the country’s dominant religion. Some of the best places for temple-hopping in Laos is Vientiane and UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang. You can even enjoy a picnic with views over 200 Buddhist sculptures at a local park in Laos’ capital. Destinations such as Savannakhet, Bokeo, and Champasak boast natural protected areas that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. These national... Read more
10 Best Things to Do in Laos
The best things to do in Laos combine stunning mountainous landscapes with ancient cultural attractions. It's fair to say that this landlocked country is one of the few truly exotic travel destinations left in the world. Laos has a 'back...14 Best Things to Do in Vientiane
Vientiane is known for its laidback atmosphere and it's true that life moves slowly here, attracting those who enjoy a...19 Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang
Our list of things to do in Luang Prabang highlights the UNESCO-listed town’s natural and manmade attractions. Often described...Safety in Laos
This guide on safety in Laos isn’t meant to put you off from traveling to this unique country, but it’s...How to Get to Laos
There are several ways to get to Laos, though the easiest way is by flight. Airports in Vientiane, Luang Prabang...7 Best Things to Do in Savannakhet
One of the best things to do in Savannakhet is exploring its historic sights on foot. Buddhist temples, museums, and...
Where & what to eat in Laos
Laos restaurants tend to be local spots serving typical rice and noodle dishes, as well as French restaurants that offer baguettes and pastries. The local cuisine is similar to Thai and Vietnamese, with sticky rice, fresh herbs, and larb (spicy marinated meat salad) commonly served in most restaurants. When traveling to Laos (and just about any foreign destination), having an open mind will serve you well. Street food is available... Read more
10 Great Laotian Dishes
Laotian dishes are very similar to Thailand and Vietnam in terms of flavor and ingredients, which often consist of fresh herb, spices, noodles, and rice. Khao niaw (sticky rice) is a staple food among the Laotians. Traditionally steamed in a...14 Great Restaurants in Vientiane
Restaurants in Vientiane include classy French and European venues, quaint cafes, and evening markets with dozens of food stalls in...15 Great Restaurants in Luang Prabang
Restaurants in Luang Prabang cover a wide range of regional cuisine, from authentic Laotian dishes to modern French. Some of...
Where to shop & what to buy in Laos
10 Best Shopping in Vientiane
Some of the best places to go shopping in Vientiane include its traditional markets where you can experience the local lifestyle, shop for authentic souvenirs, and sample delicious Lao dishes. Rows of vendors set up shop along the Mekong River...5 Great Things to Buy in Laos
There are plenty of things to buy in Laos, especially if you’re looking for quality handicrafts produced by the country’s...12 Best Places to Go Shopping in Luang Prabang
Some of the best places to go shopping in Luang Prabang are located in the town center, where you can...
Where to go & what to do at night in Laos
Laos nightlife has had quite a paradoxical character – from the extremes of the opium culture that infiltrated the country during the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, to the present-day midnight curfew (which means all bars in Laos tend to close around 11pm). Laos found its equilibrium as the ‘sleepy town’ of Southeast Asia, but it’s also known for Beerlao – a range of beers produced by Vientiane’s Lao Brewery Company... Read more
9 Best Nightlife in Vientiane
The best nightlife in Vientiane shows that it has evolved from a sleepy little Mekong fishing town to a city lined with riverfront restaurants, cozy bars, and vibrant nightclubs playing modern tunes. The Laotian capital’s nightlife scene is more of...6 Best Nightlife Experiences in Luang Prabang
Nightlife in Luang Prabang can be rather enjoyable if you know where to go. While the town lacks in loud and packed nightclubs that would often stay open until 3am, there are decent bars and night-time activities you can...
Useful information
Our Laos information section consists of basic knowledge and tips you need to know when traveling to this Southeast Asian city. The culture here is quite conservative, so dressing appropriately is a must especially if you’re visiting a temple in Laos. Most major hotels in Laos have English-speaking staff, though Lao and Thai are commonly spoken among the locals. Getting familiar with the basics of Laos will save you... Read more
People and Culture of Laos
Laos has one of the lowest population densities in Asia, with an estimated population of around 7 million people. This number belies the fact that Laos is home to 68 different ethnic groups. These groups fall into 3 altitudinal distributions...Mini Guide to Pakse
Pakse is located at the mouth of the rivers Xe Don and Mekong in southern Laos. Founded by French colonialists...Vientiane Information
Our Vientiane information page contains some helpful advice for first-time travelers to the Lao capital. Located on the banks...
