Thursday, October 13, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
About Laos
About Laos
General Information
Official Name: Laos People’s Democratic Republic
Population: 6.5 million
Capital City: Vientiane, population 750,000
People: Over 60 ethnic groups, the mains ones are Lao Lom (lowland: 50%), Lao Theungm Lao Sung and tribal Thais
Language: Lao
Currency: Kip (KN)
Time Zone: GMT +7 Hours
International Dialing Code: +856
Laos is a landlocked country of stunning natural beauty and strong spiritual traditions which remain relatively unexplored. With a population of roughly 6 million people, it is one of the least populated countries in the world. Much of the country is dominated by forested mountains, verdant valleys and broad snaking rivers which are perfect for nature lovers and those seeking the ultimate laid-back holiday.
Pre Departure Check List
- Travel Insurance
- Valid Passport (at least six months remaining) and visa (or two passport pictures as well as 20US$ for visa on arrival)
- Immunizations/Vaccinations
- Foreign currency (US$) or ATM card
- Flights tickets
- Photocopy of passport either scanned into email account or separate from the original
Travel Insurance (Compulsory)
Buffalo Tours will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, certain risks are involved and should be recognized by participants. Thus, we require all guests to purchase travel insurance prior to their trip. Travel insurance is a cost effective way of protecting yourself and your equipment in the event of problems due to cancelled trips, delays, medical emergencies, baggage loss or damage. It also gives you peace of mind for your trip.
Visa/Passports
A passport with at least six months validity is necessary. A visa is can be obtained in advance and is valid for 30 days. Otherwise you can obtain your visa on arrival; such a visa will be valid for 15 days for a cost of about 30US$. Two passport photographs should be submitted with the visa application form. In Vientiane a ‘visa on arrival’ can be extended for another 15 days at a cost of 2US$ per day. Otherwise you will be charged 10US$ per day by border authorities when you leave the country. Citizens of Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia can travel visa-free.
If coming into the country overland then we recommend booking a scheduled bus or private transfer through Buffalo Tours to avoid the increasing amount of tourist scams that through other bus and tour companies.
Arriving in Laos
We will arrange your transfer to and from the airport unless otherwise specified.
Health & Well-being
Be aware, as with other parts of South-East Asia, your health can be put at risk due to lack of effective medical treatment facilities and poor sanitation. In Laos, rural areas can have a lack of pharmacies and hospitals so be sure to have any drugs that you regularly take already with you.
Each traveler is responsible for his or her health. First and foremost make sure that you have travel insurance for your trip. Also, consult your doctor or local travel clinic before departure for the latest information on travelling to Laos.
Immunizations/Vaccinations
Before travelling to Laos, it is important to ensure that you have adequate protection about disease. About two months before your holiday you should consult you doctor who will advise as to the whether you need vaccinations before you travel. These will vary depending on where you are planning on visiting. Bear in mind that there is a malaria risk in rural parts of Laos. In general, most visitors to Laos will require the following vaccinations:
- Hepatitis A and B
- Tetanus
- Typhoid
- Polio
- Diphtheria
If you have any special conditions or allergies that may require attention overseas, have your GP write a letter describing the nature of the condition and the treatment. Always carry the letter on your person. It is also a good idea to bring your own basic medicine kit with you containing some basics like paracetamol and diarrhoea relief.
Money
The official currency is Lao Kip. Kip is non-convertible outside of Laos, so you will need to bring US Dollars to exchange. US dollars are also widely accepted in bigger cities, particularly in restaurants. Please note that torn and old US dollar notes are not generally accepted in Laos. In areas located near the Thai border, the Thai currency, Baht, is also accepted.
Visa and MasterCard are becoming more accepted in many of the bigger hotels and restaurants, especially in the larger cities. ATM’s are available in cities; in Vientiane you’ll find several ATM machines which dispense Lao Kip only.
Allow $5 to $15 per meal for additional lunches or dinners not included in the trip price. You may also want to have some money put aside to try some local foods at the markets.
Tipping is a personal matter, and passengers are encouraged to tip an amount they find appropriate. For your convenience we have included a tipping guide below; please however note that these amounts are suggestions. We encourage our passengers to reward guides based on their performance:
- Meals (restaurants): average amount is $1
- Bellboy: average amount is $1
- Chambermaid: average amount is $1 per day
- Tips for guides are completely at your discretion, but here are some guidelines: $1.50 to $3 per day per person for guides (depending on group size), $1 per day per person for drivers
Post and Telecommunications
- Telephone connections to the rest of the world are widely available, however they aren’t cheap
- Internet access is available in all major tourist places
Clothing and Suggested Packing List
- Personal clothing items, toiletries, medication
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellent
- Light weight clothing (Summer months)
- Long sleeved shirts and pants (November to February evenings as well as temple and countryside village visits)
- Depending on the season, your activities and the region you will be visiting e.g. mountainous areas, it may be advisable for you to bring a jacket with you
- Camera
- Adaptor – 220V, 50Hz; 2 pin plugs
- Water bottle and helmet (for cycling trips only)
Laos is a tolerant population and may choose not to point out improper behaviour to its foreign guests, but you should dress and act with respect when visiting Wats (pagodas) or other religious sites (including the temples of Angkor). Proper etiquette in pagodas is mostly a matter of common sense.
A few other Temple visiting tips:
- Do not wear shorts or tank tops, have your shoulders covered
- Remove your hat when entering the ground of the Wats
- Remove your shoes before going into the vihara (Sanctuary)
- If you sit down in front of the dais (the platform on which the Buddhas are placed), sit with your feet to the side rather than in the lotus position
- Never point your finger or the sole of your feet towards a person or a figure of the Buddha
Climate
Laos has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons.
May – October: Rainy season
November – April: Dry season
March – April: Hottest months - temperatures can reach as high as 38°C/100F
December: Lowest temperatures around 15°C/59F
The average temperature is between 25°C/77F and 30°C/84F
Cuisine, Special Dietary Requests and Drinking Water
Laos’ cuisine is similar to that of Thailand and offers a variety of national dishes. Like all other Buddhist countries, vegetarian food is readily available in most restaurants.
If you are a vegetarian, vegan, allergic to any foods or adhere to a special diet, please advise us prior to your trip so we can comply with your dietary requirements.
It is not advisable to drink tap water in any South East Asian countries. Bottled water is recommended but do check the expiry date before opening it. Ice is widely used in Laos and it is produced with treated water.
Cultural Differences
Experiencing cultural differences is one of the joys of travelling, and it is important that these differences are encouraged and respected. Things in Asia are done differently to the rest of the world and we ask you to please accept the differences and respect the cultural rules of the areas we travel to.
Saving Face and Manners
- Getting angry and showing it by shouting or becoming abusive is extremely impolite and a poor reflection on you. In addition, it is unlikely to achieve much.
General Points of Etiquette
- As in Thailand, it is improper to pat children on the head
- If you would like someone to come over to you, motion with your whole hand held palm down - signaling with your index finer and your palm pointed skyward may be interpreted as being sexually suggestive
- When using a toothpick, it is considered polite to hold it in one hand and to cover your open mouth with the other
- When handing things to other people, use both of your hands or your right hand only, never your left hand (reserved for toilet ablutions!)
- Public displays of affection are considered to be quite offensive in Laos – defiantly no kissing! It is also extremely rare to see couples holding hands. On the contrary it is quite common to see friends of the same sex holding hands
- It is polite to remove your shoes before entering a house – look for shoes at the front door as a clue
Donations and Gift-Giving
Although there is a great amount of poverty in certain areas of Laos, please read the following points about donations and gift-giving.
- Do not give to begging children as it reinforces for these children that begging is an acceptable to make a living. However in many places, it is considered acceptable to give to the elderly or disabled as there is no social security or other way these people can earn money.
- Giving money and goods away to random individuals can result in the local communities acting like beggars. It accentuates an unequal relationship between locals and visitors, with tourists being seen as purely ‘money givers’. We do not want to encourage the development of a society that equates every human action as potential money making scheme – for example paying to take photographs.
- Do not give sweets to children in villages that we visit. Local people do not have access to dentists, nor can they afford them and again there is the issue of turning children into beggars. Pens, toothbrushes, clothing or other ‘worthwhile’ items are best distributed via a local charity, school teacher or community leader.
- Avoid feeling that you necessarily have to give ‘material’ things. The best giving can be sometimes be shared interactions: a smile, a joke, a sing-song, dance or playing a game. Giving something of your friendship, time and interest to interact with locals can be the best gift of all.
http://www.buffalotours.com/Tours/Destinations/Laos-Tours/About-Laos/About-Laos-3237.html
Laos Country Specific Information
Laos Country Specific
Information
- Country Description
- Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)/Embassy Location
- Entry/Exit Requirements for U.S. Citizens
- Threats to Safety and Security
- Crime
- Victims of Crime
- Criminal Penalties
- Special Circumstances
- Medical Facilities and Health Information
- Medical Insurance
- Traffic Safety and Road Conditions
- Aviation Safety Oversight
- Children's Issues
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION:
The Lao People's Democratic Republic (Laos) is a poor, developing
country ruled by an authoritarian, Communist, one-party
government. Political power is centralized in
the Lao People's Revolutionary Party. Services and facilities for
tourists are
adequate in the capital, Vientiane, and the
UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang but are extremely limited in
other
parts of the country. Please read the Department
of State’s Background Notes on Laos for additional information.
SMART TRAVELER ENROLLMENT PROGRAM (STEP) / EMBASSY LOCATION:
If you are going to live in or visit Laos, please take the time to tell
our Embassy in Vientiane about your trip. If you
check in, we can keep you up to date with
important safety and security announcements. It will also help your
friends and
family get in touch with you in an emergency.
Here’s the link to the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Local embassy information is available below and at the Department of State’s list of embassies and consulates.
The U.S. Embassy is located on Rue Bartholonie (near That Dam), in Vientiane; from the U.S., mail may be addressed to U.S. Embassy Vientiane, Unit 8165, Box V, APO AP 96546; Telephone (856-21) 267-000, recorded emergency information for American citizens (856-21) 267-111; duty officer emergency cellular telephone (856-20) 5550-2016; Embassy-wide fax number (856-21) 267-190. You may also email the Embassy’s Consular Section.
ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS FOR U.S. CITIZENS:
You must have both a passport and visa to enter Laos; your passport
must also have at least six months validity remaining.
You can get a visa on arrival in Laos if you are
traveling for tourism, have two passport-size photographs and pay $35
at
the following ports of entry: Wattay Airport,
Vientiane; Pakse, Savannakhet, and Luang Prabang Airports; Friendship
Bridge,
Vientiane and Savannakhet; Nam Heuang Friendship
Bridge, Sayabouly Province; and border crossings at Boten-Mohan,
Dansavan-Lao
Bao, Houaysay-Chiang Khong, Thakhek-Nakhon
Phanom, Nong Haet-Nam Kan, Nam Phao-Kao Cheo, Veun Kham-Dong Calor and
Vangtao-Chong
Mek. You can also get a visa on arrival at the
Tha Naleng train station in Vientiane, which connects to the train
station
in Nongkhai, Thailand. If you obtain a visa from
a Lao embassy or consulate prior to your travel to Laos, you may also
enter
at the following international entry points:
Napao-Chalo, Taichang-Sophoun, Pakxan-Bungkan, and Xiengkok.
You will generally be allowed to stay in Laos
for 30 days after you arrive. If you were born in Laos, you may be
admitted
for 60 days or longer. You can extend your
30-day tourist visa up to an additional 60 days for a fee of $2 per day
through
the Department of Immigration in Vientiane. If
you overstay your visa in Laos, you risk arrest and will be fined $10
for each
day of overstay as you leave. The Lao government
requires payment of visa fees and fines in U.S. dollars. Thai baht and
Lao
kip may sometimes be accepted for the fees but
at unfavorable exchange rates. If you plan to visit Laos, additional
information
is available from the Lao National Tourism Administration.
If you wish to obtain a visa in advance, please contact a Lao embassy or consulate. In the United States, you can get visa and other information about Lao entry requirements from the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, 2222 S St. NW, Washington DC 20008, tel: 202-332-6416, fax: 202-332-4923. If you enter Laos with a visitor visa issued at a Lao embassy abroad, you will be allowed to stay in Laos for 60 days.
Business visas can only be arranged in advance; a company or individual “sponsor” must contact the Lao Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Vientiane and request a visa for you and offer a “guarantee.” Once the Lao MFA approves the request, the approval will be sent to the Lao Embassy in Washington, DC, and business travelers may then apply for the business visa. This process usually takes one to three months. After you arrive, business visas can generally be extended for one month.
Do not attempt to enter Laos without valid travel documents or outside of official ports of entry. You should not cross the border between Laos and Thailand along the Mekong River except at official immigration check crossings. If you attempt to enter Laos outside of official ports of entry, you may be arrested, detained, fined, and deported.
Immigration offices at some of the less-used land border crossing points are not well marked. Make sure you complete all immigration and customs requirements when you enter or depart Laos. If you enter Laos without completing these formalities, you may be subject to fines, detention, imprisonment, and/or deportation.
In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated additional procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship, such as the child’s birth certificate, and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.
At Wattay Airport (Vientiane), Pakse Airport, Savannakhet Airport, and the Luang Prabang Airport, there is an international airport departure tax of US$10. This tax may be included in the price of the airline ticket, depending on the carrier. There is also a 5,000 kip (equivalent to approximately U.S. 60 cents) departure tax for domestic flights, which may be included in the price of the airline ticket, depending on the carrier. At the Friendship Bridge (Vientiane, Laos - Nong Khai, Thailand border crossing) there is an overtime fee after 4:00 pm weekdays and during weekends. Visit the Embassy of Laos web site for the most current information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Laos.
Information about dual nationality or the prevention of international child abduction can be found on our web site. For further information about customs regulations, please read our Customs Information page.
SAFETY AND SECURITY:
There have been reports in the past of violent incidents carried out by
anti-government forces, including reports in 2007
of isolated clashes between Lao Government
forces and unidentified opponents in the area of Vang Vieng in northern
Vientiane
Province and in Bokeo Province. The Department
of State recommends that if you travel to or reside in Laos, exercise
caution
and be alert to your surroundings at all times.
The Lao Government security forces often stop
and check all transport on main roads, particularly at night. You must
comply
with requests to stop at checkpoints and
roadblocks. Especially if you are considering travel outside urban
centers, please
contact relevant Lao government offices, such as
Lao Immigration Police Headquarters in Vientiane, the Lao Tourist
Police,
local police and customs offices, or the U.S.
Embassy for the most current security information. To avoid trouble with
the
authorities, if you are traveling outside of
normal tourist areas or contemplating any unusual activity (including,
but not
limited to, engaging in business, extensive
photography, or scientific research of any kind), be sure to seek
advance permission
from the Village Chief, District Head,
Provincial Governor, or National Tourism Authority, as appropriate.
The large amount of unexploded ordnance (UXO) left over from the Indochina War causes more than 300 casualties per year. UXO can be found in some parts of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Saravane, Khammouane, Sekong, Champassak, Houaphan, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane Provinces. In addition, numerous mine fields are left over from the war along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Saravane). Never pick up unknown metal objects and avoid traveling off well-used roads, tracks, and paths.
You should also exercise caution in remote areas along the Lao border with Burma. Bandits, drug traffickers and other people pursuing illegal activities operate in these border areas, as do armed insurgent groups opposed to the government of Burma.
Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on facebook as well.
You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or by calling a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
Take some time before travel to improve your personal security — things are not the same everywhere as they are in the United States. Here are some useful tips for traveling safely abroad.
CRIME: Laos
generally has a low rate of violent crime, but you should remain aware
of your surroundings and exercise appropriate
security precautions. The number of thefts and
assaults in Laos has increased, and some have turned violent. Sexual
assaults
also occur in Laos. You should exercise
caution, particularly after dark, at roadside restaurants, bars and
stalls. Foreigners
are often victims of purse snatchings while
eating or while riding bicycles or motorcycles. Please be careful when
carrying
these items on your person.
Residential burglary is commonplace. Local law
enforcement responses to crimes, even violent crimes, are often limited.
Foreigners
attempting to report crimes have reported
finding police stations closed, emergency telephone numbers unanswered,
or policemen
lacking transportation or authorization to
investigate crimes that occur at night. If you move to Laos, please
contact the
U.S. Embassy Vientiane for security advice.
If you travel to Vang Vieng, be aware that some tourists have been robbed and sexually assaulted in that area. Many restaurants in the Vang Vieng area offer menu items, particularly “pizzas,” “shakes,” or “teas,” that may contain unknown substances or opiates. These products are often advertised as “happy” or “special” items. These unknown substances or opiates can be dangerous, causing serious illness or even death. Travelers in Vang Vieng have been fined and detained for purchasing, possessing, or using illegal substances. In recent years, foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have died in Laos after using illegal drugs, such as methamphetamines, opium, or heroin. The potency of some of these drugs can be several times that of similar substances found in the United States.
Please exercise caution on overnight bus trips, particularly on buses travelling to/from Vietnam. The Embassy has received reports of scams and thefts of personal belongings.
Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them, you may also be breaking local law.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you or someone you know becomes the victim of a crime abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S.
embassy or consulate (see the Department of State’s list of embassies and consulates
). If your passport is stolen we can help you replace it. For violent
crimes such as assault and rape, we can, for example,
help you find appropriate medical care, contact
family members or friends and help you get money from them if you need
it.
The local equivalent to the “911” emergency lines in Laos are 190 for fire, 191 for traffic police, and 195 for ambulance.
The Tourist Police can be reached in Vientiane at 021-251-128.
Please see our information on victims of crime, including possible victim-compensation programs in the United States.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES:
While you are traveling in Laos, you are subject to its laws even if
you are a U.S. citizen. Foreign laws and legal systems
can be vastly different than our own. In
Cambodia, you may be taken in for questioning if you don’t have your
passport with
you. It is also illegal to take pictures of
certain buildings. Please see Special Circumstances below. Driving under
the influence
could land you immediately in jail. There are
also some things that might be legal in Laos, but still illegal in the
United
States, and you can be prosecuted under U.S. law
if you buy pirated goods.Engaging in sexual conduct with children or
using
or disseminating child pornography in a foreign
country is a crime prosecutable in the United States. If you break local laws in Laos, your U.S. passport won’t help you avoid arrest or prosecution. It’s very important to know
what’s legal and what’s not where you are going.
Based on the Vienna Convention on Consular
Relations, bilateral agreements with certain countries, and customary
international
law, if you are arrested in Laos, you have the
option to request that the police, prison officials, or other
authorities alert
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate of your
arrest, and to have communications from you forwarded to the nearest
U.S. embassy
or consulate.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:
Accessibility: While in Laos,
individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation
very different from what you find in
the United States. Lao law does not mandate
accessibility to buildings or government services for persons with
disabilities.
Vientiane has some local regulations providing
building access, but these regulations are not effectively enforced.
Currently,
except for buildings and hotels that have been
built under international standards, most public places and public
transportation
are not accessible. Persons with disabilities
will face difficulties in Laos as foot paths, rest rooms, road crossings
and
tourist areas are not equipped.
Travel of Foreigners within Laos: The Lao tourist police have informed foreign tourists that a licensed Lao tour guide must accompany any group of more than five foreign tourists; however, this regulation does not appear to be strictly enforced. The authorities may restrict travel in rural areas outside of popular tourist destinations. Restricted areas may not be marked or even widely known by local citizens. If you travel without a reputable tour guide who is aware of local conditions, please talk to local authorities before entering remote areas away from obvious tourist destinations. Lao citizens who wish to have a foreign citizen -- including a family member -- stay in their home must obtain prior approval from the village chief. You may be held responsible if the Lao host has not secured prior permission for your visit. U.S. citizens are strongly advised to ensure that such permission has been granted before accepting offers to stay in Lao homes.
- Surveillance: Security personnel may at times place foreign visitors under surveillance. Hotel rooms, telephones, and fax machines may be monitored and personal possessions in hotel rooms may be searched. Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with the local authorities. Please review the section below on Photography and Other Restrictions.
- Relationship with Lao Citizens:
Lao law prohibits sexual contact between foreign citizens and Lao
nationals except when the two parties have been married
in accordance with Lao Family Law. Any
foreigner who enters into a sexual relationship with a Lao national
risks being interrogated,
detained, arrested, or fined. Lao police have
confiscated passports and imposed fines of up to $5,000 on foreigners
who enter
into unapproved sexual relationships. The Lao
party to the relationship may be jailed without trial. Foreigners are
not permitted
to invite Lao nationals of the opposite sex
to their hotel rooms; police may raid hotel rooms without notice or
consent.
If you plan to marry a Lao national, you are required by Lao law to obtain prior permission from the Lao Government. The formal application process can take as long as a year. You can obtain information about these requirements from the U.S. Embassy in Vientiane. The Lao Government will not issue a marriage certificate unless the correct procedures are followed. Any attempt to circumvent Lao regulations may result in arrest, imprisonment, a fine of $500 to $5,000 and deportation. If you cohabit with or enter into a close relationship with a Lao national, you may be accused by Lao authorities of entering into an illegal marriage and be subject to these same penalties. If you wish to become engaged to a Lao national, you must also obtain prior permission from the chief of the village where the Lao national resides. Failure to obtain prior permission can result in a fine of $500 to $5,000. Lao police may impose a large fine on a foreign citizen a few days after he or she holds an engagement ceremony with a Lao citizen based on the suspicion that the couple subsequently had sexual relations out of wedlock. - Marriage: A Lao Prime Ministerial decree requires that marriages of Lao citizens performed abroad be registered with Lao embassies in order to be legal in Laos. If you marry a Lao citizen in the United States, when you visit or return to Laos, you may be subject to penalties under the Lao law governing sexual relationships (above) if your marriage has not been registered beforehand with a Lao embassy.
- Religious Workers: Religious proselytizing or distributing religious material is strictly prohibited. If you are caught distributing religious material, you may be arrested or deported. The Government of Laos restricts the importation of religious texts and artifacts. While Lao law allows freedom of religion, the Government registers and controls all associations, including religious groups. Meetings, even in private homes, must be registered and those held outside of established locations may be broken up and the participants arrested.
- Mode of Transportation: When you travel in Laos, please consider carefully and evaluate the relative risks of the three modes of transport (see sections on Aviation Safety Oversight, Traffic Safety, and River Travel) below.
- River Travel: River travel is common in Laos, but safety conditions do not conform to U.S. standards. In particular, travel by speedboat (the local term is “fast boat”) is dangerous and should be avoided, particularly during the dry season, which generally runs from December through April. Avoid travel on or across the Mekong River along the Thai border at night. Lao militia forces have shot at boats on the Mekong after dark.
- Photography and Other Restrictions: If you photograph anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest — including bridges, airfields, military installations, government buildings or government vehicles — you may be detained or arrested, and local authorities may confiscate your camera. Be cautious when traveling near military bases and strictly observe signs delineating military base areas. Lao military personnel have detained and questioned foreigners who have unknowingly passed by unmarked military facilities. Because of the prohibition on religious proselytizing, you should avoid taking photographs or videotaping non-Buddhist religious services. If attending public services or religious gatherings, ask permission from the local police and civil authorities to photograph or videotape. Please see the section above on Religious Workers. Local police may suspect persons using any kind of sophisticated still or video camera equipment of being professional photographers or possibly photojournalists, which may lead to questioning, detention, arrest, or deportation.
- Financial Transactions: Network-connected ATMs are available in Vientiane, including those operated by the Australia and New Zealand Bank – Vientiane (ANZV) and the Foreign Commercial Bank of Laos, also known as the Banque Pour le Commerce Exterieur de Laos (BCEL). BCEL also has network-connected ATMs in Vang Vieng, and most provincial capitals, or “Muang.” These machines are generally limited to withdrawals of the equivalent of about 100 U.S. dollars in Lao kip only. Credit cards are accepted at major hotels and tourist-oriented businesses. Credit card cash advances and/or Western Union money transfers are available at banks in most provincial capitals and other tourist centers. While the government requires that prices be quoted in Lao kip, prices are often given in U.S. dollars or Thai baht, especially in tourist areas or at markets. The Lao Government requires payment in U.S. dollars for some taxes and fees, including visa fees and the airport departure tax.
- Customs/Currency Regulations: Lao customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Laos of items such as firearms, religious materials, antiquities, foreign currency, cameras and other items. Please contact the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic in Washington for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please also see section on “Religious Workers” above. Prohibitions exist against importing or exporting more than $2,500 (U.S. dollar equivalent) of currency without authorization. Contact the Lao Embassy or Lao customs authorities for more details.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION:
Medical facilities and services in Laos are limited and do not meet
Western standards. In Vientiane, U.S. citizens may wish
to contact the Primary Care Center, also known
as the Centre medical de L’Ambassade de France (CMAF), which is
supported by
the French Embassy. The CMAF is located on Khou
Vieng Road across the street from the Green Park Hotel, tel.
856-21-214-150,
or 856-20-5558-4617, or email. The Australian government also supports a clinic located at the Australian Embassy which is located Kilometer 4 on Thadeua
Road, tel. 21-353-840.
U.S. citizens in Laos often seek medical care in
Thailand. The Friendship Bridge linking Vientiane, Laos, to Nong Khai,
Thailand,
is open daily 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Officials
generally will allow travelers to cross after hours in cases of medical
emergency.
AEK International Hospital (tel: 66-42-342-555)
and North Eastern Wattana General Hospital, both in Udorn, Thailand
(tel: 66-1-833-4262),
have English-speaking staff accustomed to
dealing with foreign patients. Nong Khai Wattana Hospital in Nong Khai,
Thailand
(tel: 66-1-833-4262), can handle most simple
medical procedures. Ambulances for both AEK International Hospital and
Nong Khai
Wattana Hospital have permission to cross the
Friendship Bridge to collect patients from Vientiane. In Vientiane, the
Setthatirat
Hospital ambulance (tel: 021-413-720) can take
patients to Thailand. The Department of State assumes no responsibility
for
the professional ability or reputation of these
hospitals.
Counterfeit pharmaceuticals are a problem throughout Southeast Asia. Please be aware of this problem and purchase pharmaceuticals only through the most reputable pharmacies and with a physician’s prescription.
Avian Influenza and H1N1 Influenza: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and Lao authorities have confirmed the presence in Laos of the H5N1 strain of avian influenza, commonly known as “bird flu.” In 2007, two Lao nationals died after contracting the H5N1 virus. If you travelers to Laos or other countries affected by the virus, you should avoid poultry farms, contact with animals in live food markets and any surfaces that appear to be contaminated with feces from poultry or other animals. In addition, the CDC and WHO recommend eating only fully cooked poultry and eggs. In June 2009, the Lao government confirmed the first case of 2009-H1N1 Influenza A. The Lao government’s influenza hotline may be reached by calling 166 from anywhere in Laos. This hotline may be used to report suspected cases of influenza in animals or humans, or to obtain information on areas in Laos where influenza may have been recently detected. Operators speak Lao and English. For the most current information and links on avian influenza in Laos, see the State Department’s Pandemic Influenza Fact Sheet. For information about 2009-H1N1 Influenza, including steps you can take to stay healthy, can be found at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) web site, the U.S. Government pandemic influenza website, and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) website.
You can find good information on vaccinations and other health precautions, on the CDC website. For information about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the World Health Organization (WHO) website. The WHO website also contains additional health information for travelers, including detailed country-specific health information.
MEDICAL INSURANCE:
You can’t assume your insurance will go with you when you travel. It’s
very important to find out BEFORE you leave whether
or not your medical insurance will cover you
overseas. You need to ask your insurance company two questions:
- Does my policy apply when I’m out of the United States?
- Will it cover emergencies like a trip to a foreign hospital or a medical evacuation?
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS:
While in Laos, you may encounter road conditions that differ
significantly from those in the United States. The information
below concerning Laos is provided for general
reference only and may not be totally accurate in a particular location
or circumstance.
The number of road accidents and fatalities in
Laos has risen sharply in the last decade as the number of motor
vehicles has
increased. U.S. citizens involved in traffic
accidents have been barred from leaving Laos before paying compensation
for property
damage or injuries, regardless of who was at
fault. A driver involved in a traffic accident should remain at the
scene and
attempt to contact the police or wait for them
to arrive to prepare an accident report. If renting a car or motorcycle,
contact
the rental company and its insurance agent. If
there is major damage, injury, or death, contact the Consular Section or
the
Duty Officer at the U.S. Embassy. When renting a
car, motorcycle, or bicycle, do not give your original U.S. passport to
the
owner of the vehicle as surety against loss,
theft, or damage to the vehicle.
Traffic in Laos is chaotic, and road conditions are very rough. Few roads have lane markings. Where lane markings, road signs, and stoplights do exist, they are widely ignored. Many drivers are unlicensed, inexperienced, and uninsured. Driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs is not uncommon, and penalties for such offenses may not be enforced. Theoretically, traffic moves on the right, but vehicles use all parts of the road. Motorcyclists pay little or no heed to cars. Motorcycles carry as many as five people, greatly impeding the drivers' ability to react to traffic. The evening hours are particularly dangerous. Road construction sites are poorly marked, appear with no advance warning, and can be difficult to see at night. Roads are poorly lit, many vehicles have no operating lights, few bicycles have reflectors, and trucks without reflectors commonly park on unlit roads.
Exercise caution when traveling the roads of Laos, and be sure to check with local authorities, transport companies, other travelers, and/or the Embassy regarding any recent road developments prior to travel. Road obstacles, such as changes in surface conditions due to the weather, occur frequently.
Public transportation is unreliable and is limited after sunset. Automobile taxis or cars for hire are available at the airport, the Friendship Bridge, most major hotels, and near the Morning Market in Vientiane. The most common form of public transport is a three-wheeled, open-sided taxi called "tuk-tuks.” Tuk-tuks and taxis are frequently in poor repair, and drivers generally speak little or no English. Inter-city transport is provided by buses, vans, pickups, and trucks, any of which may also be in poor repair.
Emergency services in Laos are either unreliable or non-existent. Lao road traffic regulations require any driver coming upon a road accident to assist in transporting injured persons to a hospital.
Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:
As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by
carriers registered in Laos, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Lao
Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil
Aviation Organization
(ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight
of Laos’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on
the FAA safety assessment page.
CHILDREN’S ISSUES: Please see our Office of Children’s Issues web pages on intercountry adoption and international parental child abduction.
* * *
This replaces the Country Specific Information
for Laos dated June 18, 2010, to update sections on Entry/Exit
Requirements
for U.S. Citizens, Threat to Safety and
Security, Criminal Penalties, Special Circumstances, and Medical
Facilities and Health
Information.http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_946.html
Backpacker's survey about Laos : why go
You
will find here the results of our backpackers' survey as well as comments on
some aspects of Laos.
We
asked backpackers who had traveled in Laos for more than two weeks already
to answer the followings.
Do you like Laos ? 97% of the backpackers surveyed (69) say yes ! (same)
A
near unanimity of backpackers liked their experience in Laos. But how
they liked it largely depended of their itinerary : usually, the more
off the track, the best time ! If you are of a solitary kind but lack
imagination, you are prone to be disappointed !
Would
you happily come back ? 90%
of the backpackers surveyed (69) say yes ! (up)
Laos is rather small yet it offers so much potential of evasion, adventure and human contacts that it would
certainly require a few visas... But, for a minority of travelers, Laos has been lost to tourism already (or will be soon)...
Would
you recommend Laos ?
93%
of the backpackers surveyed (69) say yes ! (up)
Most
travelers would generously tell their friend about Laos. But again, will Laos be able to cope with mass-tourism ?
We also asked them to rate the followings :
The tourists attractions
Backpackers : 11.83 /20
(up)
A small rate which reflects the fact that, with the exception of Luang Prabang, part of the Unesco's Heritage List, Laos is rather empty from tourist attractions. There aren't any grandiose monument nor temples (some nice ruins in Champasak though) and even less museums worth the trip. In fact, Laos does not need any attractions : it is the attraction ! People do come to Laos for the full country package...
A small rate which reflects the fact that, with the exception of Luang Prabang, part of the Unesco's Heritage List, Laos is rather empty from tourist attractions. There aren't any grandiose monument nor temples (some nice ruins in Champasak though) and even less museums worth the trip. In fact, Laos does not need any attractions : it is the attraction ! People do come to Laos for the full country package...
The city scenery
Backpackers : 12.99 /20
(down)
Actually, you may wonder whether there are any real city in Laos as even the capital Vientiane somehow look like an overgrown village with a few old colonial houses and a very laid back atmosphere. Luang Prabang is even nicer and relaxing.
Actually, you may wonder whether there are any real city in Laos as even the capital Vientiane somehow look like an overgrown village with a few old colonial houses and a very laid back atmosphere. Luang Prabang is even nicer and relaxing.
The natural scenery
Backpackers : 17.82 /20 (down)
Nature is indeed the real attraction of Laos. The North of the country offers breathtaking mountainous sceneries spotted with minorities villages while the South boost very scenic islands on the Mekong river. As for Luang Prabang (again !), it boost one of the nicest waterfall seen in Asia.
Nature is indeed the real attraction of Laos. The North of the country offers breathtaking mountainous sceneries spotted with minorities villages while the South boost very scenic islands on the Mekong river. As for Luang Prabang (again !), it boost one of the nicest waterfall seen in Asia.
The cultural opportunities
Backpackers : 14.61 /20
(down)
Again, it is not so much about visiting monuments here than sharing the simple way of life of the local people & numerous tribes and feeling the touch of nature. And the more off the tourist path, the bigger the rewards !
Again, it is not so much about visiting monuments here than sharing the simple way of life of the local people & numerous tribes and feeling the touch of nature. And the more off the tourist path, the bigger the rewards !
The
food Backpackers
: 11.48 /20
(up)
No, Laos is not a food paradise ! But you do not starve either. The are no variety but what you get is usually tasty. Soup noodle is the most commonly offered dish, with fried rice coming at a close second. Sticky rice (some sweetened by bamboo cooking) is also famous. As for traditional cuisine, the offer is usually limited to laap meat dishes. Good snacks or desserts are more difficult to get : barbecued meat (of all kind) are on offer everywhere while roosted bananas makes for a cheap bite.
No, Laos is not a food paradise ! But you do not starve either. The are no variety but what you get is usually tasty. Soup noodle is the most commonly offered dish, with fried rice coming at a close second. Sticky rice (some sweetened by bamboo cooking) is also famous. As for traditional cuisine, the offer is usually limited to laap meat dishes. Good snacks or desserts are more difficult to get : barbecued meat (of all kind) are on offer everywhere while roosted bananas makes for a cheap bite.
The
infrastructures
Backpackers : 9.04 /20 (down)
A non surprising low rate as traveling in Laos is not always a funny experience. But it is always an adventure : bad roads (sometimes impractical after heavy rains), weird uncomfortable vehicles, crowded buses, late departures,... There is a good aspect to all this : things can only improve ! And things actually do improve as quite a few roads are being upgraded...
A non surprising low rate as traveling in Laos is not always a funny experience. But it is always an adventure : bad roads (sometimes impractical after heavy rains), weird uncomfortable vehicles, crowded buses, late departures,... There is a good aspect to all this : things can only improve ! And things actually do improve as quite a few roads are being upgraded...
The
cost of living and traveling
Backpackers : 15.77 /20
(up)
Laos is one of the cheapest place to visit in Asia but it is not as cheap as it used to be. All together, be prepared to spend around $7 per day, more if you drink beer (drinking lao lao would be cheaper), less if you share the accomodation with someone or use dormitories. The North is globally cheaper than the South.
Laos is one of the cheapest place to visit in Asia but it is not as cheap as it used to be. All together, be prepared to spend around $7 per day, more if you drink beer (drinking lao lao would be cheaper), less if you share the accomodation with someone or use dormitories. The North is globally cheaper than the South.
The
safety Backpackers :
16.81 /20
(up)
There does not seem to be any personal safety worry while touring Laos, that is if you except a mental breakdown while on a crowded bus with no view...
There does not seem to be any personal safety worry while touring Laos, that is if you except a mental breakdown while on a crowded bus with no view...
The
cleanliness Backpackers
: 12.58 /20
(up)
Off course, your perception will depend of where you are coming from, Singapore or India. Laos is certainly not clean as locals do not bother yet to go for the rare dustbins but it does not seem to bother backpackers too much. Sides of traffic roads are full of plastic bags but the small paths around the countryside are quite spared. Market areas are quite a sight but kitchen in restaurants are reasonably clean. And, as for the roads, things can only get better...
Off course, your perception will depend of where you are coming from, Singapore or India. Laos is certainly not clean as locals do not bother yet to go for the rare dustbins but it does not seem to bother backpackers too much. Sides of traffic roads are full of plastic bags but the small paths around the countryside are quite spared. Market areas are quite a sight but kitchen in restaurants are reasonably clean. And, as for the roads, things can only get better...
The
pollution Backpackers
: 14.38 /20 (same)
Being a rather undevelopped country of villages, Laos is not really affected by industrialist pollution yet. Dust from the road is abundant but it is a natural one...
Being a rather undevelopped country of villages, Laos is not really affected by industrialist pollution yet. Dust from the road is abundant but it is a natural one...
The
Shopkeepers' attitude Backpackers
: 15.54 /20
(up)
Not pushy and honest, it would be a real pleasure to shop in Laos if the shelves had more varieties to offer. Tuk-Tuk drivers will of course try to charge you more but that is the tradition of their job. Every bus which stop in a village is assaulted by snacks salesgirls but this is more a photographic opportunity than a cause of annoyance. In the north, some tribes salesladies are however real annoying with their opium or bracelets offers. Ignore them.
Not pushy and honest, it would be a real pleasure to shop in Laos if the shelves had more varieties to offer. Tuk-Tuk drivers will of course try to charge you more but that is the tradition of their job. Every bus which stop in a village is assaulted by snacks salesgirls but this is more a photographic opportunity than a cause of annoyance. In the north, some tribes salesladies are however real annoying with their opium or bracelets offers. Ignore them.
The
Minorities' attitude
Backpackers : 16.57 /20 (down)
(down)
All North Laos is populated with tribes people. They do not wear their traditional costumes very often now on (except as a marketing tool to sell you handicraft or opium) so it is difficult to tell them apart. I personally found them slightly less hospitable & friendly than the Lao people in the south but who cares ? There is however an evidence : you will need to leave the crowd to fully appreciate them.
(down)
All North Laos is populated with tribes people. They do not wear their traditional costumes very often now on (except as a marketing tool to sell you handicraft or opium) so it is difficult to tell them apart. I personally found them slightly less hospitable & friendly than the Lao people in the south but who cares ? There is however an evidence : you will need to leave the crowd to fully appreciate them.
The
Laos people's attitude
Backpackers : 16.81 /20
(up)
Basically the same perception as the above : friendly, hospitable, smiling and helpful. This generality being said, do not expect joy & dances just because you show up. You may actually have to initiate the contact with a smiling & loud "Sabaidy !". And off course, learning a few Lao sentences would not harm...
Basically the same perception as the above : friendly, hospitable, smiling and helpful. This generality being said, do not expect joy & dances just because you show up. You may actually have to initiate the contact with a smiling & loud "Sabaidy !". And off course, learning a few Lao sentences would not harm...
Entertainment
Backpackers : 6.81 /20
(down)
The lowest rate of the survey for what is really not a good reason to visit Laos : if you fancy night life & disco, you apparently got the wrong plane ! This being said, nobody prevent you from entertaining yourself with fellow backpackers and a few shots of lao-lao (A great St Patricks days was organized for example in Don Det), as long as you respect the country's custom of course...
The lowest rate of the survey for what is really not a good reason to visit Laos : if you fancy night life & disco, you apparently got the wrong plane ! This being said, nobody prevent you from entertaining yourself with fellow backpackers and a few shots of lao-lao (A great St Patricks days was organized for example in Don Det), as long as you respect the country's custom of course...
Shopping
Backpackers : 11.94 /20
(same)
Actually, whether for food, basic necessities or souvenirs, there aren't too much to write about. Big bazaar markets are more of a tourist attraction than a shopper paradise but you will usually find what you need. Food stores all look similarly empty, except at bordering town like Pakse or Savannakhet as a lot of goods are imported from Thailand or Vietnam. As for souvenirs, minorities area should do the stuff with some very colorful bags or jewelry. But this is definitively not Thailand !
Actually, whether for food, basic necessities or souvenirs, there aren't too much to write about. Big bazaar markets are more of a tourist attraction than a shopper paradise but you will usually find what you need. Food stores all look similarly empty, except at bordering town like Pakse or Savannakhet as a lot of goods are imported from Thailand or Vietnam. As for souvenirs, minorities area should do the stuff with some very colorful bags or jewelry. But this is definitively not Thailand !
Generally,
the country Backpackers
: 17.10 /20
(up)
An overall excellent rate ! Yes, obviously, despite its default and lack of cultural attractions, Laos is a great destination for backpackers ! But there are different ways to experience & appreciate it : for worries free (except a few transport thrills) & banana pancakes, follow the flow of travelers. But as visiting Laos is above all a natural and human experience, you should make the effort to visit a few "untouched" areas.
An overall excellent rate ! Yes, obviously, despite its default and lack of cultural attractions, Laos is a great destination for backpackers ! But there are different ways to experience & appreciate it : for worries free (except a few transport thrills) & banana pancakes, follow the flow of travelers. But as visiting Laos is above all a natural and human experience, you should make the effort to visit a few "untouched" areas.
Value
for money Backpackers
: 15.42 /20
(up)
Laos is certainly cheap but the recent prices increases have put it on the same level as Thailand. And, off course, being more developed and used to tourism, Thailand delivers slightly more. But then, Laos people & wild sceneries are unique & priceless...
Laos is certainly cheap but the recent prices increases have put it on the same level as Thailand. And, off course, being more developed and used to tourism, Thailand delivers slightly more. But then, Laos people & wild sceneries are unique & priceless...
Give your opinion ! If you have traveled in Laos for more than 2 weeks, please participate to our surveys !
Compare
Laos with other countries in the Asia
Section
How to get to Laos
How
to get to Laos - Travel information for Laos:
Ubon Ratchanthani (to enter Laos at Pakse in the south of Laos). Bangkok connects via airplane to Laos into Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Pakse. Cheaper flights may be booked if you fly with low cost arilines into places near the border.
Entering
Laos from Cambodia
Luang
Prabang is linked with major cities from neighboring countries.
There are daily connections between several places and other flights from to Luang Prabang as well.
Luang Prabang - Chiang Mai (Thailand)
Luang Prabang - Bangkok (Thailand) and all further connections
Luang Prabang - Vientiane (up to 4 times a day)
Luang Prabang - Hanoi (daily)
Luang Prabang - Siem Reap / Phnom Penh (few times per week)
Lao
Airlines
Vietnam Airlines
China Southern
Thai Airways
Bangkok Airways
EVA Air
On the Mekong to Luang Prabang - from the north of Laos and Thailand
If
you have not enough time and can stand some adventure and risk you can get fast
boats - speed boats - which will make it in one day! They are supposed to be dangerous
but actually it is good fun riding them. Please note that speed boats accidents
occur every year!
To Vientiane - Air Travel
International
Airlines link up with Vientiane such as Vietnam Airlines, Bangkok Air, Thai Airways,
Air Asia and others. Please check international connections with your Tour Operator
or Agent at home to get the best flight connection to Laos or Vientiane. Some flights
you may be able to book online, but please check recent travel information forums
for further details as well.
Most travelers to Laos arrive from Bangkok Airport and make their way up north into
Laos through Vientiane, Houay Xai or in the South through the area of Pakse. All
border crossings allow travelers to enter with visa on arrival. The fees do apply
on nationality and cost between 30-45 USD which you need to bring in cash when traveling
to Laos.
There are night buses, airplanes and train connections between major cities of South
East Asia connecting with Laos, such as Chiang Mai (to Enter via Mekong to Laos
- Houay Xai), Nong Khai (to enter via Vientiane) or Ubon Ratchanthani (to enter Laos at Pakse in the south of Laos). Bangkok connects via airplane to Laos into Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Pakse. Cheaper flights may be booked if you fly with low cost arilines into places near the border.
There are also direct flights to Laos also from Singapore, Hoh Chi Minh City, Hanoi
and from China as well as Bangkok. Arriving in Bangkok you can come over land within
a day.
Entering
Laos from Cambodia
is possible at one entry point in the south
Dong Crorlor in Cambodia. There are Buses connecting Phnom Penh and the border. Might be hard in rainy season. Also there are Mekong boats going upstream in the direction of Stung Treng (from here go on with Bus or Pick Up).
Dong Crorlor in Cambodia. There are Buses connecting Phnom Penh and the border. Might be hard in rainy season. Also there are Mekong boats going upstream in the direction of Stung Treng (from here go on with Bus or Pick Up).
Entering Laos from Vietnam
is easy to arrange from major cities in Vietnam. Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, Saigon and
other cities provide good bus connections into Laos...You can buy bus tickets in
all agencies and also arrange visas there, or on arrival.
Flying to Luang Prabang - Air Travel to Laos:
Luang
Prabang is linked with major cities from neighboring countries. There are daily connections between several places and other flights from to Luang Prabang as well.
Luang Prabang - Chiang Mai (Thailand)
Luang Prabang - Bangkok (Thailand) and all further connections
Luang Prabang - Vientiane (up to 4 times a day)
Luang Prabang - Hanoi (daily)
Luang Prabang - Siem Reap / Phnom Penh (few times per week)
Laos Air Travel Information - Airlines serving Lao airports:
Lao
Airlines
Vietnam Airlines
China Southern
Thai Airways
Bangkok Airways
EVA Air
For cheap onward air travel from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, Vientiane as well a
a new connection to Kuala Lumpur from Vientiane see also www.airasia.com
Over land travel to Luang Prabang - from the south
You find daily buses from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and even night buses
which run overnight with aircon...saving a night in a guest house. The ride is scenic
and
takes about 8-9 hrs. or much more... Traveling from Pakse you can take super cozy
nigh buses with sleeping areas for just about 20 USD up to Vientiane. The night
bus Pakse to Vientiane takes also about 8-9 hours.
and
takes about 8-9 hrs. or much more... Traveling from Pakse you can take super cozy
nigh buses with sleeping areas for just about 20 USD up to Vientiane. The night
bus Pakse to Vientiane takes also about 8-9 hours.
Also from Vang Vieng you find daily mini buses going up north to Luang Prabang
and Vientiane for a few Dollars. Buses need about 6 hrs.
On the Mekong to Luang Prabang - from the north of Laos and Thailand
coming from northern Thailand you may catch buses from Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and
other cities to get to the border town of Chiang Khong (Thai side). From
here cross the Mekong river to Houay Xai. Here you find slow boats down stream
to Pagbeng and further to Luang Prabang which takes 2 days (2 x 8 hrs.) Visas
are available on the border!
If
you have not enough time and can stand some adventure and risk you can get fast
boats - speed boats - which will make it in one day! They are supposed to be dangerous
but actually it is good fun riding them. Please note that speed boats accidents
occur every year!
From all northern Laos Cities there are daily buses to Luang Prabang as well. For
example from Luang Namtha, from Udom Xai and so on.
To Vientiane - Air Travel
International
Airlines link up with Vientiane such as Vietnam Airlines, Bangkok Air, Thai Airways,
Air Asia and others. Please check international connections with your Tour Operator
or Agent at home to get the best flight connection to Laos or Vientiane. Some flights
you may be able to book online, but please check recent travel information forums
for further details as well.
By Train to Laos
you can arrive with night trains from Bangkok to the small border town of Nhong
Kai. Take a Tuk-Tuk to the border of Thailand and enter Laos. From the border
of Laos you find many taxis and Tuk-Tuks who can transfer you into town for a few
dollars.
Weather
Weather
The annual monsoon cycles that affect all of mainland Southeast Asia produce a ‘dry and wet monsoon climate’ with three basic seasons for most of Laos. The southwest monsoon arrives in Laos between May and July and lasts into November.The monsoon is followed by a dry period (from November to May), beginning with lower relative temperatures and cool breezes created by Asia’s northeast monsoon (which bypasses most of Laos), lasting until mid-February. Exceptions to this general pattern include Xieng Khuang, Hua Phan and Phongsali Provinces, which may receive rainfall coming from Vietnam and China during the months of April and May.
Rainfall varies substantially according to latitude and altitude, with the highlands of Vientiane, Bolikhamsai, Khammuan and eastern Champasak Provinces receiving the most.
Temperatures also vary according to altitude. In the humid, low-lying Mekong River valley, temperatures range from 15°C to 38°C, while the mountains of Xieng Khuang it can drop to 0°C at night.
When to go
The best time for visiting most of Laos is between November and February, when it rains the least and is not too hot. It’s also Laos’s main season for both national and regional bun (festivals).If you plan to focus on the mountainous northern provinces, the hot season (from March to May) and early rainy season (around June) is not bad either, as temperatures are moderate at higher elevations. Southern Laos, on the other hand, is best avoided from March to May, when day-time temperatures break into the 40s and nights aren’t much cooler.
The rainy season is not as bad as you might think. While it will rain – very heavily – the downpours are often fairly brief and can be bracketed by long periods of sunshine. The rains also clear dust from the skies and land, making everything clearer and brighter. Of course, there are downsides; unsealed roads can become quagmires and extensive travel in remote areas like Salavan, Phongsali and Sainyabuli might be impossible. River travel can be a good alternative during these months. If you intend to travel extensively by river, November is the best; flooding has usually subsided yet river levels are still high enough for maximum navigability. Between January and June, low water can make navigating some rivers difficult.
December to February and August are the peak tourist times. January, in particular, is very busy and booking ahead is advisable.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/laos/weather
Go to Laos by Plane
Go to Laos By Plane:
Lao Aviation, Thai Airways International, Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Cambodia International Airlines, connect Wattay Airport to Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Beijing-Kunming, and Phnom Phen.
Flights’ Schedule:
1. Lao Aviation
2. Thai Airways International
Bangkok-Vientiane-Bangkok
Tuesday a.m., Thursday a.m., Saturday a.m., Sunday a.m.
Note: All return flights are in the early afternoon.
3. Air Vietnam
Hanoi-Vientiane-Hanoi
Monday a.m., Thursday a.m., Sunday a.m.
Note: all return flights are in early afternoon.
4. Malaysian Airlines
Kuala Lumpur- Vientiane- Kuala Lampur
Monday arrived Vientiane 12:30 h.
Thursday arrived Vientiane 12:30 h
5. China- Southern Airlines
Beijing-Kunming-Vientiane-Kunming-Beijing
Saturday a.m. (p.m. return flight)
6. Cambodia International Airlines.
Wednesday p.m.
II by Land
Visitor may enter Laos from:
Thailand: via Houay khon-Muang Ngen (Sayabouli)
Lao Aviation, Thai Airways International, Vietnam Airlines, China Southern Airlines and Cambodia International Airlines, connect Wattay Airport to Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Beijing-Kunming, and Phnom Phen.
Flights’ Schedule:
1. Lao Aviation
 | Vientiane-Bangkok-Vientiane | ||
| Monday a.m., Tuesday p.m., Wednesday p.m., Thursday p.m., Friday p.m., | ||
| Vientiane-Ho Chi Minh-Vientiane | ||
| Friday a.m., | ||
| Vientiane –Phnom Phen- Vientiane | ||
| Friday a.m. (return flight via Phom Phen) | ||
| Vientiane-Phnom Phen-Vientiane | ||
| Friday a.m., (via Ho Chi Minh) |
2. Thai Airways International
Bangkok-Vientiane-Bangkok
Tuesday a.m., Thursday a.m., Saturday a.m., Sunday a.m.
Note: All return flights are in the early afternoon.
3. Air Vietnam
Monday a.m., Thursday a.m., Sunday a.m.
Note: all return flights are in early afternoon.
4. Malaysian Airlines
Monday arrived Vientiane 12:30 h.
Thursday arrived Vientiane 12:30 h
5. China- Southern Airlines
Beijing-Kunming-Vientiane-Kunming-Beijing
Saturday a.m. (p.m. return flight)
6. Cambodia International Airlines.
Wednesday p.m.
II by Land
Visitor may enter Laos from:
Thailand: via Houay khon-Muang Ngen (Sayabouli)
- Via Nongkhai to Vientiane
- Via Chiang Khon to Bokeo
- Via Ubol to Chongmek (Pakse)
- Via Mookdaharn to savannakhet
- China via Muangla to Boten (Luang Namtha)
- Vietnam via Quangtry to Savanakhet
- Via Kimguong-Lakxao (Bolikhamxay)
- Via Lao Bao-Daensavanh (Savannakhet)
http://www.asia-discovery.com/Laos_Trans.htm
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