Laos
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An Introduction to Laos
Laos is a landlocked country popular with backpackers for its laid back vibes, jaw dropping scenery, adventurous activities and being a budget friendly destination.
We have visited Laos three times now, and have completely fallen in love with it. From trekking the viewpoints and sipping in the bars in Nong Khiaw, to the charming UNESCO site of Luang Prabang and the party town of Vang Vieng. Laos has everything a backpacker could want.
Useful Information:
Capital: Vientiane
Language: Laotian
Laotian is the main language, although there are many tribal languages throughout the country. In all major backpacker hubs, English will be commonly spoken and you should not have issues arranging transport or accommodation. If you get truly off the beaten path then there will be much less English spoken, but as always a nod, point and smile will get you far!
Currency: Laotian Kip (LAK)
Current conversion to GDP
The Laotian kip is a closed currency and not freely traded outside the country. If you have a good UK bank account that doesn’t charge international fees (e.g. Monzo or Starling), we recommend simply withdrawing money ATMs. See more on this below.
Laos Visa (UK citizens):
UK citizens can get a visa on arrival for 30 days at Luang Prabang and Vientiene airports as well as the Huay Xai border crossing. Confirm in advance for all other land crossings, as not all will allow visa on arrival. The visa costs $40 USD and can be paid in USD, Laotian Kip or Thai Baht.
There is also an e-visa service, but this has to be a minimum of three days before you travel to Laos.
The visa can be extended for roughly a dollar a day at offices in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. We knew some people who used local agents to get their visa extended, but this did involve trusting your passport to a stranger!
Laotian Emergency Numbers:
Police: 191
Medical: 195
Laos Dialling Code:
+856
Sim Cards:
Sim cards are extremely cheap and we found the best carrier to be Unitel, with good coverage and super cheap prices. You can buy these anywhere, including just after you’ve landed at the airport. Unlike some destinations, the Sim cards are so cheap it doesn’t matter if the airport makes you pay a slightly premium price - the difference will be pennies! Once you have the Sim card download the Unitel App and use it to top up as needed. You may need to buy credit to top up your balance, you can buy scratch cards to do this from nearly every shop in nearly every town.
ATMs:
There is usually a small charge to withdraw money from ATMS in Laos. Typically this will be around 30,000 kip. But just be warned, ATMs are few and far between as well as being frequently out of service. Cards are not accepted in 90% of shops, restaurants or bars and in those that do accept cards, they will charge an extra % on top (usually 3%) if you want to pay on plastic. Make sure you have enough cash with you! As with everywhere in the world we would recommend getting a good bank card that doesn’t add a fee for international withdrawals and using ATMs, if you use currency exchanges or tourist office exchanges be prepared for a steep charge.
Travelling Around Laos:
Travelling around Laos is super easy. You can just use someone like 12GO to book tickets in advance. Or if you’re travelling on the fly, then ask your accommodation, just make sure you book well in advance.
The bus stops and train stations are usually always a little way outside of town. The tuk tuks at the other end will always try to fleece you for the ride into town. Club together with your fellow passengers to negotiate a fairer price.
If you’re travelling by bus, bike or by car, the roads are extremely bumpy and even short distances can take a while to get there. If you’re short on time, make sure you factor this into your Laotian itinerary.
Best Time to Visit Laos:
The best time to visit Laos is during the “dry season” between October and April. During this time you’ll have minimal rainfall and hot temperatures. Some places can get cool in the night and the further north you go, the cooler it will be.
You can travel during the “wet season” between May and October, but the road conditions can be very treacherous and lots of the outdoor activities such as hiking or canoeing may not be possible. However, it will be bursting with life and greenery.
What Not to Miss in Laos:
Luang Prabang - Monks and history in a UNESCO World Heritage city
Don Det and the Thousand Islands - Relax and Chill in amazing surroundings.
Where to Go After Laos?
Laos is bordered by Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand and buses to and from these countries can be brought in advance via 12Go.
If you’re arriving or exiting by plane, the main airports are located in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
Interesting Laos Facts:
Laos is the only landlocked country in south east Asia. But even though it has no beaches, the mighty Mekong and multiple other rivers snake their way through the country like watery highways. If you are looking for a Laotian beach break, do not despair! The 4000 Islands in southern Laos are full of small sandy beaches to relax on whilst swimming in the Mekong.
Laos has the unenviable accolade of being the world's most bombed country. Despite never being openly at war with the USA, it was pummelled by the heaviest bombing the world has ever seen. During the “Secret War” more bombs were dropped per day on Laos than on Germany and Japan combined in World War 2. The effect is still being felt today where unexploded bombs cause death and injury on a sadly regular basis.
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