PIXEL VISA

Stunning Natural Beauty

Laos is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush tropical forests, serene rice paddies, and scenic mountain ranges. It is often called the "Land of a Million Elephants" due to its rich natural heritage.

Cultural Heritage

The country has a rich cultural heritage with a blend of traditional Laotian customs, Buddhism, and colonial influences. The historic city of Luang Prabang, known for its well-preserved architecture and temples, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mekong River

The Mekong River flows through Laos and offers picturesque river cruises and activities. The Four Thousand Islands (Si Phan Don) in the south are particularly popular for their stunning river scenery.

Adventure Tourism

Laos is gaining recognition as an adventure tourism destination, with opportunities for trekking, caving, rock climbing, and zip-lining in its diverse landscapes.

Laotian Cuisine

Laotian cuisine is distinctive and known for its flavorful dishes. Sticky rice, grilled meats, and herbs are common ingredients. Larb, a spicy minced meat salad, is a popular dish.

Backpacker Rating

I would rate Laos as a 8.5/10 for backpackers with a backpacker living cost of $15.50 USD, which includes 3 meals at an average of $2.54 USD per meal and a night at a hostel for an average of $7.77 USD per night. Laos' high rating comes from the number of backpacking adventures such as treks, Mekong cruises, and parks available to explore at a low price. Lower living cost also contributes to the high rating, with a living cost $5 less per day than Thailand, making it one of the cheapest backpacking countries in Southeast Asia. However, Laos' rating also comes with the caveat that it is less traveled by backpackers and a bit off the beaten path. In addition to that, Laos does not have a large English speaking population. In Laos, backpackers are viewed as travelers with money to offer and locals will try to take advantage of this by raising prices for food, goods, and services. Here, it is important to know the Phasa Lao key words "Sabaidee" or "hello", "khob chai" or "thank you", "taka lo dai?" or "how much does this cost?" and "phaeng lai lai!" or "too expensive!" Laos is recognized as a backpacker adventure zone with so much to offer. However, be careful when adventuring on your own as there are UXO or unexploded ordinances hidden across the countryside from the Secret War of the 1960s.

Secret War

In the 1960s, as part of the United States' interference of the Laotian Civil War and Vietnam War, the USA dropped over 2 million tons of bombs over Laos, making it the most heavily bombed nation in the world. To this day, many unexploded bombs or bombies exist across the Laotian landscape and cause numerous deaths and injuries every year. These unexploded ordinances are referred to as UXO. In Laos, America is widely known to be responsible for the destruction caused by UXOs. However, very few people in America even know that Laos was targeted during these conflicts, thus dubbing it the "Secret War." The Secret War causes an interesting dynamic between Americans / Western backpackers and the Laotian people. Although Laotians are very polite people, it is also evident that they consider a lot of their nation's economic and social downfall to be the result of western interference and impact. While in Luang Prabang or Vientiane, you might find it respectful to visit a UXO / Secret War museum and learn more about this countries history and western impact. However, if somebody on the street tries to sell you a souvenir made from UXO scrap metal, be careful.. the likelihood that the item is actually made from UXO is low (UXOs are composed of very little aluminum) and purchasing an item may encourage the illegal collection and tampering of UXO explosives.

Depreciating Currency

Since the COVID-19 pandemic and especially after 2021, Laos has had a rapidly depreciating currency. As of writing this, 1 USD is valued at 20,751 LAK, but just a couple of weeks ago, it was valued at 20,672 LAK and a year ago it was valued at 17,000 LAK. Because of this, prices of Laotian goods and services are constantly changing. Certain areas in Laos use a fixed exchange rate which may be outdated. Unfortunately, there's no use in trying to negotiate this, as all businesses in the city will use the same rate.

Conservative, But Happy

Laotian culture is much more conservative than its Thai neighbor. For example, although attitudes are changing, tattoos are often frowned upon or seen as western tradition. Another example of Laotian policy is the use of small bows when moving around another person to show your acknowledgement of them as you approach their space. The first time I saw this, I was surprised as I had seen nothing like it in many years. Although Laos holds more conserved and traditional customs, the people are very happy and communal people. Embracing the Buddhist principle of sangha, community and family are a cornerstone of Laotian values.

Cuisine, Architecture, and French Impact

Laotian cuisine involves many more neutral flavors when compared to Thailand. While Thailand uses fish oil and spices, Laos specializes in herbs.. and lots of salt. I found that food in Laos was often a bit salty for my taste and rice always helped neutralize heavily flavored soups and meat. Laotian culture has been heavily impacted by French colonization. In Laos, French bakeries and architecture are more common and add a familiar touch for westerners visiting.

Mosquitoes and Sickness

Laos has a very tropical climate, bringing with it mosquitoes. When leaving the hostel or hotel, use mosquito spray which you can find at a local mini mart. Mosquitoes are most active between 4pm and 10am during the evening, night, and morning. Mosquito-spread illness is more common in Laos than in other parts of Southeast Asia, so it is important to be familiar with the symptoms of Malaria, Dengue Hemorrhaging Fever, Zika, and Japanese Encephalitis for which vaccination / medication is recommended. While in Laos, I took doxycycline as an anti-malarial. However, anti-malarial medications often cause side effects like stomach issues and sun sensitivity. On the mention of stomach issues, it's also important to note that it is very common to get a stomach sickness while in Laos. In Vientiane, I become sick with some kind of stomach bug which had me stuck in hostel beds for several days and caused me to have a miserable sleeping bus trip. Definitely watch what you eat and stay safe!

January 1

New Year's Day Celebrated nationwide, marking the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year with various festivities and parties.

February 20

Chinese New Year Also known as Lunar New Year, it is celebrated predominantly in areas with a significant Chinese population, featuring dragon dances, lantern festivals, and family gatherings.

April 14 to 16

Lao New Year (Pi Mai Lao) One of the most important holidays in Laos, it marks the traditional New Year with water fights, religious ceremonies, and cultural events.

May 1

International Workers' Day Similar to Labor Day, it honors workers and their contributions to society.

May 5

Boun Bang Fai (Rocket Festival) Celebrated in various regions, this festival involves launching large homemade rockets into the sky to encourage rainfall for the planting season.

May 16 to 18

Visakha Bucha Similar to the Thai celebration, it commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha, observed on the full moon day.

July 23

Boun Khao Phansa Marks the beginning of Buddhist Lent, a three-month period during which monks traditionally retreat to monasteries for intensive meditation and study.

August 15

Boun Hor Khao Padap Din A ceremony where offerings are made to deceased ancestors, promoting the well-being of their spirits in the afterlife.

September 22 to 25

Boun Ok Phansa Celebrates the end of Buddhist Lent with various religious activities, including candlelit processions and boat races.

October 5

That Luang Festival Held at Laos' most significant religious monument, That Luang in Vientiane, featuring religious ceremonies, parades, and traditional performances.

October 19 to 21

Boat Racing Festival (Boun Souang Heua) Celebrated in various locations along the Mekong River, this event showcases traditional longboat races and cultural displays.

November 11

That Inhang Festival Honoring a sacred stupa in Savannakhet province, the festival includes religious ceremonies, traditional dances, and processions.

November 21 to 23

That Sikhottabong Festival Celebrated in Thakhek, Khammouane province, this event pays homage to a revered stupa with religious rituals and lively festivities.

December 2 to 4

Hmong New Year A vibrant cultural celebration by the Hmong ethnic group, featuring traditional clothing, music, dance, and sports competitions.

December 25

Christmas Day Although not a traditional Lao holiday, Christmas is observed by some communities, particularly in urban areas, with festive decorations and special church services.**

Laos uses the Lao Kip (LAK) as its official currency. Banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 kip. Coins are also in circulation but are less commonly used and come in values of 10, 20, 50, and 100 kip. While the official currency is the Lao Kip, neighboring Thai Baht (THB) is widely accepted in areas near the border, especially in the north of Laos. Similarly, in some tourist-centric locations, U.S. Dollars (USD) may be accepted for larger transactions, but it's advisable to carry Lao Kip for smaller purchases and when traveling in less touristy regions. Additionally, for exchanging money, you'll find both official exchange centers and banks in major cities.

Laap/Larb (ລາບ)

A minced meat salad typically made with fish, chicken, or pork, mixed with herbs, lime, fish sauce, and ground toasted rice.

Tam Mak Hoong (ຕໍາຫມາກຫຸ່ງ)

Green papaya salad, similar to Thailand's Som Tum, featuring shredded papaya, tomatoes, chilies, lime, fish sauce, and peanuts.

Khao Niaw (ເຂົ້າຫນ້ຽ)

Sticky rice, a staple in Laotian cuisine, often served as an accompaniment to various dishes.

Mok Pa (ມອກປາ)

Steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves, flavored with lemongrass, herbs, and fish sauce.

Or Lam (ອຸດລຳ)

A hearty stew with vegetables, herbs, and meat (often water buffalo), seasoned with galangal, garlic, and chilies.

Khao Jee (ເຂົ້າຈີ່)

Grilled sticky rice, a popular street food, often served with spicy dipping sauces.

Ping Kai (ປີ້ງໄກ່)

Grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of herbs, garlic, and fish sauce.

Khao Piak Sen (ເຂົ້າປຽກແຊນ)

A comforting rice noodle soup with chicken or pork, often enjoyed as a breakfast dish.

Jeow Bong (ແຈ່ວບອງ)

A spicy chili paste made with chilies, garlic, galangal, and often dried buffalo skin, served as a condiment.

Kaipen (ໄຄແປນ)

Mekong River weed, deep-fried and seasoned with sesame seeds, garlic, and other spices.

Khao Poon (ເຂົ້າປຸ້ນ)

A noodle soup made with fermented rice noodles, meat (often chicken or fish), and flavored with lemongrass and galangal.

Khao Tom (ເຂົ້າຕົ້ມ)

A rice soup usually served for breakfast, containing rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.
- Laos Coffee (Kaafae Lao

ກາຟແລວ)

Strong and often sweetened with condensed milk, Laos coffee is a popular and robust drink.

Nam Van (ນ້ຳຫວານ)

A coconut-based dessert made with agar-agar, coconut milk, and sugar, often molded into colorful shapes.

Khao Tom Mat (ເຂົ້າຕົ້ມມັດ)

Sweet sticky rice and banana parcels wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Khao Lam (ເຂົ້າລາມ)

Bamboo tube sticky rice, where sweet sticky rice is cooked with coconut milk inside bamboo tubes.

Salor Hoy Tod (ສະຫລອຍໂຮດຕົກ)

A sweet mung bean and coconut custard.

Lao Custard (ຂີ້)

A smooth and creamy coconut custard often topped with pumpkin slices.

Sangkaya (ສັງຄາຍ)

Coconut custard served with sweet sticky rice.

Khao Nom Kok (ເຂົ້ານົມຂອກ)

Miniature coconut rice pancakes, typically enjoyed as a snack.

Khao Niew Mamuang (ເຂົ້ານີ້ມ່ວງ)

Mango sticky rice, a popular dessert featuring ripe mango slices over sweet sticky rice, drizzled with coconut milk.

Kanom Tom (ຂະໂມຍ)

Sweet stuffed glutinous rice balls filled with mung bean paste or coconut.

Khao Nom Wan (ເຂົ້ານົມວັນ)

A sweet dessert soup made with coconut milk, pandan leaves, and various ingredients such as taro or banana.

Hipster Culture

In Lao's urban hubs like Vientiane and Luang Prabang, a burgeoning hipster culture is taking root. You'll discover quaint cafes serving artisanal coffee, lively music scenes featuring indie and folk artists, and a growing number of vintage boutiques. These cities have neighborhoods akin to those found in global hipster hotspots, with a blend of modern creativity and traditional charm.

Ecological Preservation

Lao's natural beauty is a draw for eco-tourism. The country boasts lush landscapes, pristine waterways, and numerous national parks. However, it also faces ecological challenges such as deforestation and pollution. The younger generation is becoming increasingly involved in environmental activism, striving to conserve the country's unique flora and fauna.

Vegetarian/Vegan Diets

While traditional Lao cuisine leans towards meat and fish, there's a rising interest in plant-based diets, particularly in urban areas like Vientiane. Lao people are increasingly embracing vegetarian options, especially during Buddhist festivals. Veganism is less common but gaining traction, with expats and health-conscious locals exploring this lifestyle choice for ethical and health reasons.

Cannabis Culture

Lao culture has a historical connection to cannabis, which has been used for both medicinal and culinary purposes. The country, however, has not followed Thailand's path in legalizing medical cannabis. Recreational cannabis use remains illegal, with legal penalties. The topic remains somewhat controversial, and Lao society has yet to fully embrace the cannabis culture shift seen in some other countries. Like in many Southeast Asian countries, cannabis can be found sold in cafes and restaurants, but be cautious when purchasing, as some establishments may be in connection with the local police.

Conservative Values

Laos is known for its traditional and conservative values, which are heavily influenced by Buddhism, the dominant religion in the country. These values encompass various aspects of life, including relationships and sexual behavior. Public displays of affection, even among couples, are generally kept to a minimum, as overt expressions of intimacy are considered inappropriate in public spaces.

Traditional Gender Roles

Laos maintains traditional gender roles, where men and women are expected to adhere to distinct roles within the family and society. Men are typically seen as the primary breadwinners, while women often take on responsibilities related to household and family care. These roles can influence perceptions of relationships and sexuality.

Marriage Before Sex

The cultural emphasis on marriage as a prerequisite for sexual relationships is strong. Premarital sex is generally frowned upon, and couples are encouraged to formalize their relationships through marriage before engaging in sexual activity. This reflects the importance placed on family and social norms in Lao society.

Low Public Discourse

In Laos, discussions related to sex and sexual health are not commonly held in public or open settings. Unlike more liberal societies, where sexual health and relationships are discussed openly, Lao society tends to keep such conversations private and limited to trusted circles.

Limited LGBTQ+ Visibility

Laos, like many Southeast Asian countries, has limited visibility and acceptance of LGBTQ+ issues and relationships. While there may be a degree of tolerance, open discussions about LGBTQ+ topics are not as common as in more progressive societies.

Sex Education

Sex education in Lao schools is generally limited, and comprehensive sexual health information is not widely available. This lack of education can lead to misunderstandings, limited access to contraception, and sexual health services. There is a need for more comprehensive sex education and awareness, especially among the youth.

Youthful Influences

Laos, like many countries, is experiencing changes in attitudes toward sex and relationships, particularly among the younger generation. Exposure to Western media and cultural influences, often through the internet and social media, is gradually shaping evolving perspectives and attitudes toward sex and relationships. This generational shift can lead to more open discussions and changing norms in the future.