Modern life is stressful, isn’t it? The news is always depressing, we’re all glued to our phones and even when we travel we find ourselves scrolling through social media or checking emails. Sometimes you just want to fully disconnect from the modern world and focus on real-life experiences. Globalization...
Laos
Laos is becoming sought-after amongst travellers for its pristine landscapes, unspoiled culture and friendly locals. Enjoy the scenery and the laid-back lifestyle, permeating the entire country, even the capital, Vientiane.
Famous for
- Buddhist Temples: Laos is home to some of the most stunning Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, including the iconic Pha That Luang in Vientiane and the ancient ruins of Wat Phou in Champasak.
- Traditional Textiles: The Lao people are known for their intricate and colorful textiles, which are often woven by hand using traditional techniques. Visitors can see these textiles being made and purchase them as souvenirs.
- Rice Terraces: Laos is home to some of the most beautiful rice terraces in the world, which are carved into the steep hillsides of the northern countryside. Visitors can hike through the terraces and learn about the traditional farming methods used by the Lao people.
Did you know? – Facts about Laos
- Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia: Unlike its neighbours such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, Laos is not bordered by any sea or ocean. Despite being landlocked, however, Laos is home to the mighty Mekong River, which runs through the country and is a vital source of food and transportation for the Lao people.
- Also known as the “Land of a Million Elephants“: Elephants have long been an important part of Lao culture and history, and can still be seen working in the countryside and at elephant sanctuaries. Visitors to Laos can ride on an elephant’s back through the jungle, watch them play in the river, and even participate in elephant conservation projects.
- Cuisine: Lao cuisine is distinct from the food of its neighbouring countries, with a focus on fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices. Some of the most popular dishes include larb (a spicy meat salad), tam mak hoong (a spicy papaya salad), and sticky rice (a staple of Lao cuisine). Visitors to Laos can also try unusual foods such as fried insects, which are a common snack in the country.
Experiencing Laos
Our latest guides to Laos.
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Living Land Farm: Experiencing Rural Life in Laos
Set in idyllic countryside in the heart of Laos, you’ll find the Living Land Farm. Established in 2005, this thriving farm was formed by a group of locals who wanted to combine their land to give it a better use. And it seems they have had every success. Today,...
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10 Things to Make You See Laos in a Different Light
Set between Thailand and Vietnam, landlocked Laos is often overshadowed by its better-known neighbours. And after years of war and isolation, the country has certainly seen less development than the rest of Southeast Asia. But from its spectacular scenery and hill tribes to its delicious cuisine and former French...
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Top Eight Things To Do in Laos
From the laidback capital of Vientiane and the charm of UNESCO-listed Luang Prabang, to the picture perfect landscape of Vieng Vang and the spectacular waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau, Laos is brimming with cultural and natural wonders. From the north to the south of the country there are plenty...
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Eight of the World’s Most Inspiring Female Travellers Alive Today
What better way to celebrate International Women’s Day than to be inspired by the female travellers making their marks around the world? Following our previous blog that looked at the greatest female travellers of all time, we’ve compiled a list of eight of the world’s most inspiring female travellers...
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Travel Happy: The World’s Cheeriest Destinations
If the news is anything to go by, we’re headed for nuclear war, there will never be peace and the planet is doomed. The newspapers and channels constantly focus on the negative, making it difficult to keep things in perspective. So let’s take our heads out of the tabloids....
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Hill tribe trekking in Laos
No doubt you’ve heard of Chiang Mai and Sapa and the excellent opportunities these popular destinations offer for trekking through gorgeous scenery and hill tribe villages but have you ever considered Luang Namtha? The answer to that is probably ‘no’ as this region of Laos remains blissfully under-visited by...
