Laos in a few key words? Authentic, unspoiled nature, beautiful waterfalls, mountains, villages and hospitality. If you visit the north of Thailand it is definitely recommended to also visit Laos. Laos is the country where time seems to have stopped, and this beautiful country has not been affected yet by mass tourism.
What to do in Laos
A cruise on the Mekong, a walk through a Hmong settlement (northeast of Laos), wander from temple to temple in the historic city of Luang Prabang, have a meal on the riverbank in the capital city of Vientiane or visit the ancient royal city of Champasak.
It doesn’t matter what you do, because everywhere in Laos life happens at the same pace. And that is at its slowest. Besides that, a large part of its nature is still untouched, therefore, many roads are difficult to pass. Accommodation and dining is always at a very low price, and the amount of experiences are endless.
Boat trip in Laos
Many visitors start their journey in Laos with a two-day boat trip on the Mekong River by slow boat. A speedboat is not recommended, and if you see them on the river, you’ll understand why. In October you can witness the boatraces on the Mekong.
Frankly speaking, the benches onboard are not the softest, but the fact that you can sail on the Mekong River to ancient Luang Prabang makes it all worth it. Meanwhile, you’ll be exposed to splendid natural surroundings, a variety of hills and mountains, interspersed with the most idyllic fishing villages.
French influences in Laos
Travellers familiar with Thailand, who visit Laos for the first time, are surprised to see that Laotians drive on the right side of the road. Laos used to be under French supervision and you can actually find great baguettes here. The main languages are Lao, French and English. Laotian people are very friendly, and even if their English skills are low, they are always willing to help you.
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is like a mini France where everyone bikes. Here you can find French restaurants, croissants, La Vache Qui Rit cheese, and French-speaking Laotians. And they certainly know what great atmosphere is! Travellers who have been here note the big variety of food offered: from wiener schnitzel and cordon bleu to french fries with mayonnaise. Of course, there is also a wide range of rice and noodles if you want to eat like the locals.
Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is also known as the "backpacker’s village". It is an excellent place to relax and yet be active. The most popular water sport here is definitely tubing. Near the border of Cambodia there’s also the beautiful Li Phi waterfall to be found, the largest waterfall in Asia. The local scenery is painted in luscious greens, the landscape dominated by high irregular karst mountains, overgrown with trees and shrubs.