First information for traveling Laos

++ Landscape
The small land-locked nation of Laos has the lowest population density in Asia, largely thanks to its rugged terrain. More than 70 percent of the country is made up of highland areas, with most people concentrated in the river valleys. The Mekong River is the country’s lifeline.

++ Climate
Laos has two seasons. The rainy season runs from May through October and the dry season from November to April. Most rain falls in the south. For the most part, Laos is hot, although there is a good deal of fl ctuation between summer and winter temperatures at higher elevations. The capital, Vientiane, ranges from the mid-30s Celsius (mid-80s Fahrenheit) in April to the upper- 20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit) in January. In the mountains, however, temperatures can plummet to near freezing in December and January. Please note – during February and March local people burn the fields and forests to prepare for the annual crops, so during this time Laos is typically hot and smoky.

++ People
Laos has less than five million people, about half of them of Lao ethnicity. The Lao are concentrated in the Mekong River valley while people of Thai ethnicity live in upland river valleys. Other ethnic groups, including the H’mong and Mien, live at higher elevations.

Theravada Buddhism is the prevalent religion among lowland Lao, although many Lao also practice phi (spirit) worship. Outside the Mekong River valley phi worship is stronger still.

++ History
Laos’ rugged terrain made the establishment of large kingdoms impractical.
In the 14th century a Lao warlord, Far Gum, founded the Kingdom of Lan Xang around what is now Luang Prabang. This kingdom split into three warring states in the 17th century, which had their capitals in Luang Prabang, Champasak and Vientiane.

In the 1820s all three kingdoms came under Thai control, but in 1839 the French signed a treaty with Siam and added Laos to their colonial empire.

Lao achieved independence from French rule in 1953. Peace was short-lived, however, as the Americans began bombing eastern Laos in 1964 in a bid to target a section of the Ho Chi Minh Trail that passed through Lao territory. Fighting between the Communist Pathet Lao and royalist government in Vientiane ensued, ending with a ceasefire in 1973. In December 1975 the Pathet Lao took control in Vientiane, founding the Lao People’s
Democratic Republic.

++ The Highlights of Laos

VIENTIANE
Set along a bend in the Mekong River, Laos’ capital is a relaxing place to while away a few days. You’ll find some beautiful old Wats to explore, a large market that holds the best selection of hand-woven textiles in the country, a variety of good restaurants serving an international mix of cuisine, and pleasant riverside bars at which to sip a beer and enjoy the sunset. This is a lovely spot to recover from the rigors of travel.

VANG VIENG
Formerly a pit stop between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, now Vang Vieng has become a destination for those keen to enjoy eco tours, trekking, caving and rock climbing activities. The main attraction is the laid-back countryside and intricate rock formations riddled with caves, although the town is popular with backpackers for its river tubing and social cafes and bars. From Vang Vieng it’s around 6-8 hours to Luang Prabang, or 3-4 hours to Vientiane.

LUANG PRABANG
The site of Laos’ former royal capital, the little town of Luang Prabang is a gem. Nestled in an elbow of the Mekong surrounded by treed mountains, this remote northern town has long been Laos’ religious centre. You’ll find dozens of historic temples, lovely French-built villas, and streets lined with charming old shop-houses. With its main hall inlaid with a dazzling mosaic of cut glass the Royal Palace is well worth a visit, as are the Pak Ou caves, a Buddhist cave shrine some distance up river. An early wake up
to enjoy giving Alm Bowl to the monks on the street for making a merit.

Please note – the largest type of vehicle permitted in Luang Prabang is a 22- seater coaster minivan, and nothing with more than 15 seats is allowed in the town’s old quarter, which is home to most of the city highlights, hotels and restaurants. Groups numbering more than 15 will be spited into minivans, or local tuk-tuk (each tuk-tuk can accommodate four or five persons)

XIENGKHOANG - PLAIN OF JARS
While there are many theories, nobody really knows why hundreds of huge stone jars are scattered across several sites on a barren Laotian plain. Carved from solid rock, most of these containers weigh from 600kg to one tone apiece; the largest weighs six tones. The jars are said to be 2,000 years old but again, nobody knows for sure. Were they sarcophagi, water jars rice stores? Scientists continue to debate this intriguing find; other visitors just marvel at these mysterious relics.

PAKSE
Set on the Mekong River, the southern town of Pakse features French colonial architecture and a colorful market stocked with fresh produce grown in the nearby Bolaven Plateau, a highland region inhabited by a number of ethnic minority groups. Pakse is also the jumping off point for a visit to Wat Phu, an exquisite, Angkor-era temple complex built between the 6th and 13th centuries. Even the most temple-weary visitor can’t help but be captivated by the mesmerizing beauty of these lonely ruins.

What to bring?

++ CLOTHING
If your trip to Laos includes stops at beaches and mountainous areas, you will need clothes for all temperatures. A swimsuit, sunglasses, a hat, t-shirts, shorts that are not too revealing, long trousers, some light-weight, long-sleeved tops and a light jacket that is wind and rain-resistant will get you through most trips. If you plan to visit northern Laos in the winter, you’ll need a warm coat. Mountainous areas can get chilly; choose clothes you can layer. If trekking is on your agenda, you will need sturdy footwear—plus lots of socks. Slip-on shoes or sandals are useful for visits to pagodas or people’s houses, as you’ll save time taking your shoes on and off.

Even though Laos doesn’t have many upscale bars and restaurants, larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and even Phnom Penh and Yangon do. If you’re planning to travel elsewhere, be sure to pack some clothes and shoes for a nice evening out but leave your fl ashy jewellery at home.

++ TOILETRIES & MEDICATION
While imported beauty products are readily available in major cities, you’d be wise to pack staples like sunscreen, contact lens solution, tampons and mosquito repellent, as well as prescription medication. Many medicines are available in Indochina without prescriptions, but they may be out-of date or of poor quality.

++ TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
you should bring a money-belt to safely carry your travel documents and cash, and ensure that your luggage has a lock. Bring photo-copies of your passport and visa, plus some extra passport-sized photos if you’re applying for on-arrival visas. When flying into or within Vietnam, you will probably be given baggage claim tags (they will be stuck to the back of your ticket). Keep these, as you will need to show them when leaving the airport.

++ BOOKS
Reading materials may be hard to find, especially in less-touristy areas, so bring some good books. While cheap, counterfeit CDs are tempting, remember that you may face trouble when you bring these illegal copies home.

++ FILM
Film is sold in bigger tourist centers, although it may be out-of-date or sun-damaged. Stock up in Bangkok or bring it from home. For peace of mind, skip the cut-price, back-alley photo shops and get your precious pictures developed some place you trust.

++ Good manners
In Southeast Asia, revealing clothing is unacceptable off the beach. Shorts are generally fine—as long as they aren’t too short. People tend to dress as well as they can afford to - Laos people are often astonished by some travelers’ choice of dirty and tattered clothing. When visiting pagodas or temples, shorts and tank-tops are unacceptable. Your knees and shoulders must be covered. Footwear and socks must be removed in pagodas. Shoes are usually removed upon entering private homes too.

In terms of behavior, public displays of affection between men and women are considered shocking. On the other hand, it’s perfectly normal for a pair of men or a pair of women to link arms or hold hands. Upon meeting someone new, people may simply nod to each other or may shake hands. Using both hands to shake someone’s hand is a warm gesture of respect.

Beckoning someone by crooking your finger is very rude. The correct way to call someone over is to extend your hand with the palm down and flap your fingers towards your wrist. To ask for the bill in a restaurant or shop, extend one hand in front of you with the palm raised and pretend to write on your palm with the other hand.
The majority of men in Laos smoke. While flights are non-smoking, very few restaurants or bars offer non-smoking seating.

++ Safety tips
In general, Laos is very safe for travelers. Violent attacks are rare, although theft is a problem. When possible, secure your valuables in the hotel safe. Remember to record your traveller’s cheque numbers and credit card info—just in case.

Do not leave your wallet or mobile phone in the back pocket of your pants or anywhere else that’s easily reached (like an outer zip-up compartment on a backpack). Be especially vigilant in markets and other crowded places like ports and train stations.

Pick-pocketing and purse-snatching are more of a problem in larger cities, but there has been a few incidents in Vientiane. Some thieves approach on motorcycles, grab your belongings and race off before you’ve realized what’s happened. If you ride in a cyclo (pedicab) do not hold your bag in your lap. Sit on it! Wearing valuable jewellery (especially necklaces that can be easily grabbed) is not advisable.

Use common sense and don’t walk alone after dark. If confronted by a mugger, do not resist. You’re always better off skipping cyclos or motorbike taxis at night; ask your hotel or restaurant to call a reputable taxi firm.

If you choose to ride a motorcycle or bike, wear a helmet. When crossing the street on foot, move at a slow and steady pace. Wearing a seatbelt in Laos is still not common practice – be aware that the vehicles in which

You travel won’t be fitted with seatbelts in accordance with current conventions. In parts of Laos you may have to travel in basic vehicles, occasionally lacking in luxuries such as air conditioning, but just think of it as part and parcel of exploring these untouched exotic destinations!

++ Visa requirements
Visitors can now obtain 30-day tourist visas on arrival at any international borders/ ports. The visas fee varies from US$30-42 per person based on individual’s nationality. Bring payment in US dollars and one passport photo. Please be aware that sometimes there can be long queues at the airport when obtaining a visa on arrival. Even when organizing your own visas from home or other countries, it is a local requirement to provide Trek Indochina with your full passport and visa information prior to entering Vietnam. This is also applicable for the airlines to issue the air-ticket and for the hotels to prepare the check-in procedure.

++ Airport arrivals
Please look for the welcome sign with your name and your guide will lead you to the car.

++ Airport security
Please be aware that our courtesy check in service is now limited due to the current world security climate. Some airports will stipulate that you must check in your own bags. We thank you for your understanding on this matter.

++ Luggage allowance
LAOS AIRLINES (no business class available)
Checked baggage - 20kg per person
Cabin baggage - 5kg per person

Excess baggage charge: US$1 per kg for domestic flights and US$2 per kg
for international flights.

BANGKOK AIRWAYS (no business class available)
Checked baggage - 20kg per person
Cabin baggage – 5kg per person
Excess baggage charge: US$ 4-5 per kg

VIETNAM AIRLINES (no business class available for flights operating
from Laos on VN airlines)
Checked baggage - 20kg per person
Cabin baggage – 7kg per person
Excess baggage charge: at US$ 2-3 per kg

++ Airport tax
Airport tax for both domestic and international flights is included in the ticket price

  ++ Immunizations
The following immunizations are recommended for travelers in Southeast Asia. Consult your doctor or local health department to discuss which ones you need:

Diphtheria and tetanus: Combined vaccinations for these two diseases are usually given in childhood and should be boosted every ten years.

Hepatitis A: Vaccination provides immunity for up to ten years and involves an initial injection followed by another six months to one year later. Typhoid: Vaccination takes the form of an injection or capsules.

Meningococcal Meningitis: This vaccine is only recommended for travelers making extended visits to rural, northern Vietnam. Protection lasts for three years.

Rabies: People making longer trips to remote areas should consider rabies vaccination, which involves three injections over a period of three to four weeks.

Japanese B Encephalitis: People on trips of a month or more to areas suffering from recent outbreaks should consider getting this vaccine, which involves three shots over one month.

= = Please note that while malaria is still rare, dengue fever is another disease carried by mosquitoes which is on the increase and commonly contracted by travelers. Although cases usually do not require hospitalization, catching dengue would still ruin your trip. There is no immunization available for the virus – just make sure you always sleep beneath a mosquito net in open-style rooms, and always apply mosquito repellent, especially near water, as dengue mosquitoes bite during the day.

++ Travel insurance
Trip insurance is highly recommended and please contact www.travelexinsurance. com for further information. Nobody should travel abroad without travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, hospital costs and repatriation. You may also wish to purchase a policy to cover lost and stolen belongings.

We also advise that you check carefully policies for trip insurance before purchasing in the event of a cancellation or change to the itinerary, either for personal reasons or due to local events (e.g. adverse weather conditions, flight delay) the extra costs are covered.

++ Money matters
The Laotian currency, the Kip, is worth about 10,000 to one US Dollar. Dollars are widely accepted, as are Thai Baht.

Cashing traveler’s cheques is difficult outside Vientiane and Luang Prabang. The only ATM in Vientiane is reserved for customers of La Banque Pour Le Commerce Exterior Lao on Fa Ngum Road. If you have a debit card you can withdraw cash at this bank for a 3.5 per cent commission. Better still, bring enough cash to last your stay.

++ Electricity
Laos has 220V, 50Hz electricity. As both two-prong and fl at pins are in use you would be wise to bring an adaptor.
In all countries protect sensitive electronic equipment like laptops from power fluctuations by using a surge-protector.

++ Country code
+ 856

++ Mobile phones
Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Burma all use a GSM mobile phone network. It is easy to purchase a pre-paid SIM card in Laos – just make sure your phone is unlocked to accept SIMs from other networks, or buy another handset. Handsets are cheaper in Thailand and Vietnam.

++ Time zones
Laos operates on Greenwich meantime +7 hours, so at 12:00 midday in Laos, it will be 05:00am in London; 00:00 am (midnight) in New York; 23:00 (the previous day) in Chicago; 21:00 (the previous day) in Los Angeles. Please note Laos does not have daylight saving hours.

++ Internet
Popular tourist destinations in Laos also offer easy Internet access.

++ Tipping
Below are some suggested tipping guidelines

* For party 01 – 06 passengers
- Driver about US$ 10 per day per party
- Guide about US$15-20 per day per party
- Porter about US$ 5 per time per party
- Restaurant about US$ 5 – US$ 10 per party
- Boat cruise about US$ 20 per party

* For group 07 – 14 passengers
- Driver about US$ 10 – 15 per day per group
- Guide about US$20 – 30 per day per group
- Porter about US$ 10 per time per group
- Restaurant about US$ 10 – 15 per group
- Boat cruise about US$ 30 per group

* For group of 15 passengers up
- Driver about US$ 20 – 25 per day per group
- Guide about US$30 – 40 per day per group
- Porter about US$ 15 per time per group
- Restaurant about US$ 15 – 20 per group
- Boat cruise about US$ 40 per group
Higher-end restaurants will often add a service charge of five to ten percent to the bill. While tips are not expected in more casual restaurants and bars they are appreciated - wait staff earn very low wages.

++ Shopping & shipping
Laos is still developing, and so its people can be very persistent when trying to make money, especially around tourists whom they perceive as very wealthy. People will try to overcharge you, but rather than becoming irritated, join the game and bargain hard! It is also recommendable to check prices of the same items in the neighborhood before reaching a deal.

If you being followed by street vendors and do not wish to make a purchase, often the best course of action is say “no” firmly and politely, and continue on your way. Do not hesitate or linger, as this will encourage the seller to try and engage you further.

If you choose to ship items home, we highly recommend that you buy shipping insurance and check the policy details. As shops are not responsible for damages incurred en route, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Trek Indochina cannot accept responsibility for any misrepresented or faulty goods. We do not take responsibility for following up on merchandise
that you choose to ship home.