Laos travel information|Laos visa|cost of living in Laos

Where Is Laos

2011-10-27T13:50:00.000+07:00

Lao is a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia, bordered by Burma and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west. Laos is a mountainous country, especially in the north.

Where is Laos - Area

Laos has area of 236,800 square kms, a fraction of which is mountains and plateaus. Laos has population of 6.5 million. About 85% of the populations are rural residents and the 1999 annual official population poll said that there were 60.000 more women than men. The average population density is 21 per square kilometer.

Where is Laos - Population

Laos is the lowest populated of the Indochinese countries. The scenery is centered by mountains, jungles and Mekong River, which runs for 1,800km along the western border of the country. A devoutly Buddhist country, Laos has exposed to give travelers with a chance to experience the variety, lifestyle and natural charm of the nation.

Where is Laos - Cremate

Most of the year is warm and humid. Laos has three unique seasons- the dry or cool Season will come the end of October carry on till February, with cooler weather and decreased humidity. Typical temperature might fall to 12 or 14 celcius. Summer from March to June, with temperature up to 40 celcius. Rainy during June to October with cloudy days and may through August. The average annual temperature 29 celcius varying in Vientiane and 35 celcius in April to 20 celcius in December or January.

Time in Laos is 7 hours Greenwich Mean time (GMT * 7)

There is unquestionably an increasing visitor trail in Laos, but that just indicates there are many roads in places you can make your own trail. After all, fifty percent the fun of exploring here is in the journey alone - the people you meet. are very friendly.

Laos is Prosperous in culture, rich in history, full of Buddhism, rich in rivers, mountains and forests ... Laos is a place of imagination and adventure amid a diverse and very friendly people.

Learn Lao Conversation

2011-04-07T10:20:00.000+07:00

Conversation on the telephone

Sam: Hello. May I speak to Danny please? = Hello khor lom kub Danny nea
Danny’s dad: Who’s calling? = Man phai nor
Sam: = Sam na
Danny’s dad: Please wait = Ta bud neung
Sam: Ok = Jao
Danny: = Hello

Sam: Hello Danny, this is Sam = Hello Danny, nee man Sam na
Danny: Hi Same, what’s up? = Sabaidee Sam, mee yang bor
Danny is not here: Danny bor yu
When will Danny be back? Danny shi kub ma ton dai/yam dai
That’s all, bye: Thor nee der, lagon
Can you please tell him that I called? Bork lao dai bor wa khoi tho ha
Can you ask him to call me back? Bork lao tho kub ha khoi dai bor
My phone no. is : Ber tho khoi man
Wrong number: Tho pid

Direction in Lao

Where is….? = Yu sai
I want to go…. = Khoi yak pai
Toilet = Hong num
Airport = Sa-nam bin
Train Station = Sa ta ni Lod Fai
Which way? = Pai tang dai
Left = Sai
Right = Kwau
Straight = Sue
Is it far? = Kai bor
Yes, it is far = Kai
No, it isn’t far = Bo Kai
Floor = Sun
1st floor = Sun neung
2nd floor = Sun song
How much is it to go to morning market? = Pai ta lat sao thor dai

Travel to Pakse Champasack

2010-12-21T22:13:00.000+07:00

Champasack is considered as the center of the economy, arts, culture and history in the southern part of Laos, and is home to world famous natural tourist attractions.

There are many local tribes in Champasack, such as Lao Loom, Khmer and Mon-Khmer. Champasak also preserves its unique arts and culture that differs from Luang Prabang and Vientiane, making a long drive worthwhile.

There are many famous attractions such as Wat Phu Palace, featuring Cambodian architecture built in the same area as Angkor Wat and Nakhon Thom. It has been awarded as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2001, Lao's second after Luang prabang city.

The famous natural attraction is the Khonpa peng waterfall, which is the largest waterfall in Laos and nick name as the "Niagara of Asia". There is also Li Phi that has swift current and is located on Don Det with as many as 4,000 small islands that bring the name "Si Phandon".

Once in Champasak, one must not miss the chance to go and see the Pa Kha fresh water dolphin. To get there, you take high way No.13 south to approximately Km.154(5 km further down from the Khon Pa Peng waterfall). Then turn right and drive another 6 km into Ban Wern Kham port. You need to leave the vehicles there and here and rent a boat to the Lao-Cambodia border for 10 minutes. Here's the area Pa Kha lives, and you may have to pay 10,000 kips entry fee to see the dolphins closely.

Champasak district is located in the southern part of Laos and is 600 km away from Vientiane. The road is quite good and there are not as many mountain roads as in the northern part of the country.

Learn Some Lao Words

2010-11-12T11:40:00.001+07:00

It would be a great benefit if you know some Lao words whether you travel to Laos or living here. below are some basic words you should know

The Lao word for color is “See”. It’s a must to say see first before you name any color for example White is “ See Khao” in Lao

Below are list of color

1.    White = See kow
2.    Yellow= See Lueang
3.    Orange= see som (or you can say see num mark kieng)
4.    Red= see daeng
5.    Blue= see fa
6.    Pink= see bua
7.    Beige= see keem

Counting in Lao language

One = Neung
Two= Song
Three= Sam
Four = see
Five= ha
Six= hok
Seven =jed
Eight= pad
Nine=kao
Ten= sib
Eleven=sib et
Twelve= sib song
Thirteen = sib sam
Fourteen = sib see

Once you can count to eleven then the rest is a piece of cake. When you count till 11 then the next is 10+ 2 (sib song), 10+3(sib sam), 10+4 (sib see),…
Twenty is sao and twenty one is sao et. Then it comes to the same formula as above for example
20+2 (sao song), 20+3(sao sam),…
Thirty is sam sib
Fourty is see sib
By now you can count all the way to one hundred
50=5 X 10 (ha sib)
60=6 X 10 (hok sib)
70=7 X 10 (jed sib)
80=6 X 10 (pad sib)
90=6 X 10 (kao sib)

One hundred= neung hoi
Two hundred= Song hoi
Three hundred= sam hoi
Four hundred= see hoi
Five hundred = ha hoi
Six hundred = hok hoi
Seven hundred = jed hoi
Eight hundred = pad hoi
Nine hundred = kao hoi
One thousand = neung pan

Days of the week

Monday= van chan
Tuesday= van khan or you can say van ang khan
Wednesday= van phoud
Thursday= van phahud
Friday= van souk
Saturday= van sao
Sunday= van tid

Months of the year

January   = mung kon
February= kum pa
March= mee na
April= may sa
May= peaud sa pa
June=mi thu na
July= kor la kod
August= Sing ha
September= kun ya
November= pha jik
December= tan wa

How to Get English Teaching Job in Laos

2010-10-14T13:52:00.000+07:00

Laos is not like Thailand, Taiwan other places that English teaching jobs are advertised via various sources like internet, newspapers and so on.

Where to find English teaching jobs in Laos.

1. Internet.
If you look for teaching job in Laos on internet you’ll find a few to nothing, sometimes those jobs are out of date already so forget about internet when you are looking for teaching positions in Laos.

2. Newspaper.
There’s only English Newspaper in Laos which called Vientiane Times. Sometime schools or other organizations advertise jobs there but it’s every now and then. It’s not a secure place to look for job.

3. Look by yourself.
You need to find English schools and apply for job by yourself. You can both go to schools directly and give your CV there or by sending your hard copy of CV to the schools. This way works for many people who teach English in Laos. Don’t forget to leave your contact information like telephone numbers and this. Some of the schools you apply will eventually call you for interview. It’s a good start.

Here are list of English schools in Laos that hire English teachers. Some school requires degrees and other teaching certificates. Be preparing for all documents you have. Some schools hire only native English speakers so if you are native English speakers with a degree, you have better chances than others.

1. Kiettisack International School.
Usually they look for teacher before school year start on September. This school require only native English speaker with appropriate degrees and teaching qualifications. They open positions for other subjects too such as math, Chemistry, Computer and so on. You can find their website here: http://www.kiettisack.com/school/employment.html.

2.Vientiane International School.
They also need only native English speakers with proper degrees and qualifications. You can send CV and other relevant certificates to them. And here’s their website:
http://vislao.com/content/view/386/217/

3. Eastern Star Bilingual School.
http://www.esbs.edu.la/
You can see in one section of the website that wrote: Please fill up the job application form and send to: esbslao@gmail.com or infoesbs@esbs.edu.la

4. Panyathip International School.
http://pbslao.gmlao.com/

5. JS school
    294 NongboneSt Nongbone Vientiane Cap.
    Vientiane Cap., Lao PDR
    Tel: +856 20 7810547

6. Lao Top College.
http://laotop.net/laotop/index.php/contact-us.html

7. Lao-Singapore Business College
http://lsbcollege.net/

8. Vientiane College
http://www.vientianecollege.com/

9. Lao-American College.
     http://www.lac.edu.la/

10. Sharon School
       http://www.sharoneschool.com/

Lao New Year

2010-07-16T13:52:00.000+07:00

Lao new year means season of change from dry turn to rainy season. Generally, 14 15 16th of April are fixed for celebrating the festival during 5th Lao Month, so it called in another name that 5th Lao Month festival.

Background of 5th Lao Month festival: When the time changes into 5th Lao Month like April, the weather will be rather hot, people is easily sick and ill.

Watering the body, wishing each other is the idea of Lao philosopher since the Ancient time, in order to make relatives happy. And there is a story narrated in the past that: a pair of millionaires got married many years but they hadn't any child, so they vowed the Xay tree. The tree pitied them and it beg for the child from Brahma, so he send Mr. Thammabankoumman to be born. When the Thammabankouman was born, grew up and finsihed Tri-genders course and became a teacher, he is famous far away to Kabinlaphom, he heard the rumor Thammabankouman is omniscient, so he came to challenge and ask 3 questions such as: Where is people's sign in the morning? Where is people's sign in the afternoon? Where is people's sign in the evening?. He gave Thammabankouman within 7 days for answeing such questions and he fixed that if the questions doesn't have answer, the Thammabankouman will be decapitated, and if know the answer, he will be beheaded the same. Finally, because Thammabankouman knew animals'languages, prior to the appointment, he got the answer fromconveration ofa pair of birds on palm tree while them staying under the tree that: in the morning, the sign of people is the face, so people wash their face every morning. In the afternoon, a sign of people is chest, so people wash chest or take a bath in the afternoon. In evening, the sign of people is feet, so people wash feet before going to bed. When 7 day is due, Kabinlaphom came to listen the answer from Thammabankouman and accepted the 3 answers are correct and defeated for decapitating, before beheading, he called his 7 daughters and asked them to use the tray to obtain the head, because the people believe that if place the head on the earth, it will cause the fire. If throw away above, it will cause the drought. If drop in the water, the water will be4 dry. Therefore, he told his seven daughters to use the tray support the head and place in the cave. Every year his 7 daughters will change the shift to sprinkle and perfume their father's head in order to make the country happy. So that there's Miss. Sang Khan contest each year.

Nowadays, Lao New Year is the traditional festival continues every year. Activities celebration is to sprinkle the Buddha, monk, elderly people and watering each other. As the same time, There is Nang Sang Khan Palace procession, which means the seven daughters of King Kabinlaphom.

Best Places to go Shopping in Laos

2010-06-10T14:26:00.000+07:00

When you visit Laos, you must go shopping as they are plenty of products available with a reasonable prices and the products you may not find anywhere else in the world. Below are popular shopping places in Laos.

1. Talatsao Mall or Morning Market in Vientiane.

Talatsao mall in a center shopping center for Lao and tourists. This is a must see place. You can choose plenty of souvenirs there.

There are plenty of products from local handicrafts, Jewelry, Goldsmith, Silver Wares, Painting, Wood Craving to Lao Music of Tradition Folk and Modern Fashion Hits, Books. Fashion Dresses, Shoes, Travel Bags. There is also a food court in the 3rd floor with many choices such as Lao, Thai, Vietnamese and Indian Foods. You can visit http://www.talatsaomall.com/ for more information.

2. Lao ITECC(Lao International Trade Exhibition And Convention Center) in Vientiane.

Lao ITECC is a biggest place for trade Exhibition in Laos. The trade fair is hold 1 to 2 times a month with plenty of products from various countries such as Lao, Thailand, Vietnam, and China. There is a supermarket, which called Tang Freres Lao Supermarket.

It's a popular place for local lao as there are many entertainment facilities such as bowling, movie theater, snooker clubs, karaoke. There's golf court outside. You can see more information about ITECC here http://www.lao-itecc.la/

3. Night Market in Luangprabang.

This is a must see night market in Laos, you shouldn't miss this market when you visit Luangprabang. There are load of handicrafts such as textiles, clothing, carvings, and a lot more. You will be amazed of wide varieties of stuffs you have never seen anywhere else. The market is open every day from 5 to 10 or 11 pm.

Apart from the 3 places I mentioned above, there are still plenty of shops and boutiques in the tourists area. You can easily find those shops when you walk around the cities of Vientiane and Luang prabang. You can also visit local markets. It would be some kind of new experience.

7 Best Restaurants in Vientiane forTourists

2010-06-08T22:26:00.003+07:00

If you has no idea where to eat in Vientiane. Below are list of restaurants you may enjoy.

1. Khop Chai Deu Resturant

Khop chai deu meaning thank you in Lao. They serve Lao food, Thai food, Chinese food, Indian food, and western food. They also have set menus and buffet in second floor. If you go to restaurant, you wouldn't see many lao customers, there are many backpackers and tourists and expats.

Address: 54 Setthathirat Rd, Nam Phou, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.

Tel: +856-21 251564, Catering Service: +856-20 5619107

Email: info@khopchaideu.com

Website: http://www.khopchaideu.com/

2. Sabaidee Restaurant

They serve mixture of Lao, other asian and western food.

Address:36 Setthathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos

Tel:+856 21 214 278

3. Nazim Restaurant

This is Indian restaurant. They serve authentic recipes from north and south India. Halal food is also catered for and the menu is finely balanced between vegetarian and meat dishes.

Address: Fa-ngoum Rd (Mekong), Vientiane, Laos

Tel: +856 21 223 480

Website: http://www.nazim.laopdr.com/

4. Kualao Restaurant

They serve Lao food. They have Lao music and traditional Lao dance at night. There are also VIP rooms available.

Address: 141 Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos.

Tel: +856 21215 777

Email: lovelytouty@yahoo.com

Website: http://www.kualao.laopdr.com/

5. Le Silapa Restaurant

Le Silapa is a high standard restaurant in Vientiane. They serve french cuisine.

Address: 17/1 Th Sihom, City Centre

Tel: +856 21 219689

6. Full Moon Cafe

There serve lao, thai, chinese, vietnamese, and indian foods. There are plenty kinds of foods you can select.

It's a relaxed place to eat.

Address: François Nginn Rd , Vientiane, Laos

Phone:+856 21 243373

7. Sticky Fingers Cafe and Bar

They serve western food. It's a place for expats to hang out.

Address: 10/3 François Nginn Rd, Vientiane, Laos

Tel: +856 21 215 972

Luang Prabang hopes for Lao visitors at Pi Mai

2010-04-12T21:10:00.003+07:00

(Vientiane Times)Luang Prabang's tourism office yesterday encouraged Lao people to visit the World Heritage Site after more than 50 Thai tour operators cancelled visits to the province in the last few days.

Luang Prabang Tourism Department Deputy Director Khamtan Somphanvilay said yesterday that the cancellations were due to the recent political unrest in Bangkok.

“However, we still want to encourage local people to travel within Laos. Hotel and guesthouse bookings are down to 75 percent after the cancellations,” he said.

He said that encouraging Lao people to see more of Laos would also help preserve national culture and traditions as well as promoting local tourism sites.

“We are now also facing a water shortage, so some hotels, guesthouses and homes don't have enough water. This is because the water level in the Nam Khan River is very low, which we haven't seen before,” he said.

“However, visitors and local people shouldn't worry about having enough water for New Year celebrations, because we will ask trucks to bring in water from other areas, while local people who have pick-up trucks can carry water from the Mekong and other waterways in the town.”

He added that the government was trying to find the funds to improve the water supply in the province, which would be costly.

In any case, New Year celebrations, particularly the cultural and traditional activities, will go ahead as scheduled, he said.

The programme of activities starts on April 10 and ends on April 19.

April 10 will see the opening of a trade fair in the morning at the Thatluang esplanade. On the evening of April 11 there will be performances by Lao and international singers.

The Nang Sangkhane competition and traditional performances will be held from 7.30 to 11.30pm on April 12 and 13. On April 14, a lolath (traditional market or street fair) will run from 6am to 12 noon. In the afternoon of the same day, people will gather by the river to build sandcastles, hold a baci ceremony and take part in sports competitions at Xiengman village in Chomphet district.

On April 15, there will be a visit by a group from a Lue cultural village, who will perform a show symbolising the life of the village, as well as a baci ceremony. This will be attended by leaders and visitors throughout the morning. In the afternoon, there will be a vor parade which will highlight Buddhist and Lao traditions and will run from Vat Thatnoy to Vat Xiengthong.

On April 16, leaders and local and overseas visitors will attend an almsgiving ceremony at the Royal Palace Museum in the early morning. In the afternoon, the vor procession will parade back to Vat Thatnoy from Vat Xiengthong. In the evening, there will be a procession of nagas, lanterns and traditional performances.

On April 17, leaders, laypeople and the general public will gather to accompany the revered Prabang Buddha image as it is carried from the Royal Palace Museum to Vat Mai Souvannaphoum, where it will be on display for worship. Other traditional activities will also take place on this day.

On April 18, the public will be able to pour perfumed water over the Prabang Buddha and enjoy various traditional performances.

On the last day of the programme, local authorities, laypeople and visitors will line the street as the Prabang Buddha image leaves the temple and is returned to the museum in the morning.

By Panyasith Thammavongsa

That Luang festival mixes culture and business

2009-10-29T09:47:00.001+07:00

The trade fair associated with the annual That Luang Festival officially opened yesterday in a ceremony attended by government officials and business representatives.

Vice President Bounnhang Vorachit, Standing Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad and Vientiane Mayor Sombath Yialiher were among those in attendance.

The trade fair takes place in two venues. The That Luang esplanade accommodates 1,411 booths from October 28 to November 2, while Lao-ITECC with 778 booths is open from October 24 to November 2.

The trade fair is a lively part of the festival, bringing together a wide range of domestic products as devotees come from all over the country to worship at the grand stupa.

Vientiane Vice Mayor Somvandy Nathavong said the festival was a wonderful opportunity to preserve Lao traditions and display the rich and diverse cultural identity of Laos .

On this occasion people of ethnic groups from all over Laos come to worship at this most magnificent of festivals.

Mr Somvandy said the festival would give security units the chance to prove their worth in ensuring safety for everyone and preventing accidents.

Amid a joyful atmosphere, various activities serve to preserve the country's fine traditions.

As happens every year, people take part in a colorful wax castle procession, watch a traditional game of hockey, and process around the stupa in a grand candlelight procession.

This year the festival will give city authorities ideas on how best to celebrate the 450th anniversary of Vientiane as the capital of Laos next year.
http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/FreeContent/Free_That.htm

Do’s and don’t in Lao culture- showing respect for Lao religion and culture

2009-10-13T09:15:00.008+07:00

With the increasing number of people visiting Laos every year, it is very important to know what you should do or shouldn’t. Foreign travelers may find it difficult to navigate the cultural norms of Lao culture. It is also important to consider what might be offensive to the Lao people.

Show respect and use your head and eyes and common sense will guide you well in navigating Lao culture safely.

When in Laos, try to do as the Lao do and remember; don’t touch head, don’t lose your temper with people and don’t flash your fresh. The rest is about manners, shoes left outside, accepting hosts, greeting and not upsetting religious feelings.

The Lao are very friendly and hospitable and a minimum effort will make your trip smooth and memorable. Respect the culture and you will earn its respect in turn.

Welcome

Instead of checking hand, Lao use “Nop” to greet people. The Nop is a short bow done with raising your hands in a praying gesture. The higher you go the more respect you show, but don’t be over the top. A kiss or embrace from a stranger is insulting and humiliating.

Feeling in public

Public display of affection is taboo in Lao society so don’t cause shock or embarrassment by kissing or cuddling in front of people. Modest dress and discreet behavior will ensure you don’t attract unwanted attention or embarrass others.

Foot and Head

In Buddhism and general Asian society, the head is very important to the souls and its purity, while the feet walk the earth and all that is deposited on it. Raising your feet to headheight, putting them on furniture or pointing with them is taken as a deliberate insult or sign of barbarism. Don’t gesture with your feet or touch an Asian head. You would be asking for trouble. Here, as in all things, check out what local people do with their feet and shoes and try to follow suit.

Shouting

Never raise your voice to Lao people as they never react well to it. Even shouting to friends or for taxis will cause shock and worry. Lao is a land of calm and patience, and shattering the peace will do you no favors.

Appearance

Bodily hygiene and cleanliness are of the highest standard in Lao and a visitor’s failure to meet these standards is not well received. Wash yourself and your clothes daily or prepare to be laughed at and avoided!

In a Lao House

Shoes are generally no-go indoors. Use your eyes and common sense to maximize your chances of social success. Keep your head and general profile low at gatherings.

Environment

You will rarely be alone in Laos, even when you seem to be, and pollution is not well received. Bins are scarce, so use your plastic bags to return rubbish to towns or villages.

Drugs

The penalties may be severe for you and even worse for the Lao society.

Religion

Religion is a major part of daily life and remains the practice of the massive majority. Show respect in temples and shrines, watching how locals behave in such place. Dress neatly when visiting temples and religious shrines. You should never go shirtless, or in short, miniskirts or hot pants. It is acceptable to wear shoes when walking around a temple compound, but not inside the chapel where the principle Buddha image is kept. Visitors are welcome to relax and be peaceful in all temples. Every Buddha image is regarded as a scared object, no matter how big, small, old or new. Never climb onto a Buddha image to take a photograph or do anything which might indicate a lack of respect.

Keep your head lower than the Buddha and monks. Buddhist priests must not be touched by a woman or to accept anything from the hand of one. If a woman gives anything to a monk, she first hands it to a man, who then presents it. Don’t turn your back on a Buddha.

Lao Airlines Special Discount for International Routes

2009-09-14T11:06:00.003+07:00

Laos Airlines has announced a new promotion effective July 21 to October 28, 2009 for international routes.

Vientiane - Bangkok(VTE BKK) one way 105 USD, return 189 USD.

Vientiane - Hanoi(VTE HN) one way 110 USD, return 200 USD.

Vientiane - Siem Reap one way 137 USD, return 263 USD.

Vientiane - Kunming one way 137 USD, return 263 USD.

Luang Prabang - Chiang Mai one way 100 USD, return 179 USD.

Luang Prabang - Bangkok one way 126 USD, return 242 USD.

Luang Prabang - Hanoi one way 105 USD, return 200 USD.

Luang Prabang - Siem Reap one way 158 USD, return 294 USD.

Luang Prabang - Udone Thani one way 79 USD, return 147 USD.

Savannakhet - Siem Reap one way 114 USD, return 209 USD.

Savannakhet - Bangkok one way 95 USD, return 179 USD.

Thanks source from http://www.laoairlines.com/
http://www.blogcatalog.com/

Learn Lao Language

2009-08-24T09:11:00.004+07:00

When you visit Laos it is always good to learn some words. You probably won't need to use much if you travel to only the main tourist areas. However, the lao people you meet will be impressed if you try to use a little Lao with them. Here are some Lao words you should know if you travel to Laos

"Sabaidee" that is how we say Hello in Lao.

How are you = Sabaidee bor (Lao)

I am fine = khoi sabaidee (Lao)

I am not feeling very well = khoi bor sabai (Lao)

I am sorry = Kaw tode

Never mind/ you are welcome = Bor pen yang

Thank you = khop jai (Lao)

Can you speak Lao = Jao wao pasa lao dai bor (Lao)

Can you speak English = Jao wao pasa angkit dai bor (Lao)

My name is.... = khoi sue wa......

What is your name = Jao sue yang

Nice to meet you = Yin dee ti dai hu jak jao

Yes = Chao

No = Bor

I am hungry = khoi hew

I am full = khoi im

I want to eat = khoi yark kin

I want to go.... = Khoi yark pai....

I've got a headache = Khoi jeb hua

I've got a stomachache = Khoi jeb tong

I like Laos = Khoi mak Muang Lao

I like Lao people = Khoi mak kon lao

I don't want to go back home = Khoi bor yark kub baan

You are very beautiful = Jao ngam lai

I really like you = khoi mak jao tae tae

Do you want to go out with me = Jao yark pai tiaw kub khoi bor

Do you want to go see a movie with me = Jao yark pai berng nang kub khoi bor

I enjoy talking to you = khoi mak lom kub jao

I love you = khoi huk jao

Lao culture

Questions and answers about traveling to Laos

2009-08-12T09:51:00.005+07:00

1. I am soon going to travel up to Luang Prabang and from there I would like to travel by land to Hanoi. What is the best way to do this ? If possible I would like to avoid going back to Vientiane.

Answer: The best way to do this overland is going to Hanoi from Vientiane but since you want to avoid Vientiane you can go via XiengKhouang Province.

2. We are thinking of staying in Vientiane for 3 days at the Lao Orchid Hotel or the Le Calao Hotel. Which would you recommend?Also like to stay 5 days in Luang Prabang at the Le Calao Hotel or something similar but must have pool, any recommendations? Also could you please send me some information on tours and things to see and do in both places?

Answer: I would recommend Lao Orchid Hotel, it’s a good hotel, you can check review on internet, many people thinks the same as me. For Luang Prabang I would recommend grand hotel. You can check information on tours and things to see and do following these links:
http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours.html
http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours-luang-prabang-itinerary.html

3. I am visiting laos for 6 days starting next week. i am wondering whether i can rent a car with an English speaking driver for 3-4 days. How much will that cost? i would like to travel to LP and Van Vieng and whatever places in between.

Answer: You can rent a car with a driver, about the price, it depends on where you want to go. The price for city tour is USD 35 per day but if you traveling to Vangvieng and Luang prabang is quite expensive, they would charge USD 120- USD 150 per day.

4. I will be travelling to Laos from Siem Reap.How to get to Vientiane from Siem Reap? Bus or train? Plan to spend one night at Vientiane and how to travel
to Vang Vieng? Heading to famous Luang Prabang for 2 nights..How to go to Hanoi after Luang Prabang?

Answer: there’s no train from Siem Reap to Vientiane, you can either fly or take bus, taking a flight would be the most convenient, it would take you a very long drive if you choose to go by bus. From Vientiane you can take bus to Vangvieng, it takes about 3-4 hours. There’s direct flight from Luang Prabang to Hanoi.

5. I will be traveling with intrepid travel through Laos to Vietnam. The trip plans for us to travel overland from Vientiane to Hanoi through Lak Sao. I was wondering if this is an interesting route. Since the trip will be hours and hours in a minivan I am thinking maybe it would be preferable to fly from Vientiane to Hanoi. What do you think?

Answer: Yes, flying is the best option.

6. am going to Laos in August. My plan is to first stop in Vientiane and then goes to Luang Prabang. In Luang Prabang, I plan to take my Visa to Vietnam and then head to Hanoi.Could you please advise me on the possibilities for going from Luang Prabang to Hanoi? Bus and Airplane?

Answer: There’s direct flight from Luang Prabang to Hanoi, if you want to go over land you can go back to read question 1, I already answered it there.

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If you have questions about Laos please post your questions here or send me email at traveltolaos@gmail.com. I would be willing to answer to all questions.

Naga Rockets and Wat Phabat Phonesane

2009-08-06T16:36:00.003+07:00

Wat Phabat Phonesane is one of the most important temples and tourist sites in Bolikhamxai province. It is situated km 82 from Vientiane on the left hand side of road N.13 south.

Wat Naganimid phonesane was first build on the right hand side and 2 km from the national road to the Mekong river.

Wat Phabat Phonesane is the Lord of Buddha foot print temple and stupa. It is very beautiful place to visit and worship.

Wat Naganimid was build of the top of the hill and has 100 stairs and surrounded by the big trees which made the temple more attractive.

Wat phabat Phonesane and Wat Naganimid are not the same temples.

There is an old saying which say that Wat Phabat Phonesane place the Lord Buddha sit for lunch, when he arrived from Somphoutavib to teach the Buddha's word. When he looked for a place to sit for lunch, there were no places for him, because everywhere were his former graveyards. because of that, the king of the dragon named Soukahathinak collected the rocks and soils to from the hill for him to have lunch.

After lunch, before he said good bye, the two dragons named Soukahathinak and Sangkalanak requested him to print his foot print as the symbol of Buddhism in Kokchiviengngoua hill which was as far as the shout of an elephant from the place where he took lunch. The Lord Buddha printed his foot print on the rock as we have seen in Wat Phabat Phonesane.

The size of the foot print is 40 cm deep, 120 cm wide and 240 cm length. The nails of the foot are the same length. The images of the wheel, the lotus and one hundred and eight types of animals marked in the central of the foot. It was his right leg and facing to the Mekong river. After the image of the Buddha foot was printed the dragon arranged a religious ceremony then returned to their kingdom.

Since then, at the end of the Buddhist lent, the king of the Naga and his followers have organized rocket festivals to worship the foot print in an annual ceremony. That is because people see the man made rockets lights launched from the land and the river. it is called Bangfai PhaNhanak(The Naga rocket).

Wat means temple, Phabat means foot important person and Phonesane means the hill where Lord Buddha sit for lunch. Unknown another temple on the top of the hill which has 100 stairs called (The dragon conjured the temple) to the Mekong river and green big trees which made the site.

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Boat racing festival and loy Krathong Ceremony

2009-07-31T09:27:00.003+07:00

Maha Sila VIRAVONG wrote in the book of Hidsipong, the twelve customs. This ceremony was performed for thoundsands of years and it was the original ceremony of Brahmanism to worship the god and floating the Loy Krathong. Some countries organize the ceremony from the full moon of the 14-15 in the twelve month to the 1st dark moon of the first month, the same time as in Thailand, Lanna Xiangmai. In Laos, we do not know the exact time because there is of no evidence, but we know the exact time that the illuminate ceremony was officially organized in the king of Soulignavongsa in 1641 as noted by Van Wustop, trade diplomatic from Holland, who met the king of Soulignavongsa in 1641. (His detailed notes is too long, but there is the part of his note on the illuminated boats as written below).

After meeting the King in That Luang festival, the Holland trade diplomatic envoys had an opportunity to see the ceremony on the illuminated fire boats. Van Wustop said: "The king sits on a seat made of gold. the king saw the illuminated fire boats. We were sitting close to the King camp. The ceremony was organized on the Mekong river. There was one bamboo pole. It was high as the pole at the head of the ship on the sea. Four men climbed up and jumped down to the river to show people. The four men could be injured or hurt.

When it was dark, more than two hundred fire boats were running down along the Mekong. Among these, there were three illuminated fire boats which had fire like the four square stupas. These made the river bright. After the ceremony was over, the king and his followers and I returned back."

The illuminate ceremony in Vientiane as written in the note of Van Wustop was organized in the twelfth month, after That Luang festival was over. In that time, That Luang festival organized in the 1st dark moon of the twelfth month.

Now the illuminated boats and Loy Kathong ceremony is organized in the full moon of the eleventh mounth. The fire boats are made of forest bamboos and banana trucks. Banana truck sheets are placed on the boats to put kikouang, burning powders for fire lighting. Heua fai Kok, the land fire boat is also made in the yard of the pagoda. The purpose is to make the illuminated boats or Loy kathong or Loykamot, as Brahmanism are made to worship the god and to drive away the sin or the bad luck. In Laos, these are made to worship Lord Buddha, the god of the rivers, the god of the dragons to send the rain to us.

Racing Boats Competition: After the end of the Buddhist lent, at the 1st dark moon of the 11th month, Lao people in the villages, districts and provinces organize racing boats festival along the main rivers such the Mekong, its tributaries and streams, particular in Vientiane municipality, Pakxe, Champasak boats racing was also organized in the 1st dark moon of the eleventh month, except in Luang Prabang where people organized in the nine month and at the same time of Boun Hokhaopadabdine(worship the food for the deads), because Luang Prabang uses Namkane river so in the middle of this month Namkane river level is high enough for the racing boats competition.

Raing boats and the end of the Buddhist lent are organized concurrently, but the day for boats racing, old and young gather to see whose boat will be the champion and on this occation there are chanting team in boats, on the roads and pagoda yards and having fun.

Usually, the boat racing purpose was the social sport to gather friends and to worship the Lord of Buddha, the rivers and the god of the dragon. It was not rowed for a prize but small gifts were given as incentives.

Lao culture

Buddhist Lent End

2009-07-30T09:10:00.006+07:00

After performing the Buddhist lent for three months, in the rainy season starting from the 1st dark moon of the eight month to the 1st dark moon of the the eleven month, the closing ceremony is organized. Firstly, the performance of buddhist lent activities is the responsibilities of the monks, not the lay people.
There after, the form of the ceremony change as the villagers decide to prepare the offerings for merit making. So in the morning of the fifteen day of the eleventh month, the villagers take the offerings to the temples and listen to Buddha's teachings while the candles ceremony, light worshipping, and fire boat festivities are performed in the evening.
In the next day, the 1st dark moon of the eleven month, boat racing is organized on the Mekong river.
The Buddhist Lent closing ceremony is performed in the same way as the beginning of Buddhist Lent, Boun Hokaopradabdine and Boun khao Sark or Salark. At the festival day Buddhist villagers, dressed in new and beautiful clothes take the silver bowl of plateful of food and materials to offer the monks for merit making.

How to organize the ceremony: The term "Watsa" means the rain or rainy season. The monks complete the practices of Buddha teachings during the period of three months in the rainy season without spending any nights in other places. On the 1st day of the dark moon of the eleventh month the closing ceremony for Buddhist Lent should be arranged. But, in practice, it is organized in the full moon of the fifteen in the eleventh month, one day before the due date. In the Buddha's teaching, the closing ceremony was instead made after three months of Buddhist Lent ended. So, in practice the monks made Palavana on the evening of the full moon of the fifteen in the eleven month. It is one day before the real closing date.

The term Pavalana means to announce something in advance or warn or advise each other for example when the villagers say to the monks in advance that " if the monks need to have the 4 main factors such as; clothing, bedding, medicines or something else, please advise us." This also means Pavalana. It's to say something to do in advance.

Pavalana is the task of the monks violate the Buddhist rules, they should warn each other. The reason that the Lord of Buddha allowed the monks to give advise is that when the monks stay together during the Buddhist Lent in the same place it would a few of them might behave badly or make mistakes. After the Buddhist Lent ends, they warn or advice each other before leaving. This means "Pavalana."
To conduct the ceremony for Pavalana, the oldest monk has make a decision first. He may say three, two times or one. Then the others say like him or saying one by one. The words are said in Pali language. it means that " To you all the monks, please listen to me today is the full moon day. It is the day to give prior notice that we have completed the Buddha practice."

in front the others in After the decision is made, the oldest monk sits on his knees, joins his hands and says Pavalanapali language: " To you all the monks, may I notice you in advance and do not in doubt that I made mistakes or sins caused by a breach of the rules of the monastic order(Patimakkha), please warn me, to change my bad behaviour for proper behaviour acting." Then all the monks have to say the same words until its completion. The monks who completed the Buddhist Lent, can again Anisong 5, merit making.

Illuminate ceremony: an illuminate ceremony is the custom of Brahmanism to worship the gods whose names are; the God of Pha Phom(Brahman), the God of Pha Ixuan, and the God of Pha Nalai(Vishnu). Illuminated boats made of bamboo trucks. The oil for the lights screened from the cow fats. After the lamp making the lamp, it was fixed on the top of the pole which is about of 10 Wa high, each unit of Wa lenght equivalent to 2 metres (About 20 metres) from the ground of worship the tree gods above. It is organized in the twelve month. After the worshipping period is over. The lamps are sent along the rivers.

The illuminate ceremony begins in the full moon of the 14 or 15 to the 1st day of the dark moon in the eleventh month. They made the fire place in the yard of pagoda. The oil for fire are from the oily fruits namely Marktumka and fix the cotton coils for fire lighting.

The perfume sticks are made of perfume powder called Omnien. Firstly Omnien powder is dried under the sun, then mixed with the coconut skins and covered with paper. It is called Pathub or Phan Thub.

The worship place for perfume sticks lighting is called Vongkotkhili which means the mountain. According with the story of Vetsantala, it was the place where Phravet lived. To perform the lighting perfume sticks ceremony, some pagodas make camps with many complicated and curved roads inside. There is one entrance in and many doors out and curved roads inside. There is one entrance in and many doors out. Entering to this place, some people lost the way out. Therefore the ones who enter to burn the perfume sticks should consider for not forget the way out. It just made for fun.

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Tourist spots in Laos

2009-07-21T10:01:00.010+07:00

Sisavangvong, street of heritage city
Mekong River is a source of food for Lao and people that Mekong gets through. Beside Mekong River Luang Prabang has Nam Kane River as a source of food for Luang Prabang people. There’s a street in Luang Prabang which is also a source of income for Luang Prabang people, that street is Sisavangvong Street, the local night market is located here, and this is the popular market in Luang Prabang , local people in Luang Prabang sell their handicraft, silk, clothes, cloths, drawing pictures, carving stuffs for tourists.

At night is a place to sell stuffs from local people but day time is cultural street for tourists to visit many places such as: former palace, old temples especially Sisavangvong museum (former palace), Wat Xiengthong.

When the time of Lao New Year arrives, this street becomes the street of festival. There are people marches through this street; there are also ceremonies for good bye old year and welcome new year.

This street is very important for Luang Pabang people. It’s one source of income for people who sell stuffs there and it’s also a tourist spot where you shouldn’t miss if you go to Luang Prabang.

Buffalo Horn Mountain
Buffalo Horn Mountain is located 70 km far from Vientiane. Buffalo Horn Mountain is a protected area which has a charming nature and this is a place to find the true Lao way easily.

If you want to be in nature and relax, picnic, camping, boat ride to see nature and animals like tigers, elephants, bears, wolves, monkeys, birds, butterflies and other spices that they are hard to be seen in Laos this is a great place for that.

This mountain is the most beautiful reserve area which covers the area of 2000 square kilometer and the mountain is 1671 meter high which include mountain river, waterfalls straight from east to west 80 km long and 40 km long from north to south.

In 1993, Lao government announced that Buffalo Horn Mountain is a national protected forest area in purpose to reserve this wonderful forest for animals to live forever and it’s a spot for tourists to touch the real Lao nature in this wonderful forest.

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Laos work visa

2009-07-13T10:12:00.005+07:00

If you want to stay longer in Laos, say like 1 year and up you would need 1 year Laos visa, in order to get this kind of visa you must have a job in Laos. The employer will take care of the work permit, once you have 1 year work visa stamped(it is written B2 visa) in your passport then it's easy to apply for work permit and resident card.
Obtaining the Laos work permit, documents needed:
1. Passport
2. B2 visa (1 year visa)
3. Resident card.
4. photos.
In order to get B2 visa, first of all you would need a document from your employer, it's a confirmed document that you're working with the company, your employer should give you that document , if you are in Laos you would need to leave the country and re enter again before they issue you a B2 visa. You would enter Laos with the document provided by your employer and give them at the border crossings or international airports then they would give you B2 visa, you still have to pay fee same as cost of Laos visa on arrival
After you have the B2 visa then it's easy to apply to either work permit or resident card, your employer would take care of that, the fee of resident card is about $90 for the first time but the next time when you extent the cost would lower to $60, the most expensive thing is work permit, the fee is about $240, your employer might pay for you, it depends on agreement between you and your employer. It's pretty easy to get 1 year work visa as long as you have a job in Laos.

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Laos Airlines Announcement

2009-07-09T09:30:00.010+07:00

Pakse airport will close for 2 months.

Referring to the notice of the Department of Lao Civil aviation No. 721/DCA dated 12/06/2009 informing that Pakse Airport will be closed from 1st July to 30th August 09 for its renovation work. Otherwise during this period Lao Airlines flights to/from Pakse will be suspended, thus the Savannakhet Airport will be used for the operations of the flights instead.

We would like then to inform that our previous notice is replaced by this one.
Remark: Passengers who has already bought or reserved his/her ticket for Pakse as destination or as point of departure, Lao Airlines will provide him/her with mini bus service from/to Pakse airport on the day of flight.

(Vientiane times) Champasack province, Pakse Airport will be close from July to the end of August for repairing work.
Mr.Yakua Laopangkao said that some part of the runway was feeling the pressures of several decades’ wear and tear and the country’s tropical climate.

These parts are needed to be fixed to ensure a smooth return to earth for planes, their passenger and cargo.

It’s necessary to for the airport to close temporary due to schedule plan for improvement the airport. The repair work will reconstruct the oldest section of the runway which is showing signs of potholing which cause undue wear and tear on the plane.

To facilitate the construction, the airport would be closed from July 1 to September.

If the construction is facing heavy rain for many days, it would cause delays to the contraction and it wouldn’t be able to finish the work on time. The reason that that chooses this time for renovation is it’s a low travel season so it’s the most suitable time to repair the runway.

Lao airlines will add more flight to Savannakhet airport. People who will fly to Pakse Airport will transfer to Savannakhet airport instead then continue over land to Pakse using public transport or tour services. The flight from Vientiane to Savannakhet normally leaves three times a week but now increase to nine flights per week.

For the passengers already booked on flights for Pakse Airport would be flown to Savannakhet then transferred by Lao airlines chartered bus or Van to Pakse.

It was the responsibility of Lao airlines to serve those passengers to ensure they reached their destination.

For more information please contact Lao airlines office:
Address: pangkham street P.O.Box 6441, Vientiane Lao PDR.
Tel: (+856 21) 212-016.
Fax: (+856 21) 212-058.
Email: info@laoairlines.com
Website: www.laoairlines.com
Once again we do apologize for the changed.

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Laos tourism

2009-07-03T14:56:00.003+07:00

More revolutionary hideouts revealed to public

More caves used by Lao revolutionary figures as hideouts during the struggle for independence have been unveiled to the public.
The Lao national Tourism Authority (LNTA) recently organized a promotional tour to the newly revealed caves in a bit to promote tourism and gather ideas on how to improve historical tourist sites in Viengxay district of Huaphan province.
The opening of the caves will boost Laos tourism numbers in the province and benefits students and researchers of Lao history.
Participants who followed the convoy to the new caves were impressed with the hidden grottoes that were used by officials, soldiers and police during the war as factories, shops, hospitals, schools, meeting places and entertainment areas.
The Viengxay caves in north- eastern Laos are an extensive network of caverns carved out of the limestone mountains. The district, which was stronghold of the Lao people's revolutionary Party of the pathet Laos during the 1960s and 1970s, abounds in caves.
The revolutionary leaders used the protection afforded by mountains to create offices, meeting rooms and shelters for themselves and Laos revolutionary Party members.
Authorities have so far opened only seven caves to the public. These include the living quarters of key leaders such as Mr.Kaysone Phomvihane, Prince Souphanouvong, Mr. Phoumy Vongvichit, Mr. Nouhak Phoumsavanh and Mr. Khamtay Siphndone. LNTA hopes to open all 28 caves to the public in the near future.
Minister to the prime Minister's office and LNTA President, Mr. Somphong Mongkhonvilay, said the hideouts will appeal to visitors from around the world and explain the story of the Lao People's revorutionary Party leaders and the people who fought during the Indochina War.
The authority will exhibit displays describing the lives of officials, soldiers and police so that students and the younger generaton can learn about the nation's history, " he said.
Viengxay is increasingly being visited by foreigners and Lao people, esspecially those iterested in history.
LNTA plans to develop the caves to enable visitors to fully understand the role the site played in the nation's struggle for independence.
Authorities also plan to develop the town of Viengxay into a historical tourist attraction, recapturing revolutionary battles and showcasing the caves, in an effort to draw more foreign tourists t the area.
The developement of the area as a tourist destination is aimed not only at pasing on the ahtonishing story of the revonutionary leaders who lived in the caves, but also at reducing poverty amongst the people og Huaphan province.
It is hoped the development of the sites will significantly boost tourist numbers, which are steadily rising. Viengxay attracted just 400 visitors in 2001 but this had increased to 9,000 by 2009.
LNTA has put a lot of effort into raising funds to develop the Viengxay caves as a tourist attrction. The province is an isolated area and poverty is widespread. Outside support is necessary to develop the province. Mr. Somphong said.
How to get there: a bus from the northern bus terminal in Vientiane takes about sixteen hours to reach Vienxay district in Huaphan province.

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Laos jobs

2009-07-03T13:58:00.011+07:00

1. English teacher wanted: Santisouk Montessori Pre-school

We are looking for an enthusiastic, dedicated and experienced teacher to work with our students, aged 2.5 to 6 years old. We prefer a qualified native English speaking teacher who has experience working with young children; knowledge of Montessori method is an asset.

You'll be joining the team of enthusiastic, creative and experienced 9 Lao teachers and 1 foreign adviser. Application deadline: August 1st. The position will be vacant from 12th of August. Interested to join, please submit cover letter and CV to Marieke before August 1st(Interview will be held the week after). You can bring your CV in person to our school(School is open till July 24th), or send by email to smps@laotel.com. For more information, please read our website or give a call.

Here's the address of the school:
P.O.BOX 5340
Vientiane, Laos P.D.R
Tel: (+856 21) 312-342
Email: smps@laotel.com
Website: www.santisoukmontessori.org
Source: Vientiane times newspaper

2. Volunteers needed: Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times requires volunteers to help with editing. We will bear some basic expenses if required.
Application from organizations as well as individuals are welcome.
Qualification:
- Native English speaker.
- Background in journalism.
- Keen to learn about local culture.
For more information please contact Vientiane Times, Pangkham Rd, Vientiane.
Tel: (+856 21) 216-364, 217-593
Fax: (856 21) 216-365, 252-631
Email: editor@vientianetimes.org.la
Closing date: July, 30, 2009
Source: Vientiane times newspaper

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Hotels in Vangvieng

2009-06-29T14:53:00.005+07:00

Thavisouk Hotel & Resort in Vangvieng Laos
Tel: (+856 23)511-096, (+856 20)760-7111,570-3111,(+856-21)414-149
Fax : (+856 23)511-215
Email: thavonsouk@hotmail.com
Website:www.thavonsouk.com

The Elephant Crossing Hotel
Address: Vang Vieng, Lao PDR
Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng District,
Vientiane Province, Lao PDR.
PO Box 5512,
Vientiane Lao PDR.
Tel/Fax: (+856 23) 511-232
Mobile: (+856 20) 560-2830 or 245-4730
Email: info@theelephantcrossinghotel.com
Website: www.theelephantcrossinghotel.com

Vansana Vang Vieng District
Address: Ban sysavang, Vientiane Province
Tel: (+856 23) 511-598-9, 511-600-1
Fax: (+856-23) 511-602
Email : info@vansanahotel-group.com
Website: www.vansanahotel-group.com

Villa Nam song
Address: Vang Vieng - Laos
Tel: (+856 23) 511-637
Tel/Fax: (+856 23) 511-016
Email: reservation@villanamsong.com
Website: www.villanamsong.com

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Laos Elephant festival in Paklay district

2009-06-23T09:59:00.003+07:00

(From Laos Cultural magazine)-Travel to Laos
Elephant festival is a part of the project for heightening knowledge abut the Lao elephant Association, which was established in the Lao PDR by Elephant Asia. Its purpose is to preserve elephants in Lao PDR, protect the natural heritage and enhance cultural relations between the Lao people and elephants.

The elephant festival was organized on 17-18 February 2007 in Viengkeo village, hongsa distict, Sayaboury province and 46 elephants joined the even. The event is very significant to the Lao people and elephants, who have had close relations of working, fighting and living on this land for a long time. It's the milestone for starting the elephant festival in the following years. In 2008 this event was held in Paklay district, Sayaboury province.

Mr.Bouaphanh Makhaphon, Secretary of the district party Cell Committee, Chef of Paklay District , Sayaboury province 70 elephants from Paklay and Thongmixay districts joined and only good elephant was taken part in this event. Besides the elephant procession, there was acrobatic performances and elephant riding service for tourists, who never ride an elephant but like to try it to view paklay district and Lay riverbank. A team was set up to province tourists with the elephant riding service.

Mr. Bouaphanh Makhaphon told about other activities, saying: "beside the exhibition of goods from businessmen and people, boat racing contest, Phavad festival and rocket festival was organized on 16 February 2008."

This is a good luck of those who attend the festival because they admired nature, lifestyle of the people, the wealth of the area and a part of the culture of people living in paklay district. Moreover, visitors saw ten of beautifully-decorated elephants in the procession, command of the caravan and the use of the elephant labor. Furthermore, there was trade fair, traditional festival and other festive activities, which tourists enjoyed this occasion.

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Luang Prabang first class flight(Tad Sae waterfall)

2009-06-22T15:29:00.004+07:00

Heartbeats and natural highs on jungle journey

(From Vientiane times newspaper) If you’re anything like me, standing on a mountaintop or at the top of a tall building makes your heart beat rapidly and your legs shake, and you dare not move.

A fear of heights is far from rare, but is also a serious business when one is high up in a rain forest canopy.

I had little time to ponder my fate as I prepared to fly like Tarzan through the treetops in Luang Prabang province recently.

Contrary to what you are probably thinking, this was not a case of jungle fever getting the better of me.

The answer came in the form of zip lines, also known as aerial runway, mini cable car, or the mighty flying fox.

Fortunately for myself and others who are vertigo afflicted, cables clip into a harness allowing one to swing along through the forest like a modern day Johnny Weismuller.

There are a total of 19 platforms on this particular nature-soaked 1km journey.

The space between tree platforms starts at 35 meters, and then gets progressively longer.

Between platforms 9 and 10 is the longest gap, a distance of 200 meters.

Based in the treetops around Tad Sae waterfall in Luang Prabang province, the cable run encompasses some breathtaking views.

World heritage-listed Luang Prabang is well known as one of the country’s most popular tourist sites for experience culture.

Yet the province and the area around Tad Sea waterfall in particular rank highly as one of the most attractive sites for experiencing the natural wonders of Laos.

The flight of nature begins 16 km south of Luang Prabang on Northern Road No. 13.

Take a left onto an unsealed red dirt road, and about five minutes later you will read Ann village. Next, take a boat on the Nam khan river for about five minutes to reach the waterfall.

It is usually in full flow from august to March, the best time to view the cascades and take a dip.

Arriving at the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular sight and trees galore. How much water you will see, however, depends on the time of year.
When the water is tumbling over the rocks, the freshness of the scene will relax you.
While that wasn’t the case today, it was still a more than enjoyable trip.

But anyway, back to the task at hand.

After a five minute hike, I was at the start of what promised to be unforgettable journey.

At first, I didn’t dare to swing from a thin cable high above the forest floor, but under pressure from my relative I decided to steal myself for the challenge.

Finally, I decided to join them after being promised that two guide would help me to complete the run in one piece.

Before I knew it, I was strapped in and ready. The first of two guides cruised effortlessly to the next platform, while the other helped us to clip into the harness. My turn was rapidly approaching.

My two relatives took first, leaving a nervous you-know-who attempting to slow his rapidly beating heart. Yet those formerly trustworthy legs of mine would not respond. After no less than seven deep breaths, the encouragement of guides and cajoling of my relatives, I was off.

With my pride at stake, my recalcitrant legs dared to move and before I knew it. I was flying off towards the second platform.

My legs had not yet been cured of the shakes when the guide told me that I now had no choice but to continue.

So I redoubled my courage and set my sights on eventually reaching the 19th and final platform.

While I was busy shaking sweating and agonizing, my two relatives were all smile.

It was clear they were enjoying the challenge of the activity. “It is not difficult,” said one, smiling happily. “It would be even more even more exciting if it was higher”, remarked the other. I have to admit that at this point fratricide crossed my mind.

Yet as I flew from tree to tree on my way to the third and fourth platforms, I was beginning to adjust to the sensation of having nothing beneath my feet.

However, my heart rate gathered pace on the journey from platform 9 to 10, the longest point between footholds.

At this point we had to use a pre-prepared piece of bamboo to help with the braking process.

Our guide for the flight, Mr.Suchat, told us the drill.

“Platform 10 is the only point where most people need some extra braking. Our guide will wait there and call out when you need to brake.”

“ You will pick up quite a bit of speed on this section and if don’t brake you might hit a tree, but it’s not serious.” (“Not serious!?” I thought to myself). It was then the thought of sending him crashing to the forest floor flashed through my brain.

But if you brakes too soon you could also be in trouble.

“If you brake before the guide tells you, you will probably stop before reaching the platform and then the guide will have to go out and lead you in,” he added.

After passing platform 10, the fear in my heart and shaking in my legs completely disappeared and it all started to feel more enjoyable. I also enjoyed lowering myself down by rope to the station below, which is done at four points along the ropeway.

Meanwhile at some stations you have to lift your legs to avoid the tree branches below.

Most of the high stations boast beautiful views when seen from the platforms. Nearing the end of the ride you pass by waterfall.

Within 30 minutes of returning to solid earth, one is able to enjoy lunch at a restaurant overlooking the waterfall. You can also take an elephant ride on a trek through the surrounding jungle.

My suggestion to those of you who are scared of heights: try the lower platforms first and graduate to the higher ones. This will help you adapt to the challenges of the ride.

The Tad Sea flight of nature opened in May.

Guide Mr. Sichat said about 70 people had so far attempted the ride, most of whom had been foreigners.

While it is not yet well known, this adventure activity is sure to gain in popularity, even when a “nervous Nellie” like your writer recommends this first class flight through the treetops in Luang prabang.

Source: Vientiane time newspaper :Vientiane times

Laos Airlines, Special discount, Domestic promotion 2009

2009-06-22T09:27:00.010+07:00

Laos Airlines has announced a new promotion effective April 01 to September 30, 2009. A special price will be offered for two and more passengers traveling together on the same domestic flight.

Vientiane - Luang Prabang (VTE LPQ) one way 510,000 kip, return 975,000 kip

Vientaine - Xiengkhouang (VTE XKH) one way 510,000 kip, return 975,000 kip

Vientiane - Hoeuisay (VTE HOE) one way 660,000 kip, return 1,260,000

Vientiane - Oudomxay (VTE ODY) one way 660,000 kip, return 1.260,000 kip

Vientiane - Luangnamtha (VTE LXG) one way 660,000 kip, return 1,260,000 kip

Vientiane - Savannakhet (VTE ZVK) one way 460,000 kip, return 880,000 kip

Savannakhet - Pakse one way 373,000, return 714,000 kip

Vientiane - Pakse (VTE PKZ) one way 773,000 kip, return 1,474,000 kip

Luang Prabang - Xiengkhouang one way 510,000 kip, return 975,000 kip

Luang Prabang - hoeisay one way 510,000 kip, return 975,000 kip

Luang Prabang - Pakse one way 998,000 kip, return 1,902,000 kip

Ticket shall be purchased 03 days before departure

For more information please contact the nearest Lao Airlines offices
Tel: 021-212051-4,021-212016
Fax: 021-212056, 212058
Email: info@laoairlines.com
Website:www.laoairlines.com/

Lao airlines discount
Laos tourism
Suspension of flight from/to Paskse
Laos visa
Laos work visa

Laos tours - Luang Prabang Itinerary

2009-06-19T08:21:00.004+07:00

Luang Prabang is the ancient first capital of Lane Xang kingdom, the center of religious life in Laos and today the World Heritage City. I will give more some more information about where to go in Luang prabang and also Laos tour plan for Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang tour itinerary

5 days Luang Prabang tour

Day1: Luang Prabang city tour
take a sightseeing tour of the sacred city of temples, of which nearly fifty temples still remain in the town and surrounding areas. visit the National Museum, the former Royal Palace which houses the collection of valuables including the famous Prabang Buddha statue, gifts received from foreign dignitaries…etc, Visit Wat Visoun, the 16th century temple served as a small museum for religious artifacts; Wat Aham, the early 19th century temple, whose two guardian figures at the foot of the steps which represent two characters from the Ramayana – Hanuman, the Monkey God and a fierce Yaksa; Wat Xiengthong, the 16th century temple which, more than any temples in Luang Prabang, epitomizes all the elegance and grace of Luang Prabang architecture; Phousi Hill, the 328 steps leads to the summit of Phousi hill that dominates the sky-line of Luang Prabang overlooking the finest panoramic view in the whole Luang Prabang.

Day2: Luang Prabang - Pak Ou Cave- Laos tours
Go to boat landing, and take an excursion (a few hours) by boat, upstream on the Mekong to visit Pak Ou cave in the side of a lime stone cliff and opposite of the mouth of the Mekong and Ou rivers. The sanctuaries at Pak Ou consist of two large caves, both repositories for thousands of Buddha images, which range from mere centimeter to two meters in height. En route, Lao typical villages are barely visible behind a screen of foliage. Slender canoes bobbing by the shore, bamboo poles and floats mark the location of nets and fish traps. Our first stop will be at Ban Muangkeo, a well-known village for Lao traditional rice whisky, namely Laoh-Khao to be distilled. We are welcome to taste it and also take away. Lunch is at a riverside restaurant. In late afternoon, continue by car to outskirt of town to visit Ban Xangkhong, a well-known village for its wood paper making and also Lao silk weavings with natural dyes.

Day3: Luang Prabang - Kuangsi Waterfall - Laos tours
take a drive (30 km South) to visit Kuangsi Waterfall, which, though not very high, is spectacular and really beautiful with its green surroundings as the preserved National park. We stop en-route, stop to visit a fresh produced market namely Talad Phosy, and also visit Ban Na Oune, a small village of a hill-tribe group “Hmong”, probably the best-known minority group in Laos. Just before arriving at Kuangsi waterfall, there is another village of Khmu minority group, namely Ban Tha Pane that we will visit. Our picnic lunch is served at the shady park nearby Kuangsi waterfall. There is plenty of time for relaxing and a swim in cool water, before we head back to Luang Prabang in the late afternoon. The rest of the day is spent by visiting various craft-shops, including silver smiths’ and also Hmong market in town, where some skilled embroidery-works of Hmong ladies can be seen.

Day4,5: 2 days Elephant Lodge - Nature outside of Luang Prabang.
trekking around Luang Prabang ,mountain biking, go to the nature of Laos outside Luang Prabang. There are big mountains with jungle inside , elephant ride into nature going to water falls like Tad Sae waterfall. It would be a great Laos tours experience.

Tourist attractions in Laos

Laos tours - Vientiane itinerary

2009-06-17T10:25:00.010+07:00

Laos is a Buddhist country with many temples. There are many interesting things to do and places to see. You’ll be amazed of how many temples there are here. I will give you literately Laos tour plan.

Vientiane tour itinerary

3 days Vientiane tours

3 days in Vientiane would be great. If you travel to Laos then you shouldn’t miss Vientiane, Vientiane is the capital city of Laos. It’s very peaceful and someone might even say Vientiane is a sleeping city. If you are looking for a place to relax then Vientiane is the right one for you. There are also many interesting temples in Vientiane and places to see in the tour.

Day1:
- Pra That Luang stupa: is the single most important monument in Laos, which was built to cover the original small stupa containing a piece of the chest bone of Buddha.

- Wat Ho Phra Kaew Museum is the former home-temple of the Emerald Buddha statue or Pra Keo and was originally built in 1566 by king Setthathirat to house the Emerald Buddha. It was taken by the Thais to Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, but today it contains a collection of Buddha statues, antiques and all artifacts found in around Vientiane.
- Patuxay monument: is situated in the center of Vientiane prefecture, its architecture is inspired the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and incorporates typical Lao motifs. It’s built quite recently in commemoration of those who died during the wars in the past and it is today as the land-mark of Vientiane, Wat Si Saket is the oldest temple to have been survived from the Siamese war of 1828 and its cloister contains more than 8000 Buddha statues. Spending your first day explore this Vientiane city tour.

Day2:
the second day you might consider Buddha Park also known as Xieng Khuan (as well as other variations of the spelling) is a sculpture park located 25 km southeast from Vientiane, Laos in a meadow by the Mekong River. It may be referred to as Wat Xieng Khuan although the park is not a temple (Wat). The name Xieng Khuan means Spirit City. The park contains over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues and do some shopping in the morning market(Talat sao mall).

Day3:
The third day go to Nam ngam dam to explore the nature, take the boat trip, visit local village. This will take full day, it takes 2 hours to travel from Vientiane city to Nam ngum dam. It’s a very interesting Laos tour to see and relax.

Laos tourism
Tourist attractions in Laos
Laos work visa
Tourist spots in Laos
Lao culture

Laos tourist visa

2009-06-15T14:15:00.013+07:00

Laos tourist visa

You can get your Laos tourist visa on arrival when you enter Laos. You can obtain Laos visa on arrival in almost border crossings in Laos.

Requirement for laos visa on arrival

1. Application for Laos visa
2. 2 recent passport size photographs
3. valid passport
4. Fee between USD 20-40 depending on your nationality

This laos visa is issued for one entry only
You will get 30 days Laos visa and can be extent by the Laos immigration office.

Here’s the list where you can get your Laos visa on arrival:

Laos tourist visa on arrival:
International airports
1. Wattay International Airport in Vientiane Capital.
2. Luang Prabang International Airport in Luang Prabang Province.
3. Pakse International Airport in Champasack Province.

Border check points for laos visa
1. Mohan(China) – Boten (Luang Namtha Province)
2. Mohan(Yunnan, China) – Botene(Luang Namtha Province)
3. Xiangkok riverport on Mekong River in Luang Namtha Province , no visa on arrival

4. Xiangkong (Thailand)- Houaixay (Bokeo Province)
5. Nongkhai (Thailand) - Friendship Bridge (Vientiane Capital, Laos)
6. Thailand - Xayabouly Province (Nam Heuang Friendship Bridge)
7. Nakhon Phanom (Thailand)- Thakhaek (Khammouane Province)
8. Moukdahan(Thailand)- Friendship Bridge II (Savannakhet Province)
9. Chong Mek (Thailand)- Vang Tao (Champasak Province)
10. Chiangkhong (Chiang Rai, Thailand) – Houixay (Bokeo Province, Laos)
11. Nakaxeng(Loei, Thailand) – Kaenthao(Sayabouly Province, Laos)
12. Bungkan (Thailand)- Pakxan(Bolikhamxay Province, Laos) , no visa on arrival.
10. Nakorn Phanom(Nakorn Phanom, Thailand) – Thakhaek(Khammouane Province, Laos)
13. Chongmek (Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand)- Vangtao( Champasack Province, Laos)

14. Nam Kanh (Vietnam) - Nong Haet (Xieng Khouang Province)
15. Cau Treo (Vietnam) - Nam Phao (Bolikhamxay)
16. Lao Bao(Vietnam) - Dene Savanh (Savannakhet Province)
17. Taichang (Laichau, Vietnam)- Sobhoun( Phongsaly Province, Laos), no visa on arrival
18. Nameo(Thanh Hoa, Vietnam) – Banleui(Huaphanh Province, Laos)
19. Namkan (NgeAn, Vietnam)- Namkan (Xieng Khouang Province, Laos)
20. Napao (Quangbinh, Vietnam) – Chalo (Khammouane Province, Laos) , no visa on arrival
21. Laobao(Quang tri, Vietnam) – Dansavanh (Savannakhet Province, Laos)
22. Dong Calor(Cambodia) - Veun Kham (Champasak Province, Laos), no visa on arrival

If you need more information about laos visa please contact me at traveltolaos@gmail.com --> laos tourist visa on arrival

Laos work visa
Vientiane itinerary
Luang Prabang itinerary
Introduce to Laos

Travel to Laos - Vientiane Capital

2009-06-09T14:12:00.013+07:00

If you travel to Laos then you shouldn't miss Vientiane. Vientiane is the capital city of Laos. There are good places for sign seeing and city tour such as that Luang Stupa, Pataxay Monument, Wat Sisaket and Wat Pha Keo. There are many historical places in Vientiane like temples. If you travel a bit out of city, Buddha park is the great temple. There are many buddha images. It's a very beautiful.

Here are the pictures of places in the center of Vientiane

Cultural hall in Vientiane, Laos

Small eating house in Vientiane

Lao omelet with chili sauce

Road in the center of Vientiane capital

Cost of living in Laos

2009-05-22T10:23:00.019+07:00

The following are estimates of how much things cost in Laos. The cost of living in Laos depends on where you live. The following prices are in Lao kip and also USD and reflect the cost of living in Vientiane only. Things will be cheaper in a small town and villages throughout the country.

Renting a house or an apartment
House rental rates vary so much in Laos. It depends on what you want. It costs between USD100 to 2000 and up per month. The $100 would be a single room without any furniture. The more expensive rate is usually a big house with 3 or 4 bedrooms or more and a garden. The fact you can find a room or house lower than $100, it all depends on location and the quality of the house or room. If you want to seek out where you should find a place to rent here’s a list of the agencies you can contact:

1. http://www.laohomes.com/index.php
2.Tou Tou's House for Rent
Tel: 020 5522142, 5100408, 7718417. Email: TouTou2004@hotmail.com
3. LFT Consulting Co; Ltd. Real Estate Services
Tel: 021-244435, Fax 021-244436, mobile 020-5718893. E-mail:lft_group@laopdr.com, lft_group@yahoo.com"
4. Ourdalee's house renting service
Tel 0205 512 502, 0205 511791, 0205 659 146. Email: oudalee_rangsy@yahoo.com"
• Vientiane Property Service: 020 5599900, 5619160, vientianerealtor@yahoo.com
* Apartments for rent: 020 5023782, hotellao@laotel.com
* Houses and home advisor: 020 5519152
* Peter's Rent-a-House: 0205-526 525 or peter.rentahouse@gmail.com

Food
The following are the estimated prices only and the prices can be much more or less depending on where you eat. Eating house: they usually offer many kinds of dishes, such as pho (beef noodle) and should cost between USD 1.5 to 2. The Prices are the same for fried rice, rice with chicken or pork, and there are still many others with this same price tag. There is delicious French bread here and it should cost about USD 2 for a French bread sandwich with tuna fish. Or there are meat, cheese and other you can choose. The prices are about the same or a bit more or less depending on what you what sandwich you want. If you buy only bread then the cost should be about 3000 kip (USD 0.5) per big loaf in street markets but it’s more expensive if you buy in the supermarket or tourist areas.

Restaurants
There are many restaurants in Laos, especially in tourist areas. There are Italian restaurants, French restaurants, Indian restaurants, Chinese restaurants, etc. You can expect to pay about 20000 to 70000 kip per portion in nice restaurants. There are buffet restaurants, too, and the price is between 35000 kip to 150000 kip, depending where you want to go. There is no pizza hut or KFC here but Thai Pizza Company is going to open the branch here.

Drink:
Drinking water
3000 kip for a small bottle and 5000 kip for a big bottle

Soft drink
5000 – 8000 kip (less than $1) for a can, 8000- 10,000 kip($1 and a bit more ) for a small bottle, 12,000 – 15,000 kip($1.5- $2) for a medium one and 18,000- 20,000 kip ($2 – $2.5)for a bit one

Lao Beer
6000 kip(a bit less than $ 1) per can and 8000 kip(about $1) for a big bottle, up to 10,000 to 15,000 kip for a big bottle if you order in a restaurant or a bar

Cigarettes
Local brands around 5000 kip, Marlboro about 10,000 to 12,000 kip

Cost of Utilities in Laos:
It’s about $ 10 – 15 per month for electricity and $ 5-10 for water, this can be greatly or less depending on how much you use. If you use air condition often you expect to pay $ 50 and up per month. It’s pretty cheap compare to other countries.

Clothing
T-shirt and shirt cost about $5-$10, jeans about $10 - $15, sandals are $8 to $10

Transportation
Local bus: these are very cheap, about 2000 – 5000 kip anywhere in the city but bus here is not convenient, usually only local use this kind of buses, I seldom see foreigners in these buses.

Taxi: majority in the airport, they charge $ 6 dollars from airport to anywhere in the city. There are not many taxis in the city. They usually use Tuk-tuk .

Tuk-tuk: it’s mainly use, the cost vary from the distance you go, they can charge you around $2- $5 depending on your destination but be careful many people get scam from those tuk-tuk driver they charge you over price so better discuss the price before you go with them. You can bargain if you think that their charge is so ridiculous.

Laos tourism
Laos work visa
Hotels in Vangvieng
Laos news
Laos beef noodle soup
Laos Airlines
Laos visa
Laos tourist visa
Luang Prabang first class flight
Laos tours Luang Prabang itinerary
H1N1 cases in Laos
Introduction to Laos

Management of two world heritage sites in Laos

2009-05-18T11:03:00.004+07:00

(From Lao cultural magazine by Bounthavy Champathong) - Travel to Laos. After Luang Prabang town was inscribed to be a world heritage site on 2 December 1995 and Watphou was also declared as a world heritage site on 9 November 2001, the Lao government activity implements the international Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and National Heritage and this action is relevant to the guideline on this convention implementation.

For Luang Prabag town, the Government signed the cooperation agreement with Ville de Shinon, which is the world heritage town in France to together study and formulate the master plan for conserving and expanding the value of world heritage sites. With the fund granted by French Development Agency the Government established the world heritage office and hurried to register preserved houses and imposed the rule on maintenance and restoration of some old houses. It trained technical officers and created a model restoring old buildings and sites under the preservation purpose. This plan is called:"Master Plan for Preserving and Expanding the World Heritage Value." In 2002 the Government approved to UNESCO the Master plan for Preserving and Expanding the World Heritage Value and set up the measure on implementing this plan.

For Wat Phou Champasak, the Government implemented the master plan for managing Wat Phou Champasak and presented it to UNESCO. This plan clearly determines the territory and purpose of conservation and the rule is imposed to fulfill this purpose. There is also the measure on implementation. The fund was gained from the government of Japan(JICA) to build the embankment system to prevent water flowing from the mountain. The museum at the world heritage site was built and technical officers were trained and assistance from the French government was gained to comprehensively educate.

Today, The Government set up the national heritage committee. Its President is Mr.Somsavat Lengsavad, Deputy Minister and Standing Member of the Government. In addition to that, the office of the two world heritage sites is set up to implement the protection task and coordinate with other organizations.

The future plan is to improve the work preserving the world heritage town in Luang Prabang. Previously, the conference of the international heritage committee was held in Luang Prabang and adopted resolutions for determining the future work as follows:

To coordinate with other sectors to carry out the conservation, which is harmonious with development; Don't let development to destroy the world heritage management but it must facilitate development.

Strictly fulfill the promises of the Lao PDR as a party to the convention to UNESCO. To be a model and preserve uniqueness of Laos to attract assistance from the world community.

To decide to get rid of weakness in the work implementation at the heritage preservation site. To implement the procedure of the preservation plan and expat the heritage value to more educate and train, upgrade knowledge and understanding of masses and enable people to gain Honoria and benefits from the national heritage.

Moreover, it is to prepare documents as data about the two world heritage sites in Laos; including advocacy, which is assigned to provincial authorities. In order to implement work, the local committee shall be avialable to formulate the detailed management plan and regularly coordinate with the national committee through the secretariat. The ministry of Information and Cultural is assigned to supervise, set up and implement the national heritage fund.

Two tourist attractions in Laos

2009-05-15T14:59:00.013+07:00

(From Laos Cultural magazine)-Travel to Laos. Phabath temple and white sand rapids are he tourist attractions, which are located on the same area: Nakhouy village, Xaythany district, Vientiane capital.

Nakhouy is one of 104 villages of Xaythany district, which is situated to northeast, 40 kilometers far from Xaythany municipal area and 14 kilometer far from the big road(Road No.10).
Mr. khamkhay Xayavong, chief of this village said Nakhouy village with a population of 400 has 74 houses. People engage in agriculture and the second village income is derived from tourism, particularly the natural and cultural tourist sites.

Phabath temple is classified as the cultural tourist attraction, which is rooted in legend and religion. Located on the foot of Khoukhouy Mountain, this site has Phabath footprint, which is 1.55 meters deep and 3.75 meters long. All toes have the same length. There are a lotus wheel and animal images inside the footprint. it is teh right footprint. Those who come to visit this site worship at it, forecasting by drawing lots. There are a Buddha image and a gong, which are used for typing one's luck(wish and then rub the gong! if there will be goodness or good luck, the gong makes sound).

An abbot of Pabath temple said Phabath temple was built to over footprints of the Lord of Buddha, which were placed on a rocky surface. The legend tells that in the old days a giant threatened in this area and everyday he ate daughters of township people. Young beautiful girls were eaten only middle aged women remained. Therefore, the Lord of Buddha came to help and solve the problem of fellows, teach and punish the giant. The giant, who could not defeat the Lord of Buddha, surrendered and asked the Lord of Buddha for a footprint in order to worship at it. Today, three kilometers far from Phabath temple, there are chalice-shape stupas or chalice-shape stones, which previously called a giant castle area that is 2,000 meters wide and 5,000 meters long. it is called "Chalice-shape stupas" due to many chalice-shape stones in this area.

The natural tourist attraction in the village and beardy area are follows: white sand rapids, Kokmouang (mango tree) rivulet, Nambenf rivulet, Thoua rivulet, Meavang cave, phagnai (big Buddha image)cave, Pho-Meakhoulap cave and Tam cave. The most interesting natural tourist site in Nakhouy village is the white sand rapids, which are wide and beautiful, where cool water flows.

Characteristically, the white sand rapids have water flowing on slopes in a wide area, being a pool. If you look at the rapids from the far distance, it seems to be white. this site is suitable for relaxing, swimming and stay in water and many domestic and foreign tourists come to visit it. The village pays attention to restore this site well, building a road access and huts. Especially, on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5:00 pm musical bands show (only during the Buddhist lent).

Beside the mentioned, there are many interesting things and readers can identify and seek an opportunity to visit this site themselves.

Buddhist Lend End
Tourist spots in Laos
Laos tourism
Laos embassies abroad
Foreign embassies in Laos
Vientiane pictures
Introducation to Laos
Laos Elephants festival
Hotels in Vangvieng
Laos work visa

travel to Laos- Laos transportation

2009-05-14T13:35:00.002+07:00

You can travel to Laos via 3 options: By Air, Overland and River

Air
You can enter Laos via 3 international Airports in Laos. Wattay International airport(Vientiane), Paskse airport(Champasak) and Lungprabang international airport.

Overland
You can travel to Laos by road from Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China There are many border crossings and you can get your visa on your arrival via almost of the border crossing. The most popular entry point is Friendship Bridge in Vientiane for more information please Click here

River
If you travel to Laos via HoeuyXay in Bokeo province, Thakhek in Khammoun province, it means you can take boat ride across the Mekong river , many people travel directly to Lungprabang via Mekong river after crossing from Chiang khong in northern Thailand to HoeuyXay.

Laos beef pho(Rice Noodle Soup)

2009-05-13T13:36:00.005+07:00

Lao beef noodles: Lao people pronounced it as "fur". It is one of the favorite dishes in Laos.fresh chilli with shrimp paste and lemon. It usually costs 10,000 Lao Kip which is about a little more than US$ 1

Luang Prabang Hotels

2009-05-12T13:11:00.042+07:00

Ancient Luang Prabang Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 774, Sisavangvong Road, Pakham Village,
Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (856-71) 212 264.
Fax: (856-71) 212 804.
Email: info@ancientluangprabang.com
Website:http://www.ancientluangprabang.com/

Apsara Hotel Luang Prabang
Tel:(+856 71) 254-670
Fax: (+856 71) 254-252
Email: info@theapsara.com.
Website:http://www.theapsara.com/

Haysoke Hotel Luang Prabang
Address: 224/PB Phouvao Road, Banphabath Tai, Luangprabang Province, Lao PDR.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-278 , 254-488-9
Email: reservation@haysokehotel.com
Website:http://www.haysokehotel.com/

Lao Spirit Resort
Address: Xieng Lom
Luang Prabang
Laos
Tel: (+856 30) 514-0111
EMail: info@lao-spirit.com
Website:http://www.lao-spirit.com/indexen.html

Le Residence Phouvao Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 50, Phouvao Street, Ban Naviengkham, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212 -194, 212 - 530
Fax: (+856 71) 212- 534.
Email: reservations@residencephouvao.com
Website:http://www.residencephouvao.com

Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 741, Phothisarath Road, Namphou square, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-200.
Fax: (+856 71) 216-306.
Email: reservations-maison@angsana.com

Manoluck Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 761, Phouvao Road, 121/3 Pongkham Village, Luang Prabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (856-71) 212 250, 212 509.
Fax: (+856-71) 212 508.
Reservation: (+856-71) 260 263.
Email: booking@manoluckhotel.com
Website:http://www.manoluckhotel.com/

Mekong Riverview Hotel(Mekong View)
Address: P.O.Box: 183, Mekong Riverside Road, Xieng Thong Village,
Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 254-900, 254-910.
Fax: (+856 71) 254-890.
Email: hotel@mekongriverview.com
Website:http://www.mekongriverview.com/

Mouangluang Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 779, Bounkhong Street, Ban Thatluang, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856-71) 212 791 .
Fax: (+856-71) 212 790.

Muongxua Hotel
Address: Phouvao Street , Ban Pongkham, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-263 .
Fax: (+856 71) 212-263.

Naviengkham Hotel
Address: Phothisane Street , Ban Naviengkham, Luangprabang Distrct, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-439 .
Fax: (+856 71) 212-739.

Phousi Hotel
Setthathirath Road , Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-717 .
Fax: (+856 71) 212-719.
E-mail: phousi@laotel.com
Website:http://www.phousihotel.laopdr.com/

Rama Hotel
Address: Visounnarath Road, Visoun Village, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-247 .
Fax: (+856 71) 253-266.

Sala Prabang Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 902, 102/6 Ounkham Street,
Luang Prabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 252-460 .
Fax: (+856 71) 252-472.
Email: salabang@laotel.com
Website:http://www.salalao.com/Salaprabang/Content/Prabang_welcom.htm

Sanakeo Hotel
Address: Ban Phongkham, Phouvao Rd, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 252-992 .
Fax: (+856 71) 253-050.

Sirivongvanh Hotel
Address: Phouvao street, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212-278 .

Satri House Hotel
Address: 057 Phothisarath Road - Ban That Luang - Luang Prabang – Laos
Tel: (+856 71) 253-491
Fax: (+856 71) 253-418
Email: info@satrihouse.com
Website:http://www.satrihouse.com/

The Grand Luang Prabang Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 1191, Xiengkeo Village, Khet Sangkalok,
Luang Prabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 253-851-7.
Fax: (+856 71) 253-027-8.
Email: info@grandluangprabang.com, sales@grandluangprabang.com
Website:http://www.grandluangprabang.com/

Villa Ban Lao Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 888, 87-6 Thammamikaketh Road, Mano Village,
Luang Prabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 252-078 .
Fax: (+856 71) 212-438.
Email: banlao@laotel.com

Villa Santi Hotel (Santi Group)
Address: P.O. Box: 681, Sakkarine Road, Wat Sene Village, Luangprabang District, Luang
Tel: (+856 71) 253 470-9.
Fax: (+856 71) 253-471.
Email: reservations@villasantihotel.com
Website:http://www.villasantihotel.com/

Santi Resort & Spa (Santi Group)
Address: P.O. Box: 681, Nadeuai Village, Luangprabang District, Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 253-470-9.
Fax: (+856 71) 253-471.
Email: reservations@villasantihotel.com
Website:http://www.villasantihotel.com/

Related Articles:
Introduction to Laos
Hotels in vangvieng
Foreign embassies in Laos
Lao embassies abroad
Lao visa and border crossings
4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos
4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos
List of hotels in Vientiane Laos
List of Hotels in Luangprabang
Tourist spots in Laos

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2009-05-12T10:52:00.008+07:00

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List of hotels in Vientiane Laos

2009-05-06T14:52:00.026+07:00

Anou Hotel
Address: Chao Anou Rd, Vientiane
Tel: (+856 21) 213-630
Fax: (+856-21) 213-632 & 213-635

Anou Paradise Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 3655, 1-3 Hengboun Street, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 213-630-4.
Fax: (+856 21) 213-635.
Email: anouhotel@laotel.com

Aroon Hotel
Address: Saylom Road, Hatsadi Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 263-023, 263-024.
Fax: (+856 21) 2630-025.
Website: http://www.aroonhotel.com/

Asian Pavilion Hotel
Address: 379 Samsenthai Road,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (856-21) 212 430-2, 222 890.
Fax: (856-21) 213 085.

Aroon Residence Hotel
Address: Saylom Road, Hatsady Neua,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (856-21) 263 023-4.
Fax: (856-21) 263 025.
Email: booking@aroonresidence.com
Website:http://www.aroonresidencehotel.com/

Avalon Hotel
Address: 070 Rue Phnom Pen Unit 8 Ban Anou Chanthaburi District
Vientiane Laos
Tel: (+85621) 263-597-98
Fax: (+856 21) 263-596
Email: info@avalonbooking.com
Website:http://www.avalonbooking.com//

B & P Hotel
Address: Khounboulom Road, Wat Chan Village,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (856-21) 241-694, 241-066.
Fax: (856-21) 240-916.
Email: b&photel@hotmail.com

Boutchadakham Hotel
Address: Dongpalane road, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (856 21) 452-053-4.
Fax: (856 21) 412-729.
Mobile: (856 20) 551-2117.

Beau Rivage Mekong Hotel
Address: Fa Ngum Road, Ban Seetarn Neua,
P.O.Box 9015, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (856 21) 243-350, 243-376.
Fax: (856 21) 243-345.
Mobile: (856 20) 561-0422.
E-mail: contact@hbrm.com
Website:http://www.hbrm.com//

Chaleunxay Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 1099,Khouvieng Road,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 243-350, 243-376.
Fax: (+856 21) 243 345.
Mobile: (+856 20) 561-0422.

Chanthapanya Hotel
Address: No. 138 Norkeokoummarn Road. Ban Mixay

Chanthabouli District, Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R.

P.O Box 11809 Vientiane

Tel: (+856 21) 244 -284, 241- 451
Fax: (+856 21) 244 - 283
Email: info@chanthapanyahotel.com, cphotel@laotel.com
Website:http://www.chanthapanyahotel.com//

City in Hotel
Address: Rue Pangkham, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel: (+856 21) 218-333
Fax: (+856 21) 218-444
Email: info@CityInnVientiane.com
Website:http://www.cityinnvientiane.com/

Cosmo Group Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 9015, Ban Phakhao, Xaithany District,
Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 711-175-7.
Fax: (+856 21) 710-036.
Mobile: (+856 20) 7600-255.

DanSaVanh Nam Ngum Hotel
Address: 168, Luang Prabang Road, Ban Muang Wa-Tha, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 217-594-5.
Fax: (+856 21) 214-605.
Email: dnnrvip@dansavanh.net
Website:http://www.dansavanh.com/

Day Inn Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 4083, 059/ 3 Pangkham Road, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 223-847-8, 222-985.
Fax: (+856 21) 222-984.
E-mail: dayinn@laoskytelecom.com

Duang Deuane Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 6881, Norkeokoumman Road, Mixay Village,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 222-301-3.
Fax: (+856 21) 222-300.
Email: dd_hotel@hotel.com

Duang Siripanya Hotel
Address: Phonthan Neua Village, Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital.
Mobile: (+856 20) 550-7282, 500-3995.

Don Chan Palace Hotel
Address: Fa Ngum Road , Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 244-288.
Fax: (+856 21) 244-111-2.
Email: donchanpalace@laopdr.com
Website:http://www.donchanpalacelaopdr.com/

Ekalath Metropol Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 3179, Samsenthai Road, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 213-420-1.
Fax: (+856 21) 213-421.

Fong Vimanthong Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 2746, South 13th Road, Ban Phoophanao,Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 900-445-7.
Fax: (+856 21) 900-448.

Green Park Boutique Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 9698, 248 Khouvieng Road, Nongchan Village, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 264-097-9, 263-063.
Fax: (+856 21) 263-064.
Email: info@greenparkvientiane.com
Website:http://www.greenparkvientiane.com/
Inter City Hotel
Address: 24-25 Fa Ngum Road, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 263-788, 242-842-4.
Fax: (+856 21) 243-663.
Email: interhotel@laopdr.com.

Website:http://www.laointercityhotel.net/

Golden bowl Hotel
Address: P.O.Box: 7136,Kaysone Phomvihanh Road, Chommany Tai village, Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 900-011-20.
Fax: (+856 21) 900-010.
E-mail: reservation@angkhamhotel.com
Website:http://www.angkhamhotel.com/

Khonepashong Hotel
Address: Ban Khamhoung, Xaytany District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 710-535.
Mobile: (+856 20) 222-5999, 552-2121, 551-9984.

Khunta Residence Apartment
Address: P.O. Box: 9205, Luang Prabang Road,
Sithanneua Village, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 251-199.
Fax: (+856 21) 251-198.
Email: service@khuntaresident.com

Lane Xang Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 280, Fa Ngum Road, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 214-100-7.
Fax: (+856 21) 214-108.
Email: hotellanexang@yahoo.com

Lao Plaza Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 6708, 63 Samsenthai Road, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 222-741-42, 218-800-1.
Fax: (+856 21) 222-740, 218-807-9.
Email: lph@laoplazahotel.com
Website:http://www.laoplazahotel.com/

Lao Paris Hotel
Address: 100 Samsenthai Road, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 222-229.
Fax: (+856 21) 216-382.
Email: infor@laoparishotel.com
Website:http://www.laoparishotel.com/

Latsavong Hotel
Address: Phonekheng Road , Xaysettha District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 412-607, 414-645-6.

Lao Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 9013, 43/7 Hengboun Road,
Haisok Village, Chanthabouly District,
Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 219-280-81.
Fax: (+856 21) 219-282.
Email: hotellao@laotel.com

Lao orchid hotel
Address: Chao Anou Road, Vat Chanh,Vientiane, Lao P.D.R.
Tel: (+856 21) 264-134
Fax: (+856 21) 264-138
Email: info@lao-orchid.com
Website:http://www.lao-orchid.com/

Mekong Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 2161, Luangprabang Road, Ban Sithan Neua,Sikhotthabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 212-937-8.
Fax: (+856 21) 212-822.
Email: sales@mekong_ht.com

Mekong Breeze Hotel
Address: Ban Sisomsuen, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 213-851.
Mobile: (+856 20) 562-9692, 990-0311.

Muong Lao-China Hotel
Address: P.O. Box: 5720, Km.3 Thadeua Road, Sisattanak District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 313-325-8.
Fax: (+856 21) 312-380.

Mongkol Hotel
Address: 025 FaNgumRd SithanNeua Vientiane Cap.
Vientiane Cap., Lao PDR
Tel: (+856 21) 216-059, 216-232, 216-246
Fax: (+856-21) 214-521

Nakhonesack 3 Hotel
Address: Thongsangnang Road, Ban Thongsangnang, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 264-234, 264-375-6.
Fax: (+856 21) 264-377.
Email: info@nakhonesack3hotel.com

Novotel
Address: Unit 9, P.O.Box 585, Samsenthai Road , Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 213-570.
Fax: (+856 21) 213-572-3.
Email:resvn-novotelvte@etllao.com
Website:Novotel

New Apollo Hotel Vientiane Laos
Address: Luangprabang Road
P.O.Box 102
Vientiane Lao P.D.R.
Tel: (+856 21) 213-343, 214-462
Fax: (+856 21) 213-245
Email: newapollo@yahoo.com

Park View Executive
Address: P.O.Box: 4793, Luang Prabang Road , Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 250-888.
Fax: (+856 21) 250-777.
Email: parkview@laotel.com.
Website:http://www.parkviewexecutive.com/
Phonexay Hotel
Address: Nongbone Road , Xaysettha District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 414-885.

Phoxay Hotel
Address: khounboulom Road , Vat Chanh Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 242-780, 218-491.
Mobile: (+856 20) 589-7315.

Riverside Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 2846, Norkeokoumman Road, Mixay Village, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane
Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 244-390.
Mobiel: (+856 20) 770-6040, 571-2525.
Fax: (+856 21) 244-391.
E-mail: riversidelaohotel@hotmail.com
Website:http://www.riversidehotel.com/

Riverview Hotel
Address: Khaemkong Road , Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 216-244-6.
Fax: (+856 21) 216-232.

Royal Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 395, Lane Xang Avenue, Chanthabouly DistrictVientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 214-455.
Fax: (+856 21) 214-454.
Email: laoroyal@laotel.com

Salaphet Inn
Address: Sisavad Road , Ban Sisavad Tai, Chanthabouly District,Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 217-127.
Fax: (+856 21) 260-516.
Mobile: (856-20) 220-2408.

Samsenthai Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 1553, 15 Manthatourath Road, Xieng Nyeun Village, Chanthabouly District,
Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 216-287
Email: samsenthaihotel@yahoo.com

Saysana Hotel
Address: Chao Anou Street, Watchan Village,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 213-580, 218-636.
Fax: (+856 21) 213-581.

Sengthiene Hotel
Address: New T2 Road, Wattay Ngai Thong, Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 244-339.
Fax: (+856 21) 244-342.
Email: sengthiene_hotel@laotel.com

Seng Lao Hotel
Address: 47/1 12 ChaoAnouSt Haysok Vientiane Cap.
Vientiane Cap., Lao PDR
Tel: (+856 21) 252-653
Fax: (+856 21) 252-654

Settha Palace Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 1618, 6 Pang Kham Street,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 217-581-2.
Fax: (+856 21) 217-583.
Email: reservations@setthapalace.com
Website:http://www.setthapalace.com/

Taipan Hotel
Address: P.O.Box 4148, 2-12 Francois Ngin Street, Ban Mixay,
Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 216-906-9.
Fax: (+856 21) 216-223.
Email:taipan@loxinfo.co.th
Website:http://www.taipanhotel-vientiane.com/

Thavixay Hotel
Address: Dongmieng, T2 Road, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 260-534.
Mobile: (+856 20) 551-2435.

Thavikhoune Hotel
Address: near the Lao – Soviet Friendship Hospital, only 2 minutes walk to the
Market, and 5 minutes to the hospital.
150 Bed Road , Ban Phonsavang, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel:(856 21) 562-592
Mobile: (+856 20) 772-5925
Fax: (+856 21) 562-656
Email: D_PSB@thavikhounhotel.com, keshanfang_5@hotmail.com
Website:http://www.thavikhounhotel.com/

Theplangsy Hotel
Address: Luang Prabang Road , by street to Lao cotton company, Ban Khouta Thong, Sikhottabong District,
Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 215-688, 261-768.
Fax: (+856 21) 223-455.
Email:theplangsyhotel@yahoo.com
Vansana Hotel
Phonethan Road, Phonthan Neua Village,
Saysettha District, Vientiane Capital.
Tel: (+856 21) 414-189.
Fax: (+856 21) 413-171.
E-mail:vansana@laotel.com
Website:http://www.vansanahotel-group.com/

Related Articles:
>> Introduction to Laos
>> Foreign embassies in Laos
>> Lao embassies abroad
>> Lao visa and border crossings
>> 4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos
>> 4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos
>> List of hotels in Vientiane Laos

4 and 5 stars Hotels in Luang Prabang Laos

2009-05-06T10:42:00.003+07:00

Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel Luang Prabang
Address: P.O. Box: 741, Phothisarath Road, Namphou square, Luangprabang District,
Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212 - 200 .
Fax: (+856 71) 216 - 306.
Email: reservations-maison@angsana.com

La Residence Phou Vao Luang Prabang
La Résidence Phou Vao Hotel in Luang Prabang, Laos, is a luxury spa hotel in Luang Prabang with breathtaking views of the mountains and surrounding World Heritage town of Luang Prabang. Experience the unique and peaceful atmosphere of this luxury resort, La Residence Pho Vao, in Laos, and enjoy a warm welcome from some of the most hospitable people in the world.

Address: P.O. Box: 50, Phouvao Street, Ban Naviengkham,Luangprabang District,
Luang Prabang Province.
Tel: (+856 71) 212 - 194
Fax: (+856 71) 212 - 534.
E-mail: reservations@residencephouvao.com
Website: http://www.residencephouvao.com

The Grand Luang Prabang Hotel And Resort
Grand Luang Prabang hotel and resort is situated on grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace which belonged to the famous nationalist hero of Luang Prabang, Prince Phetsarath. He chose this site for tranquility, its stunning views of the mighty Mekong River, and the breathtaking landscape of mountains surrounding Luang Prabang.
The Grand Luang Prabang is the premier destination in Luang Prabang, with its own style and identity. The hotel comprises 76 luxurious rooms and 2 suites, all gracefully decorated.
The service throughout the resort is discrete yet friendly, exemplifying the very best in Laotian hospitality. We look forward to sharing our experience and vision with you.

Address: Ban Xiengkeo, Khet Sangkalok P.O. Box 1191, Luang Prabang Lao PDR
Tel: (+856 71) 253 - 851-7
Fax: (+856 71) 253 - 027-8
Email: info@grandluangprabang.com or sales@grandluangprabang.com
Website: http://www.grandluangprabang.com/

Villa Santi Hotel (Santi Group)
The Villa Santi Hotel is located in the heart of the World Heritage Site with walking distance to many historical sight seeing places such as the former Royal Palace, Mont Phousy, ancient temples, local handicraft shopping area, dining area, Mekong River and Nam Khane River.
The boutique hotel is only 10 minutes drive from the Luang Prabang airport.

Address: Royal Sakkarine Road, Ban Wat Sene, PO Box 681 Luang Prabang, Laos
Tel: (+856 71) 252 - 157 , 212 - 267
Fax: (+856 71) 252 - 158
Email: info@villasantihotel.com
Website: http://www.villasantihotel.com

Santi Resort & Spa (Santi Group)
the Santi Resort & Spa is situated only 6km from the World Heritage Site where the original Villa Santi Hotel is located. The resort decor sits in over 10 hectares of beautifully landscaped gardens, surrounded by mountains and natural streams.
The boutique resort is only 10 minutes drive from the Luang Prabang airport.

Address: Santi Resort Road, Ban Nadeuay, PO Box 681 Luang Prabang, Laos.
Tel :(+856) 71 253470
Fax : (+856) 71 253471
E-mail : info@villasantihotel.com
Website: http://www.villasantihotel.com

Related Articles:
Introduction to Laos
Foreign embassies in Laos
Lao embassies abroad
Lao visa and border crossings
4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos
4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos
List of hotels in Vientiane Laos
Tourist attraction in Laos
List of Hotels in Luangprabang

4 and 5 stars Hotels in Vientiane Laos

2009-05-06T10:20:00.001+07:00

Don Chan Palace Vientiane
Don Chan Palace is the first ever-International five star hotel in the capital city of Vientiane Laos, which took only a mere 9 months to complete. It is strategically located along the infamous Mekong River within easy reach to the city's Embassies, main business districts, major cultural sites and ancient temples. Our hotel promises to provide elegant accommodations, with five-star facilities. Our hotel is also ideally situated near traditional markets and local areas of interest and just 12 minutes from Wattay International Airport.
At 14 storeys high, Don Chan Palace is the tallest and biggest structure in Laos, housing a lavish 240 modern and stylish rooms and suites. Each room commands superb view of both the Mekong River and full view of Vientiane municipality with exquisite standard of luxury, comfort and amenities.
This is a place where you can work as well as relax. Meeting and conference facilities at our grand conventional hall are superbly appointed with modern technology and wireless internet to serve you. We are proud to say that our grand conventional hall is the best in town that boost full facilities for major events and meetings.
A Malaysian owned hotel, our facilities have boosted the country’s tourism infrastructure, and by opening our hotel to welcome delegates of the 10th ASEAN Summit in November 2004, it bolstered our significance. Up to date, we have had major events held at our very own conventional hall including the 2nd ASEAN Business Summit, ASEAN Finance Minister’s meeting, and many more.

Address: Unit 6 Piawat Village, Sisattanak District, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel : (+856 21) 244 - 288
Fax : (+856 21) 244 -111-2
Email : info@donchanpalacelaopdr.com
Website: http://www.donchanpalacelaopdr.com/

Settha Palace Hotel
Old World Charm, Luxurious Elegance
amidst the Tranquility of Laos.
In the heart of bustling Vientiane stands a remarkable hotel. Built in the early part of the last century, circa 1932, and painstakingly restored to its former imperial glory, the Settha Palace Hotel serves as a testament to the long lost era of classical elegance, gracious service and French colonial charm.
Once more owned by the same passionate family that ran the hotel in its heyday before the change of regime to Communism in 1975, no stone has been left unturned and no expense spared in the quest to bring this Vientiane landmark back to life.
The Hotel is located right in the city center, within walking distance of the commercial district, shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. It is 10 minutes drive from Laos Wattai International Airport and 25 minutes drive to Thadeua on Laos side of the Mekong River and the border bridge to Thailand.
Address: Settha Palace Hotel, 6 Pang Kham Street, P.O. Box: 1618, Vientiane, Lao PDR. (Laos)
Tel: (+856 21) 217 - 581-2.
Fax: (+856 21) 217 - 583.
Email: reservations@setthapalace.com
Website: www.setthapalace.com

Lao Plaza Hotel Vientiane
In a capital city which is famous for its temples and monuments, Lao Plaza Hotel has been created to dominate the growing skyline. As the country's first international caliber hotel, the Lao Plaza Hotel is the center of the emerging capital's business and entertainment world.
Multinational businessmen and tourists alike are swiftly discovering the potential of Laos. The Lao Plaza Hotel is uniquely positioned to cater for the executive demands and to introduce the world to the charms and excitement of the awakening country.
The Lao Plaza Hotel is setting the new standards for hospitality in this ancient land.

Address: 63 Samsenethai Road, P.O.Box 6708, Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel: (+856 21) 218 - 800 – 8
Fax: (+856 21) 218 - 806 – 9
Website: http://www.laoplazahotel.com

Novotel Vientiane
The Novotel Vientiane is a 4 star hotel located close to both the centre of Vientiane and the airport. As the ideal location for business trips and holidays, the hotel offers a range of conference and leisure facilities. Featuring 172 rooms, the hotel also boasts an executive floor. Relax with a drink while listening to music in one of our three bars, or enjoy a meal in our restaurant. We also offer a fitness center, outdoor pool, sauna and tennis court. Parking is available for your convenience.

Address: PO Box 585
Unit 9 Ban Khountathong
Samsenthai Road, Sikhotabong
Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 213 - 570/1
Fax: (+856 21) 213 - 573
E-mail: resvn-novotelvte@etllao.com
Website: http://www.novotel.com

Green Park Boutique Hotel Vientiane
Lao Green Park Boutique Hotel and Resort Vientiane is capturing a Lao style orientation with a finest contemporary architecture of Laos. The elegance of the interiors, both historic and contemporary, and glorious settings are combine to create the most distinguished collection of stylish, luxury and relaxing hotels in Vientiane, the capital of Laos (Lao PDR). The green park boutique hotel and resort Vientiane offers a classic touched feeling to step back in time to an era of elegant tradition where luxury abounds in the form of original antique furniture, rich art collections and exclusive nationally renowned beauty. Right next to the biggest park in the capital of Laos, Nong Chank Park, you will experience the magnificence of our classic set of luxury hotels combining breathtaking natural beauty. With a walking distance to major tourist sites and amenities, our hotel has an undeniably superb location in one of the most sought areas in Vientiane. We provide all the personal privacy you could ever dream of whilst having all the facilities of a fabulous luxury hotel within easy reach.
Lao Green Park Boutique Hotel and Resort Vientiane offers a high standard of accommodation, while maintaining attention to detail and generous proportions. What you will find is not only a medium size boutique hotel but also 34 luxurious contemporary Lao and traditional Lao hospitality. For privacy, the hotel provides an excellent opportunity for an exclusive break or longer holiday.

Address: 248 Khouvieng Road, Ban. Nongchanch P.O.Box 9698
Tel: (+856 21) 264 - 097-8 , 263 - 063
Fax: (+856 21) 263 - 064
Email: info@greenparkvientiane.com
Website: http://www.greenparkvientiane.com/

Cosmo Hotel Vientiane

Address: Km 7, 13 South Road , 894-26 Ban Phakhao,Saythany District, Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 711-175-7.
Fax: (+856 21) 710 - 036.
Mobile: (+856 20) 760 - 0255.

Related Articles:
>> Introduction to Laos
>> Foreign embassies in Laos
>> Lao embassies abroad
>> Lao visa and border crossings
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How to get Laos visa on arrival

2009-05-04T11:01:00.015+07:00

You can easily get Laos visa on arrival in most border crossings and all Lao International airports.

Here are simple steps to help you get Laos visa on arrival.

1. Filling up Application form for arrival visa. You can get the form on your arrival or if you want to save waiting time then you can download the form and fill it before your arrival time, to download the Lao Application form for arrival visa click picture below.

2. You need 2 passport size photos.
3. Valid passport.
4. You need to pay fee of about USD 20-45 (Remark: the fee is varied, depending on your nationality)

There are 4 Airports in Laos that you can obtain Lao visa on arrival.

1.    Wattay International Airport in Vientiane Capital.
2.    Luang Prabang International Airport in Luang Prabang Province.
3.    Pakse International Airport in Pakse.
4.    Savannakhet International Airport in Savannakhet Province.

Border check points

China - Laos

1. Mohan(China) – Boten (Luang Namtha Province)

2. Mohan(Yunnan, China) – Botene(Luang Namtha Province)

3. Xiangkok riverport on Mekong River in Luang Namtha Province ,no visa on arrival

Thailand - Laos

1. Xiangkong (Thailand)- Houaixay (Bokeo Province)

2. Nongkhai (Thailand) - Friendship Bridge (Vientiane Capital, Laos)

3. Thailand - Xayabouly Province (Nam Heuang Friendship Bridge)

4. Nakhon Phanom (Thailand)- Thakhaek (Khammouane Province)

5. Moukdahan(Thailand)- Friendship Bridge II (Savannakhet Province)

6. Chong Mek (Thailand)- Vang Tao (Champasak Province)

7. Chiangkhong (Chiang Rai, Thailand) – Houixay (Bokeo Province, Laos)

8. Nakaxeng(Loei, Thailand) – Kaenthao(Sayabouly Province, Laos)

9. Bungkan (Thailand)- Pakxan(Bolikhamxay Province, Laos) no visa on arrival.

10. Nakorn Phanom(Nakorn Phanom, Thailand) – Thakhaek(Khammouane Province, Laos)

11. Chongmek (Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand)- Vangtao( Champasack Province, Laos)

Vietnam - Laos

1. Nam Kanh (Vietnam) - Nong Haet (Xieng Khouang Province)

2. Cau Treo (Vietnam) - Nam Phao (Bolikhamxay)

3. Lao Bao(Vietnam) - Dene Savanh (Savannakhet Province)

4. Taichang (Laichau, Vietnam)- Sobhoun( Phongsaly Province, Laos) no visa on arrival

5. Nameo(Thanh Hoa, Vietnam) – Banleui(Huaphanh Province, Laos)

6. Namkan (NgeAn, Vietnam)- Namkan (Xieng Khouang Province, Laos)

7. Napao (Quangbinh, Vietnam) – Chalo (Khammouane Province, Laos) no visa on arrival

8. Laobao(Quang tri, Vietnam) – Dansavanh (Savannakhet Province, Laos)

Cambodia - Laos

1. Dong Calor(Cambodia) - Veun Kham (Champasak Province, Laos)

Laos work visa

Introduction to Laos
Foreign embassies in Laos
Lao embassies abroad

Lao visa and border crossings

4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos

4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos

List of hotels in Vientiane Laos

List of Hotels in Luangprabang

Laos beef noodle soup

Laos news
Laos visa
Tourist attractions in Laos
Laos tourism
Introduction to Laos

Foreign embassies in Laos

2009-05-04T10:24:00.003+07:00

American Embassy
19 Rue Bartholonie, That Dam Road
Tel: (+856 21) 267-000
Fax: (+856 21) 267-190
Web Site: http://usembassy.state.gov

Australian Embassy in Vientiane, Laos
KM4, Thadeua Road, Watnak Village
Sisattanak District, Vientiane Laos PDR
Tel: (+856 21) 353-800
Fax: (+856 21) 353-801
Web Site: http://www.laos.embassy.gov.au/
Email: austemb.laos@dfat.gov.au
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30 am -5.00 pm (except for public holidays).
The Visa office is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from
9.00am to 12.00 noon.

Bruneian Embassy
No.30, Unit 12 - Ban Thongkang, Sisathanak District, Lanexang Avenue
Vientiane, Laos
P.O.Box 7843
Tel: (+856 21) 416-114
Fax: (+856 21)416-115
Email: vientiane.laos@mfa.gov.bn
Office Hours: Monday – Friday 08:00 am – 12:00 noon 13:30 pm – 16:00 pm

Cambodian Embassy
Thadeua Road
KM2 B.P.34 ,Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 314-950, 314-952
Fax: (856 21) 314-951
Email: recamlao@laotel.com

Chinese Embassy
Wat Nak Road, Sisattanak
Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 315-100
Fax: (+856-21) 315-104
Email: embassyprc@laonet.net

Cuban Embassy
Ban Saphanthong Neua R-128
Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (856-21) 314-902
Fax: (856-21) 314-901
Email: embacuba@etllao.com

French Embassy
Avenue Sethathirat Vientiane, BP 6
Tel: (+856 21) 215-253
Fax: (+856 21) 215-250
Web Site: http://www.ambafrance-laos.org/
Email: consulat.vientiane-amba@diplomatie.gouv.fr

German Embassy
Rue Sokpalouang 26 Vientiane
Tel: (+856 21) 312-110
Fax: (+856 21) 314-322
Email: info@vien.diplo.de

Indian Embassy
Ban Wat-Nak, Thadeua Road, KM 3
Sisattanak District, Vientiane capital
Tel: (+856 21) 352301-04
Fax: (+856 21) 352300
Email: indiaemb@laotel.com

Indonesian Embassy
Phone Kheng Road Vientiane, Laos
P.O.BOX 277
Tel: (+856 21) 413-909, 413-910, 416-264
Fax: (+856 21) 214-828
Email: kbrivte@laotel.com

Japanese Embassy
Sisangvone Road Saysettha District, Vientiane capital Laos
Tel: (+ 856 21) 414400-3
Fax: (+ 856 21) 414 406

Malaysian Embassy
23 Singha Road
Ban Phonxay, P.O Box 789
Vientiane, Laos PDR
Tel: (+856 21) 414205/06
Fax: (+856 21) 414201
Web Site: http://www.kln.gov.my/perwakilan/vientiane
Email: mwvntian@laopdr.com
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8.00 am - 4.30 pm

Myanmar Embassy
Ban Thong Kang, P.O. Box No. 11
Sok Palaung P.O. Box No. 11
Tel: (+856 21) 314-910, 314-911
Fax: (+856 21) 314-913
Email: mev@loxinfo.co.th, mevlao@laotel.com

Philippine Embassy
Unit 18, Ban Sibounheuang Sisattanak District
P.O. Box 2415 Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 452-490/ 491
Fax: (+856 21) 452-493
Email: vientianepe@dfa.gov.ph

Russian Embassy
Thaphalanxay quarter, km 4, Thadeua str., Vientiane, B.P. 490, Laos
Tel: (+856 21) 312-219, 312-222
Fax: (+856 21) 312-210
Telex: (804) 4323 AMB SOV LS
Email: rusemb@laotel.com

South Korean Embassy
Lao-Thai Friendship Rd, Ban Watnak, Sisattanak District.
PO Box 7567
Vientiane Laos
Tel:(+856 21) 415 - 833, 415 - 834
Fax:(+856 21) 415 - 831

Vietnamese Embassy in Vientiane
Embassy of Vietnam in Laos
Thatluang Rd.Vientiane Laos
Tel: (856) 2141 3409
Fax: (856) 2141 3379
Email: lao.dsqvn@mofa.gov.vn

Consulate General of the S.R. of Vietnam
31 Ban Pha Bat, Pakse Laos
Phone: (+856 31) 212-058, 212-827
Fax: (+856 31) 212-827
Email: ksvnps@laotel.com

Consulate General of the S.R. of Vietnam
118 Sisavanvong Road
Muong Khan-Thabuli
Savannakhet Laos
Tel: (+856 41) 212-418
Fax: (+856 41) 212-182
Email: tlsxavan@laotel.com

Thai Embassy
Royal Thai Embassy
Avenue Kaysone Phomvihane
Saysettha District, Vientiane .P.O. Box 128
Tel: (+856 21) 214-581-2
Fax: (+856 21) 214-580

Consular Section
Unit 14, Ban Phonsinoun Sisattanak District Vientiand
Tel: (+856 21) 453-916, 415-337
Fax: (+856 21) 415-336
Web Site: http://www.thaiembassy.org/vientiane/
Email: thaivte@mfa.go.th

Thai Consulate in Savannakhet province
Ban thamoung , Kaisonephomvihan District, Savannakhet Province
Tel: (+856 41) 212-373 / +856-41 212-445
Fax: (+856 41) 212-370
Email: thaisvk@mserv.mfa.go.th

Related Articles:
Introduction to Laos
Foreign embassies in Laos
Lao embassies abroad
Lao visa and border crossings
4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos
4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos
List of hotels in Vientiane Laos
List of Hotels in Luangprabang
Tourist attractions in Laos

Lao embassies abroad

2009-05-04T10:00:00.002+07:00

Australia
1 Dalmain Crescent O'Malley
Canberra ACT 2606
Tel: (+61 6) 286-4595, 286-6933
Fax: (+61 6) 290-1910.
Email : laoemb@bigpond.net.au
Office hour:
Monday to Friday:
9:00 - 12:00 am
1:00 – 4:00 pm

Belgium
19, Avenue Brabançonne, 1000 BrusselsBelgium
Tel: (+32 2) 740-0950 Fax: (+32 2) 734-1616
Email: Ambalaobx@yucom.b

Brunei
Thanon Darussalam Lot No. 19824, House No. 11Simfang 480 Jalang Kebang Saan Lama 3786Off Jalang MuaraBander Seri Begawan 3786
Tel: (637) 02 - 345 666
Fax: (673) 02 - 456 888

Cambodia
15-17 Thanon Keomani
PO BOX 19
Phnom Penh
Tel: (+855 23) 26-441, 24-781
Fax: (+855 23) 27-454.

People's Republic of China
Embassy of the Lao PDR
11 Sanlitun Dongsie Jie
Beijing 100600
Tel: (+86 1) 532-1224
Fax: (+86 1) 532-6748

Consulate General of the Lao PDR
Room 3226 Camellia Hotel
154 East Dong Feng Road
Kunming 650041
Tel: (+86 871) 317-6623, 317-6624
Fax: (+86 871) 317-8556.

Cuba
7 Ave Calle 36 A
505 Miramar
Havana
Tel: (+53 7) 33-1056, 33-1057, 33-1058.

France
74 Ave Raymond Poincaré
75116 Paris
Tel: (+33 1) 4553-0298, 4554-7047
Fax: (+33 1) 4727-5789.
http://www.laoparis.com/

Germany
Bismarckallee 2A
14193 Berlin
Tel: (+49 30) 8906-0647, 744-3883
Fax: (+49 30) 8906-0648, 8906-0649

Korea
South Korea
657-9 Hannam-DongYongsan-Gu
Seoul
South Korea
Tel:(+82 2) 796-1713, 796-1714, 796-1771
Fax:(+82 2) 796-1771
Email:amphayk@hotmail.com

North Korea
Munhung Dong, Talelonggang District
Pyongyang
North Korea
Tel:(+850 2) 381-7363
Fax:(+850 2) 381-7722

Hongkong
Room 1402, Arion Commercial Centre, 2-12 Queen's Road West, Hong Kong
Tel: (852) 2544 1186

India
A 104/7, Parrmanand 110065
New Delhi -17
India
Tel: (+91 11) 632-3048, 693-3319
Fax: (+91 11) 632-3048, 693-3320

Indonesia
Jalan Kintamani Raya C-15 No 33
Kuningam Timur
Jakarta 12950
Tel: (+62 21) 520-2670, 522-9602
Fax: (+91 11) 522-9601.

Japan
3-3-22 Nishi-Azabu Minato-Ku
Tokyo 106
Tel: (+81 3) 5411-2291, 5411-2292
Fax: (+81 3) 5411-2293.

Malaysia
108 Jalan Damai
Kuala Lumpur 55000
Tel: (+60 3) 248-3895
Fax: (+60 3) 242-0344.

Mongolia
Ikh Toiruu
PO BOX 1030
Ulaanbaatar
Tel: (+976 1) 326-440, 329-898.

Myanmar
A1, Diplomatic Quarters, Tawwin Road,
Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar
Office hour: Mon-Fri : 0830-1200, 1400-1630
Consular Section :Mon-Fri : 0830-1200, 1400-1600
Te: (95 1) 222 482
Fa: (95 1) 227 446
Email : Laoembcab@mptmail.net.mm

Poland
U1. Rejtana 15/26 02516 Warszawa
Tel: (+48 22) 484786, 488949
Fax: (+48 22) 497122
Telex: 813593 BTXCB PL

Russia
Moscow, U1, Karchalova 18 121069
Tel: (+7 095) 2031454 29126956
Fax: (+7 095) 2904246
Telex: 413101 AMLAO SU

Sweden
Hornsgatan 82-B1 TR 11721
Stockholm
Tel: (+46 8) 668-5122
Fax: (+46 8) 669-2176.

Switzerland
Rte de colovrex, 14 Bis
1218 Grand-Saconnex, Switzerland.
Tel: (004) 022 798 2440.
Fax: (004) 022 740 4410

Thailand
Embassy of the Lao PDR
520, 502/ 1-3 Soi Ramkhaheang 39 Bangkapi, Bangkok 10310
Tel.: 539 7341; 539 6667-8
Fax.: 539 3827; 539 6678

Consulate General in Khonkaen
19/1-3 Phothisarn Road, Khonkaen, Khonkaen, Thailand
Tel: (+43) 223473, 223698

United States of America
Embassy of the Lao PDR
2222 S. Street NW
Washington, DC 20008
Tel: (+1 202) 328-9148, 667-0187, 667-0076
Fax: (+1 202) 232-1208.

Vietnam
Embassy of the Lao PDR
22 Rue Tran Binh Trong, Hanoi
Tel: (+84 4) 254576, 296746
Fax: (+84 4) 228414

General Consulate in Hochiminh city Vietnam
181 Hai Ba Trung, Ho Chi Minh City
Tel: (+84 8) 299275, 297667
Fax: (+84 8) 299272

General Consulate in Danang city Vietnam
12 Tran Quy Cap Danang city
Tel: (+84 51) 21208, 24101
Fax: (+84 51) 22628

Philippines
34 Lapu - Lapu Street, Magallanes Village
Makati City, Metro Manila
Tel: (+63 2) 852-5759, 852-5979
Fax: (+63 2) 852-5759

Singapore
101 Thomson Road, #05-03A, United Square
Singapore 307591
Tel: 2506044, 2506741
Fax: 2506014
E-mail: laoembsg@singnet.com.sg

Related Articles:
Introduction to Laos
Foreign embassies in Laos
Lao embassies abroad
Lao visa and border crossings
4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos
4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos
List of hotels in Vientiane Laos
List of Hotels in Luangprabang

Travel to Laos

2009-05-04T09:10:00.004+07:00

Many people travel to Laos these days. I will give brief introduction about people who want to know about Laos and also the ones who want to travel to Laos.
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia neighboring by Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar and China. There are three main cities in the country; they are Vientiane which is the capital city of Laos, Luangprabang and Champasak. Laos covers a total land area of 236, 800 square kilometers, almost 70% of the country being mountain and forest. The Mekong River flows through all parts of Laos.
Lao PDR has a population of about 6.7 million. There are over 45 different ethnic groups such as Hmong, Yao, Lue, Ka… Each tribe has its own custom, dialects and costumes.
The official language is Lao but English and French is used, usually for business purpose.
Laos is a Buddhist country with many temples. There is temple in every village in Laos. Early morning monks go for collect food (it is called alms) from people around the village. Giving alms is one way of making merit for Lao people.
Cost of living in Laos is pretty cheap. You can live here for a few hundred dollars a month. It’s one attraction of Laos.
If you come to Laos you shouldn’t miss Vientiane. There are good places for sign seeing and city tour such as that Luang Stupa, Pataxay Monument, Wat Sisaket and Wat Pha Keo, Wat phou and konphapheng water fall (Biggest water full in Laos) in southern Laos, Plain of jar is in Xieng Khuaung province the way up north and the interesting caves are in Vangvieng, the old museum palace, Phousi Hill in Lung Prabang.
If you enjoy tubing you shouldn’t miss Vangvieng, it would be a great experience.
There are many interesting things to do, interesting places to go and meet new friends. You’ll see a beautiful Lao culture that you should experience in a lifetime. Travel to Laos will be a great experience. If you are looking for somewhere exotic to go, travel to Laos is the key.

Related Articles:
Introduction to Laos
Foreign embassies in Laos
Lao embassies abroad
Lao visa and border crossings
4 and 5 stars hotels in Vientiane Laos
4 and 5 stars hotels in Luang Prabang Laos
List of hotels in Vientiane Laos
List of Hotels in Luangprabang