tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82364198954434328902024-03-14T01:56:30.499+07:00Laos travel information|Laos visa|cost of living in LaosIf you are traveling to Laos then you are in the right place for information about travel to Laos, laos tourist visa, Hotels, cost of living in Vientiane, Laos, you can also post your question about LaosNoknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-50679549064856518602011-10-27T13:50:00.000+07:002011-10-27T13:50:21.643+07:00Where Is Laos<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
Where is Laos - <b>Area</b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
Where is Laos - <b>Population</b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
Where is Laos - <b>Cremate</b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Time in Laos is 7 hours Greenwich Mean time (GMT * 7)</b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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.<br />
</div>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-416688359171892312011-04-07T10:20:00.000+07:002011-04-07T10:20:39.106+07:00Learn Lao Conversation<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="color: blue;">Conversation on the telephone</b><br />
<br />
Sam: Hello. May I speak to Danny please? =<span style="background-color: white;"> <b style="color: blue;">Hello khor lom kub Danny nea</b></span><br />
Danny’s dad: Who’s calling? = <b><span style="color: blue;">Man phai nor</span></b><br />
Sam: = <b><span style="color: blue;">Sam na</span></b><br />
Danny’s dad: Please wait = <b><span style="color: blue;">Ta bud neung</span></b><br />
Sam: Ok = <b><span style="color: blue;">Jao</span></b><br />
Danny: = <b><span style="color: blue;">Hello</span></b><br />
<br />
Sam: Hello Danny, this is Sam = <b><span style="color: blue;">Hello Danny, nee man Sam na</span></b><br />
Danny: Hi Same, what’s up? = <b style="color: blue;">Sabaidee Sam, mee yang bor</b><br />
Danny is not here: <b><span style="color: blue;">Danny bor yu</span></b><br />
When will Danny be back? <b><span style="color: blue;">Danny shi kub ma ton dai/yam dai</span></b><br />
That’s all, bye: <b><span style="color: blue;">Thor nee der, lagon</span></b><br />
Can you please tell him that I called? <b><span style="color: blue;">Bork lao dai bor wa khoi tho ha</span></b><br />
Can you ask him to call me back? <b><span style="color: blue;">Bork lao tho kub ha khoi dai bor</span></b><br />
My phone no. is :<b><span style="color: blue;"> Ber tho khoi man</span></b><br />
Wrong number: <b><span style="color: blue;">Tho pid</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Direction in Lao</span></b></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
Where is….? = <b style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Yu sai</b><br />
I want to go…. =<span style="color: blue;"> </span><b style="color: blue;">Khoi yak pai</b><br />
Toilet = <b style="color: blue;">Hong num</b><br />
Airport = <b style="color: blue;">Sa-nam bin</b><br />
Train Station =<span style="color: blue;"> </span><b style="color: blue;">Sa ta ni Lod Fai</b><br />
Which way? = <b style="color: blue;">Pai tang dai</b><br />
Left = <b style="color: blue;">Sai</b><br />
Right = <b style="color: blue;">Kwau</b><br />
Straight = <b style="color: blue;">Sue</b><br />
Is it far? = <b style="color: blue;">Kai bor</b><br />
Yes, it is far =<b> <span style="color: blue;">Kai</span></b><br />
No, it isn’t far = <b style="color: blue;">Bo Kai</b><br />
Floor = <b style="color: blue;">Sun</b><br />
1st floor = <b style="color: blue;">Sun neung</b><br />
2nd floor = <b style="color: blue;">Sun song</b><br />
How much is it to go to morning market? = <b style="color: blue;">Pai ta lat sao thor dai</b><br />
</div>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-44388486704478533392010-12-21T22:13:00.000+07:002010-12-21T22:13:54.966+07:00Travel to Pakse Champasack<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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".</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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.</div>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-12268787085902874382010-11-12T11:40:00.001+07:002010-11-12T11:42:53.662+07:00Learn Some Lao Words<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">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</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
<b style="color: blue;">Below are list of color</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
1. White = See kow<br />
2. Yellow= See Lueang<br />
3. Orange= see som (or you can say see num mark kieng)<br />
4. Red= see daeng<br />
5. Blue= see fa<br />
6. Pink= see bua<br />
7. Beige= see keem</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
<b style="color: blue;">Counting in Lao language</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
One = Neung<br />
Two= Song<br />
Three= Sam<br />
Four = see<br />
Five= ha<br />
Six= hok<br />
Seven =jed<br />
Eight= pad<br />
Nine=kao<br />
Ten= sib<br />
Eleven=sib et<br />
Twelve= sib song<br />
Thirteen = sib sam<br />
Fourteen = sib see</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
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),…<br />
Twenty is sao and twenty one is sao et. Then it comes to the same formula as above for example<br />
20+2 (sao song), 20+3(sao sam),…<br />
Thirty is sam sib<br />
Fourty is see sib<br />
By now you can count all the way to one hundred<br />
50=5 X 10 (ha sib)<br />
60=6 X 10 (hok sib)<br />
70=7 X 10 (jed sib)<br />
80=6 X 10 (pad sib)<br />
90=6 X 10 (kao sib)<br />
<br />
One hundred= neung hoi<br />
Two hundred= Song hoi<br />
Three hundred= sam hoi<br />
Four hundred= see hoi<br />
Five hundred = ha hoi<br />
Six hundred = hok hoi<br />
Seven hundred = jed hoi<br />
Eight hundred = pad hoi<br />
Nine hundred = kao hoi<br />
One thousand = neung pan<br />
<br />
<b style="color: blue;">Days of the week</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b style="color: blue;"> </b><br />
Monday= van chan<br />
Tuesday= van khan or you can say van ang khan<br />
Wednesday= van phoud<br />
Thursday= van phahud<br />
Friday= van souk<br />
Saturday= van sao<br />
Sunday= van tid<br />
<b style="background-color: blue;"><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: blue;">Months of the year</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
January = mung kon<br />
February= kum pa<br />
March= mee na<br />
April= may sa<br />
May= peaud sa pa<br />
June=mi thu na<br />
July= kor la kod<br />
August= Sing ha<br />
September= kun ya<br />
November= pha jik<br />
December= tan wa<br />
</span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-34690765637017264742010-10-14T13:52:00.000+07:002014-06-23T09:05:08.356+07:00How to Get English Teaching Job in Laos<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
Laos is not like Thailand, Taiwan other places that English teaching jobs are advertised via various sources like internet, newspapers and so on.</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<br />
Where to find English teaching jobs in Laos.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<b><br />
1. Internet.</b><br />
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.<br />
<br />
<b>2. Newspaper.</b><br />
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.<br />
<br />
<b>3. Look by yourself.</b><br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">If you are interested to work as a private tutor you can contact this email address: <b>monika_n2003@yahoo.com</b></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>1. Kiettisack International School.</b><br />
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: <a href="http://www.kiettisack.com/school/employment.html">http://www.kiettisack.com/school/employment.html</a>.<br />
<b><br />
2.Vientiane International School.</b><br />
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:<br />
<a href="http://vislao.com/content/view/386/217/">http://vislao.com/content/view/386/217/</a><br />
<br />
<b>3. Eastern Star Bilingual School.</b><br />
<a href="http://www.esbs.edu.la/">http://www.esbs.edu.la/</a><br />
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<br />
<br />
4. Panyathip International School.<br />
<a href="http://pbslao.gmlao.com/">http://pbslao.gmlao.com/</a><br />
<br />
<b>5. JS school</b><br />
294 NongboneSt Nongbone Vientiane Cap. <br />
Vientiane Cap., Lao PDR<br />
Tel: +856 20 7810547<br />
<br />
<b>6. Lao Top College.</b><br />
<a href="http://laotop.net/laotop/index.php/contact-us.html">http://laotop.net/laotop/index.php/contact-us.html</a><br />
<br />
<b>7. Lao-Singapore Business College</b><br />
<a href="http://lsbcollege.net/">http://lsbcollege.net/</a><br />
<br />
<b>8. Vientiane College</b><br />
<a href="http://www.vientianecollege.com/">http://www.vientianecollege.com/</a><br />
<br />
<b> 9. Lao-American College.</b><br />
<b> http://www.lac.edu.la/</b><br />
<br />
<b> 10. Sharon School </b><br />
<a href="http://www.sharoneschool.com/">http://www.sharoneschool.com/</a><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-58895938400701224112010-07-16T13:52:00.000+07:002010-07-16T13:52:25.603+07:00Lao New Year<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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.</span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-58757372433738085992010-06-10T14:26:00.000+07:002010-06-10T14:26:15.363+07:00Best Places to go Shopping in Laos<br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1. Talatsao Mall or Morning Market in Vientiane.</span></b><br />
<br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Talatsao mall in a center shopping center for Lao and tourists. This is a must see place. You can choose plenty of souvenirs there. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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 <a href="http://www.talatsaomall.com/">http://www.talatsaomall.com/</a> for more information.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">2. Lao ITECC(Lao International Trade Exhibition And Convention Center) in Vientiane</span>.</b><br />
<br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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. </span><br />
<br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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 <a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1401622111">http://www.lao-itecc.la/</a></span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">3. Night Market in Luangprabang</span>.</b><br />
<br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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. </span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-64161104194765909562010-06-08T22:26:00.003+07:002010-06-08T22:31:05.728+07:007 Best Restaurants in Vientiane forTourists<div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> If you has no idea where to eat in Vientiane. Below are list of restaurants you may enjoy. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>1. Khop Chai Deu Resturant</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Address:</b> 54 Setthathirat Rd, Nam Phou, Vientiane, Lao P.D.R. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Tel: </b>+856-21 251564, Catering Service: +856-20 5619107</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Email:</b> info@khopchaideu.com </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Website:</b> <a href="http://www.khopchaideu.com/">http://www.khopchaideu.com/</a></div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>2. Sabaidee Restaurant</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">They serve mixture of Lao, other asian and western food.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b> Address:</b>36 Setthathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Tel:</b>+856 21 214 278 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> </div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>3. Nazim Restaurant</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">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.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Address: </b>Fa-ngoum Rd (Mekong), Vientiane, Laos</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Tel:</b> +856 21 223 480 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Website: </b><a href="http://www.nazim.laopdr.com/">http://www.nazim.laopdr.com/</a></div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>4. Kualao Restaurant</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">They serve Lao food. They have Lao music and traditional Lao dance at night. There are also VIP rooms available. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Address:</b> 141 Samsenthai Road, Vientiane, Laos.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Tel:</b> +856 21215 777 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Email:</b> lovelytouty@yahoo.com</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Website:<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1409358509"> </a></b><a href="http://www.kualao.laopdr.com/">http://www.kualao.laopdr.com/</a></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>5. Le Silapa Restaurant</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> Le Silapa is a high standard restaurant in Vientiane. They serve french cuisine. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b> Address:</b> 17/1 Th Sihom, City Centre </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b> Tel: </b>+856 21 219689 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>6. Full Moon Cafe</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">There serve lao, thai, chinese, vietnamese, and indian foods. There are plenty kinds of foods you can select. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It's a relaxed place to eat. </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Address:</b> François Nginn Rd , Vientiane, Laos</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Phone:</b>+856 21 243373 </div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: lime; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>7. Sticky Fingers Cafe and Bar</b></div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">They serve western food. It's a place for expats to hang out.</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Address:</b> 10/3 François Nginn Rd, Vientiane, Laos</div><div style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Tel: </b>+856 21 215 972</div>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-89982869699466469052010-04-12T21:10:00.003+07:002010-04-12T21:19:27.162+07:00Luang Prabang hopes for Lao visitors at Pi Mai<p style="font-family: verdana;">(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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">Luang Prabang Tourism Department Deputy Director Khamtan Somphanvilay said yesterday that the cancellations were due to the recent political unrest in Bangkok. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">“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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">“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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">“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.” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">He added that the government was trying to find the funds to improve the water supply in the province, which would be costly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">In any case, New Year celebrations, particularly the cultural and traditional activities, will go ahead as scheduled, he said. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">The programme of activities starts on April 10 and ends on April 19. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">On April 18, the public will be able to pour perfumed water over the Prabang Buddha and enjoy various traditional performances. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;">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. </p> <strong style="font-family: verdana;">By Panyasith Thammavongsa </strong>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-60086056293237663882009-10-29T09:47:00.001+07:002009-10-29T09:49:53.043+07:00That Luang festival mixes culture and business<span style="font-family:verdana;">The trade fair associated with the annual That Luang Festival officially opened yesterday in a ceremony attended by government officials and business representatives.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Vice President Bounnhang Vorachit, Standing Deputy Prime Minister Somsavat Lengsavad and Vientiane Mayor Sombath Yialiher were among those in attendance.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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 .</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">On this occasion people of ethnic groups from all over Laos come to worship at this most magnificent of festivals.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Mr Somvandy said the festival would give security units the chance to prove their worth in ensuring safety for everyone and preventing accidents.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Amid a joyful atmosphere, various activities serve to preserve the country's fine traditions.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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. </span><br /><a href="http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/FreeContent/Free_That.htm"><span style="font-family:verdana;font-size:85%;">http://www.vientianetimes.org.la/FreeContent/Free_That.htm</span></a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-77458783741333686442009-10-13T09:15:00.008+07:002009-11-22T12:10:50.453+07:00Do’s and don’t in Lao culture- showing respect for Lao religion and culture<span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Show respect and use your head and eyes and common sense will guide you well in navigating Lao culture safely.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Welcome</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Feeling in public</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Foot and Head</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Shouting</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Appearance</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >In a Lao House</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Environment</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Drugs</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The penalties may be severe for you and even worse for the Lao society.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:verdana;" >Religion</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">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.</span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-77622737220207444152009-09-14T11:06:00.003+07:002009-10-12T14:05:09.556+07:00Lao Airlines Special Discount for International Routes<span style="font-weight: bold;">Laos Airlines</span> has announced a new promotion effective July 21 to October 28, 2009 for international routes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vientiane - Bangkok</span>(VTE BKK) one way 105 USD, return 189 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vientiane - Hanoi</span>(VTE HN) one way 110 USD, return 200 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vientiane - Siem Reap </span>one way 137 USD, return 263 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Vientiane - Kunming </span>one way 137 USD, return 263 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Luang Prabang - Chiang Mai </span>one way 100 USD, return 179 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Luang Prabang - Bangkok </span>one way 126 USD, return 242 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Luang Prabang - Hanoi </span>one way 105 USD, return 200 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Luang Prabang - Siem Reap </span>one way 158 USD, return 294 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Luang Prabang - Udone Thani </span>one way 79 USD, return 147 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Savannakhet - Siem Reap </span>one way 114 USD, return 209 USD.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Savannakhet - Bangkok </span>one way 95 USD, return 179 USD.<br /><br />Thanks source from <a href="http://www.laoairlines.com/">http://www.laoairlines.com/</a><br /><a href="http://www.blogcatalog.com/">http://www.blogcatalog.com/</a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-33040498851394409032009-08-24T09:11:00.004+07:002009-10-13T09:22:40.438+07:00Learn Lao LanguageWhen 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<br /><br />"<span style="font-weight: bold;">Sabaidee</span>" that is how we say Hello in Lao.<br /><br />How are you = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Sabaidee bor</span> (Lao)<br /><br />I am fine = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi sabaidee </span>(Lao)<br /><br />I am not feeling very well = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi bor sabai</span> (Lao)<br /><br />I am sorry = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kaw tode</span><br /><br />Never mind/ you are welcome = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bor pen yang</span><br /><br />Thank you = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khop jai</span> (Lao)<br /><br />Can you speak Lao = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jao wao pasa lao dai bor</span> (Lao)<br /><br />Can you speak English = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jao wao pasa angkit dai bor</span> (Lao)<br /><br />My name is.... = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi sue wa</span>......<br /><br />What is your name = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jao sue yang</span><br /><br />Nice to meet you = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Yin dee ti dai hu jak jao</span><br /><br />Yes = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Chao</span><br /><br />No = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bor</span><br /><br />I am hungry = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi hew</span><br /><br />I am full = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi im</span><br /><br />I want to eat = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi yark kin</span><br /><br />I want to go.... = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Khoi yark pai</span>....<br /><br />I've got a headache = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Khoi jeb hua</span><br /><br />I've got a stomachache = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Khoi jeb tong</span><br /><br />I like Laos = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Khoi mak Muang Lao</span><br /><br />I like Lao people = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Khoi mak kon lao</span><br /><br />I don't want to go back home = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Khoi bor yark kub baan</span><br /><br />You are very beautiful = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jao ngam lai</span><br /><br />I really like you = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi mak jao tae tae</span><br /><br />Do you want to go out with me = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jao yark pai tiaw kub khoi bor</span><br /><br />Do you want to go see a movie with me = <span style="font-weight: bold;">Jao yark pai berng nang kub khoi bor</span><br /><br />I enjoy talking to you = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi mak lom kub jao</span><br /><br />I love you = <span style="font-weight: bold;">khoi huk jao<br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/10/dos-and-dont-in-lao-culture.html">Lao culture</a><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-75085298938093051292009-08-12T09:51:00.005+07:002009-08-24T09:35:37.050+07:00Questions and answers about traveling to Laos1. 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.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Answer:</span> 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.<br /><br /><br /></span>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?<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Answer:</span> 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:<br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours.html">http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours.html </a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours-luang-prabang-itinerary.html">http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours-luang-prabang-itinerary.html</a><br /></span><br />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.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Answer: </span>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.<br /></span><br />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<br />to Vang Vieng? Heading to famous Luang Prabang for 2 nights..How to go to Hanoi after Luang Prabang?<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Answer: </span>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.<br /><br /></span>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?<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Answer: </span>Yes, flying is the best option.<br /><br /></span>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?<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Answer: </span>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.<br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/08/learn-lao-language.html"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Learn Lao</span></a><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">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.</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br /><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-6119758368194433202009-08-06T16:36:00.003+07:002009-08-24T09:36:15.080+07:00Naga Rockets and Wat Phabat Phonesane<span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Wat Naganimid phonesane was first build on the right hand side and 2 km from the national road to the Mekong river.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Wat Phabat Phonesane is the Lord of Buddha foot print temple and stupa. It is very beautiful place to visit and worship.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Wat phabat Phonesane and Wat Naganimid are not the same temples.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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).</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.<br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/08/learn-lao-language.html">Learn Lao language</a><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-68057617999484136532009-07-31T09:27:00.003+07:002009-10-13T09:23:18.206+07:00Boat racing festival and loy Krathong Ceremony<span style="font-family:arial;">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).</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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."</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Racing Boats Competition: </span><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.<br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/10/dos-and-dont-in-lao-culture.html"><br />Lao culture</a><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-91050526939565946322009-07-30T09:10:00.006+07:002009-07-31T10:35:24.574+07:00Buddhist Lent End<span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">In the next day, the 1st dark moon of the eleven month, boat racing is organized on the Mekong river.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >How to organize the ceremony: </span><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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."</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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."</span><br /><br />in front the others in <span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Illuminate ceremony: </span><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/tourist-spots-in-laos.html">Tourist spots in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-tourism.html">Laos tourism</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/two-tourist-attractions-in-laos.html">Tourist attractions in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/luang-prabang-first-class-flighttad-sae.html">Luang Prabang first class flight</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/boat-racing-festival-and-loy-krathong.html">Boat racing festival</a><br /><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-46419641559652887742009-07-21T10:01:00.010+07:002009-10-13T09:26:00.978+07:00Tourist spots in Laos<span style="font-weight: bold;">Sisavangvong, street of heritage city</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Buffalo Horn Mountain</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.<br /></span><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/10/dos-and-dont-in-lao-culture.html">Lao culture</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/08/learn-lao-language.html">Learn lao language</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/08/naga-rockets-and-wat-phabat-phonesane.html">Naga rockets and Wat Phabat Phonesane<br />Buddhist Lent End</a><br /><a href="http://www.travelfish.org/">http://www.travelfish.org/</a></span><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.itravelnet.com/destinations.html">itravelnet.com Destination Travel Guide</a><span style="font-family:arial;"> Worldwide travel and tourism information destination guides.</span><a href="http://www.blogcatalog.com/directory/travel"><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">http://www.blogcatalog.com/directory/trave</span>l</a><br /><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.theexpatdirectory.com/" target="_top">The Expat Directory</a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-57684649824380838972009-07-13T10:12:00.005+07:002009-07-16T11:08:04.486+07:00Laos work visa<span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Obtaining the Laos work permit, documents needed:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1. Passport</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2. B2 visa (1 year visa)</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">3. Resident card.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">4. photos.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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 </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-visa.html">Laos visa on arrival </a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.<br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-border-crossing.html">Laos visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/cost-of-living-in-laos.html">Cost of living in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-tourism.html">Laos tourism</a><br /><a href="http://laos-news-info.blogspot.com/">Laos news</a><br /><a href="http://www.travelingo.org">Tips from Backpackers</a> - Travel tips and guides by Backpackers<br /><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-62928576446909260882009-07-09T09:30:00.010+07:002009-09-14T11:20:05.011+07:00Laos Airlines Announcement<span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-family:arial;" >Pakse airport will close for 2 months.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">We would like then to inform that our previous notice is replaced by this one.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.<br /><br />(Vientiane times) Champasack province, Pakse Airport will be close from July to the end of August for repairing work.<br />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.<br /><br />These parts are needed to be fixed to ensure a smooth return to earth for planes, their passenger and cargo.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />To facilitate the construction, the airport would be closed from July 1 to September.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />It was the responsibility of Lao airlines to serve those passengers to ensure they reached their destination.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">For more information please contact Lao airlines office:</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Address: pangkham street P.O.Box 6441, Vientiane Lao PDR.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tel:</span> (+856 21) 212-016.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fax:</span> (+856 21) 212-058.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email:</span> info@laoairlines.com</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Website: </span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.laoairlines.com">www.laoairlines.com</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Once again we do apologize for the changed.<br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/09/lao-airlines-special-discount-for.html"><span style="font-size:100%;">Lao airlines discount</span></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-airlines-special-discount-domestic.html">Laos airlines promotion</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-airlines-announcement.html">Laos airlines announcement</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-border-crossing.html">Laos visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-visa.html">Laos tourist visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/cost-of-living-in-laos.html">Cost of living in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-tourism.html">Laos tourism</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/introduction-to-laos.html">Introduction to Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-jobs.html">Laos jobs</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-elephant-festival-in-paklay.html">Laos elephant festival</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/hotels-in-vangvieng.html">Hotels in Vangvieng</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/luang-prabang-first-class-flighttad-sae.html">Luang Prabang first class flight</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours.html">Vientiane itinerary</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours-luang-prabang-itinerary.html">Luang Prabang itinerary</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/two-tourist-attractions-in-laos.html">Tourist attraction in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/list-of-lao-hotels.html">Vientiane Hotels</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/hotels-in-lungprabang.html">Luang Prabang hotels</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/travel-to-laos-laos-transportation.html">Laos transportation</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/management-of-two-world-heritage-sites.html">Management of two World heritage sites in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-embassies-abroad.html">Laos embassies abroad</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/foreign-embassies-in-laos.html">Foreign embassies in Laos</a><br /><br /></span></span><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-81148364683416599392009-07-03T14:56:00.003+07:002009-07-21T10:08:41.584+07:00Laos tourism<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-family:arial;" >More revolutionary hideouts revealed to public </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">More caves used by Lao revolutionary figures as hideouts during the struggle for independence have been unveiled to the public.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The opening of the caves will boost Laos tourism numbers in the province and benefits students and researchers of Lao history.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The revolutionary leaders used the protection afforded by mountains to create offices, meeting rooms and shelters for themselves and Laos revolutionary Party members.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Viengxay is increasingly being visited by foreigners and Lao people, esspecially those iterested in history.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">LNTA plans to develop the caves to enable visitors to fully understand the role the site played in the nation's struggle for independence.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">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.</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >How to get there</span><span style="font-family:arial;">: a bus from the northern bus terminal in Vientiane takes about sixteen hours to reach Vienxay district in Huaphan province.<br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-border-crossing.html">Laos visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-visa.html">Laos tourist visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/cost-of-living-in-laos.html">Cost of living in Laos</a><br /></span><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/tourist-spots-in-laos.html"><span style="font-family:arial;">Tourist spots in Laos</span></a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-66818746762785604772009-07-03T13:58:00.011+07:002009-07-13T10:38:40.077+07:00Laos jobs<span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >1. English teacher wanted: Santisouk Montessori Pre-school</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" > </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >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.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >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.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >Here's the address of the school:</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >P.O.BOX 5340</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >Vientiane, Laos P.D.R</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tel:</span> (+856 21) 312-342</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email:</span> smps@laotel.com</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Website:</span> www.santisoukmontessori.org</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Source:</span> Vientiane times newspaper </span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >2. Volunteers needed: Vientiane Times</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >Vientiane Times requires volunteers to help with editing. We will bear some basic expenses if required.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >Application from organizations as well as individuals are welcome.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >Qualification:</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >- Native English speaker.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >- Background in journalism.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >- Keen to learn about local culture.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >For more information please contact Vientiane Times, Pangkham Rd, Vientiane.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tel:</span> (+856 21) 216-364, 217-593</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fax:</span> (856 21) 216-365, 252-631</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email:</span> editor@vientianetimes.org.la</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" >Closing date: July, 30, 2009</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">Source:</span> Vientiane times newspaper<br /><br /><span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://laos-news-info.blogspot.com/">Laos news</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-work-visa.html">Laos work visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-border-crossing.html">laos visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-visa.html">Laos tourist visa</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/cost-of-living-in-laos.html">cost of living in laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-tourism.html">Laos tourism</a></span><br /></span><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-airlines-special-discount-domestic.html">Laos airlines promotion</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-airlines-announcement.html">Laos airlines announcement</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/introduction-to-laos.html">Introduction to Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/07/laos-jobs.html">Laos jobs</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-elephant-festival-in-paklay.html">Laos elephant festival</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/hotels-in-vangvieng.html">Hotels in Vangvieng</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/luang-prabang-first-class-flighttad-sae.html">Luang Prabang first class flight</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours.html">Vientiane itinerary</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-tours-luang-prabang-itinerary.html">Luang Prabang itinerary</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/two-tourist-attractions-in-laos.html">Tourist attraction in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/list-of-lao-hotels.html">Vientiane Hotels</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/hotels-in-lungprabang.html">Luang Prabang hotels</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/travel-to-laos-laos-transportation.html">Laos transportation</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/management-of-two-world-heritage-sites.html">Management of two World heritage sites in Laos</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-embassies-abroad.html">Laos embassies abroad</a><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/foreign-embassies-in-laos.html">Foreign embassies in Laos</a></span></span><br /><span style=";font-family:courier new;font-size:130%;" ><br /></span>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-61570206793466943962009-06-29T14:53:00.005+07:002009-07-01T13:34:01.234+07:00Hotels in Vangvieng<a style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.thavonsouk.com/">Thavisouk Hotel & Resort in Vangvieng Laos</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tel:</span> (+856 23)511-096, (+856 20)760-7111,570-3111,(+856-21)414-149 </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fax :</span> (+856 23)511-215 </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email:</span> thavonsouk@hotmail.com</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Website:</span><a style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.thavonsouk.com/">www.thavonsouk.com</a><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.theelephantcrossinghotel.com/">The Elephant Crossing Hotel</a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Address: </span>Vang Vieng, Lao PDR </span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Ban Viengkeo, Vang Vieng District,</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Vientiane Province, Lao PDR.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">PO Box 5512,</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Vientiane Lao PDR.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tel/Fax: </span>(+856 23) 511-232</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mobile: </span>(+856 20) 560-2830 or 245-4730</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Email:</span> info@theelephantcrossinghotel.com</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Website: </span><a style="font-family: arial; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.theelephantcrossinghotel.com/">www.theelephantcrossinghotel.com</a><br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.vansanahotel-group.com/">Vansana Vang Vieng District</a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Address:</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> Ban sysavang, Vientiane Province</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Tel: </span><span style="font-family:arial;">(+856 23) 511-598-9, 511-600-1</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Fax: </span><span style="font-family:arial;">(+856-23) 511-602</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Email : </span><span style="font-family:arial;">info@vansanahotel-group.com</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Website:</span> <a style="font-family: arial; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.vansanahotel-group.com/">www.vansanahotel-group.com</a><br /><br /><a style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.villanamsong.com/">Villa Nam song </a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Address:</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> Vang Vieng - Laos</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Tel:</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> (+856 23) 511-637</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Tel/Fax:</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> (+856 23) 511-016</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Email:</span><span style="font-family:arial;"> reservation@villanamsong.com</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:arial;" >Website: </span><a style="font-family: arial; color: rgb(51, 51, 255);" href="http://www.villanamsong.com/">www.villanamsong.com</a><br /><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-elephant-festival-in-paklay.html">Laos elephant festival</a> <br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/luang-prabang-first-class-flighttad-sae.html">Luang Prabang first class flight</a> <br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/lao-border-crossing.html">Laos travel visa</a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-59886768455695218372009-06-23T09:59:00.003+07:002009-06-29T09:41:05.533+07:00Laos Elephant festival in Paklay district(From Laos Cultural magazine)-<span style="font-weight: bold;">Travel to Laos<br /></span>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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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."<br /><br />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.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/05/cost-of-living-in-laos.html">Cost of living in Laos</a> <br /><a href="http://traveltolaostips.blogspot.com/2009/06/laos-visa.html">Laos tourist visa</a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8236419895443432890.post-32027102279423245982009-06-22T15:29:00.004+07:002009-06-22T15:54:10.839+07:00Luang Prabang first class flight(Tad Sae waterfall)<span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Heartbeats and natural highs on jungle journey</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /><br />(<span style="font-size:100%;">From Vientiane times newspaper</span>) 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.<br /><br />A fear of heights is far from rare, but is also a serious business when one is high up in a rain forest canopy.<br /><br />I had little time to ponder my fate as I prepared to fly like Tarzan through the treetops in </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Luang Prabang</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> province recently.<br /><br />Contrary to what you are probably thinking, this was not a case of jungle fever getting the better of me.<br /><br />The answer came in the form of zip lines, also known as aerial runway, mini cable car, or the mighty flying fox.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />There are a total of 19 platforms on this particular nature-soaked 1km journey.<br /><br />The space between tree platforms starts at 35 meters, and then gets progressively longer.<br /><br />Between platforms 9 and 10 is the longest gap, a distance of 200 meters.<br /><br />Based in the treetops around </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Tad Sae waterfall</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> in </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Luang Prabang</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> province, the cable run encompasses some breathtaking views.<br /><br />World heritage-listed </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Luang Prabang</span><span style="font-size:130%;"> is well known as one of the country’s most popular tourist sites for experience culture.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />The flight of nature begins 16 km south of Luang Prabang on Northern Road No. 13.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />It is usually in full flow from august to March, the best time to view the cascades and take a dip.<br /><br />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.<br />When the water is tumbling over the rocks, the freshness of the scene will relax you.<br />While that wasn’t the case today, it was still a more than enjoyable trip.<br /><br />But anyway, back to the task at hand.<br /><br />After a five minute hike, I was at the start of what promised to be unforgettable journey.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Finally, I decided to join them after being promised that two guide would help me to complete the run in one piece.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />With my pride at stake, my recalcitrant legs dared to move and before I knew it. I was flying off towards the second platform.<br /><br />My legs had not yet been cured of the shakes when the guide told me that I now had no choice but to continue.<br /><br />So I redoubled my courage and set my sights on eventually reaching the 19th and final platform.<br /><br />While I was busy shaking sweating and agonizing, my two relatives were all smile.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />However, my heart rate gathered pace on the journey from platform 9 to 10, the longest point between footholds.<br /><br />At this point we had to use a pre-prepared piece of bamboo to help with the braking process.<br /><br />Our guide for the flight, Mr.Suchat, told us the drill.<br /><br />“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.”<br /><br />“ 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.<br /><br />But if you brakes too soon you could also be in trouble.<br /><br />“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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />Meanwhile at some stations you have to lift your legs to avoid the tree branches below.<br /><br />Most of the high stations boast beautiful views when seen from the platforms. Nearing the end of the ride you pass by waterfall.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />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.<br /><br />The Tad Sea flight of nature opened in May.<br /><br />Guide Mr. Sichat said about 70 people had so far attempted the ride, most of whom had been foreigners.<br /><br />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 </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Luang prabang</span><span style="font-size:130%;">.<br /><br />Source: Vientiane time newspaper :</span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://www.blogger.com/www.vientianetimes.org.la/">Vientiane times</a>Noknoyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12444770666255429602noreply@blogger.com1