Laos Travel Guide

Use this Laos travel guide to discover the country that is fast becoming the darling of Southeast Asia. Laos satisfies all the romantic images of perfumed frangipani trees, saffron-robed monks and golden temples. These are set amongst a rich tapestry of the tropical Mekong Islands, ethnic minority villages such as those near Luang Namtha, cascading waterfalls and vivid, green rice paddies, and bound together by the mighty Mekong River, the country’s lifeline. But the lasting impression is of the people and their overwhelming friendliness. This is a land that endures the terrible legacy of being the world's most bombed country per capita, yet its people radiate a sunny, happy disposition.

Laos Travel Guide Highlights
That Luang A symbol of Lao nationhood and the country's holiest site.	The Four Thousand Islands Laos' very own tropical archipelago.
Phonsavanh and the Plain of Jars See the bomb legacy and perplexing giant stone jars littered over the grasslands.	Houei Xai Take a boat along the Mekong from Luang Prabang to this riverside town, near the Gibbon Experience.
Luang Prabang A bijou city of golden temples with UNESCO World Heritage status.	Savannakhet Stroll around the crumbling colonial core and go trekking in the nearby Sacred Forest.
Muang Sing Visit the ethnic minority villages near Muang Sing in the northern highlands.	Wat Phou A tiered 12th-century Khmer archaeological site.
Vang Vieng On the Nam Song surrounded by jungle, this relaxed town is Laos' top activity spot.	Muang Ngoi Neua A laid-back town amid limestone karsts and paddies on a bend in the river.