Laos

Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia located between China, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. Despite being right by super-popular countries for tourists, it remains relatively undiscovered. It is still not overly developed, has an old-world charm, and has the perfect combination of adventure, nature, and culture.

Quick Laos Guide

Currency: Lao Kip (LAK). While the official currency is Kip, US Dollars and Thai Baht are widely accepted for larger purchases (like tours or hotels). The exchange rate is currently around $1 = 21,400 LAK (see latest rates here) and the country has a cash-based economy. So you will need to get money exchanged often and carry around a lot of currency notes! Just remember to get them exchanged back to USD or THB before leaving.

Language: Lao (Sabaidee = Hello; Khop Chai = Thank you).

Best Time to Visit: November to early February is the “cool and dry” season, which is perfect for sightseeing and seeing the waterfalls at their bluest. Do not visit between late February and April, as it is ‘slash and burn’ season and air quality deteriorates heavily. Between May and October, Laos has quite a bit of rainfall.

Visa

Most nationalities require a visa to enter Laos, including those from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most European countries. Visa-free entry is limited primarily to ASEAN countries and a few other specific countries. Most tourists can get a Visa on Arrival ($40 in cash + 2 photos needed) or an e-Visa for up to 30 days ($50), which takes 3 days and saves you from the queue at immigration. Highly recommend get the e-Visa!