Situated in the heart of French
Indochina,
Laos is one of the poorest and least
visited countries in the world. Its isolation from foreign influence offers travellers
an unparalleled glimpse of traditional Southeast Asian life. The Lao people are
known for their gentle polite nature and for their charming hospitality.
The capital
Vientiane, located on a curve of the Mekong River, is interesting and attractive
with its old town, ancient temples and tree linear boulevards. To the north, the
UNESCO World Heritage Site of the incredibly romantic Luang Prabang should be considered
a must see where there are many high river valleys along the Mekong River and its
major attributes. In the south the Angkor era temple of Wat Phu is one of the jewels
of the Mekong.
When to go?
The ideal time to visit
Laos is the cool season between November and February. By
November, the rains are usually over, all rivers are navigable and roads are passable.
The hot season (March to May) is very dry. During this season, some rivers are harder
to navigate and boat journeys in remote places may not be accessible. Travellers
should take the Lao New Year (14th - 16th April) into account when planning a trip
as accommodation may be harder to find.
The rainy season (June to October) whilst
the country at its most beautiful and lush can be difficult to get around in remote
places by road.
What to do?
The capital
Vientiane, located on a curve of the Mekong River, is
interesting and attractive with its old town, ancient temples and tree linear boulevards.
To the north, Luang Prabang offers chances for light trekking tours to surrounding
rivers and hills (i.e. Mount Phousi, Kuang Si Waterfalls). In the south the Angkor
era temple of Wat Phu is one of the jewels of the Mekong.
For adventurers, tours
off beaten track to remote areas and villages including mountainous Luang Namtha
or the Bolaven Plateau in
Champassak.
