Laos is where you are able to travel so extensively and eat so well for so little. The small crowd of travelers in Laos means no jacked-up prices. A rich culture and history, impressive waterfalls, 4,000 idyllic islands, hundreds of splendid temples, tantalizing cuisine, and adventures galore? Laos has everything available at often staggeringly low prices making it one of the best vacation destinations for travelers on a tight budget in Southeast Asia.
You do not need to stick to hostels, dingy (but tasty) local restaurant/cafe, and all means of public transport to save so much money. Even the most iconic destinations will only set you back a few bucks. A bus ride from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, for instance, only costs 120,000-170,000 kip (USD $14.5 – $20.55). A basic but comfortable bungalow costs under $10 while a shared tuk-tuk to Kuang Si Waterfalls costs a measly 30,000 kip (~ USD $3.63) per person. Not only that, food in Laos is also reasonable. Pull up a stool at a green papaya salad and sticky rice stall and for only a couple of dollars you will be eating some of the best food on offer, shoulder to shoulder with the Laotians.
The Landmarks
Much like the scenery in Laos, the landmarks are quite diverse. A country with the population of 7 million, Laos is a country with lots of different landmarks to visit and every city has something to see. You could spend a few days exploring the most ornate temples in Luang Prabang – the former royal capital and you still would not see it all. From the glittering golden roofs of Buddhist temples in Luang Prabang to some historic temples such as Wat Si Saket and That Luang in the capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vat Phou in Champasak Province in Southern Laos, there is something for everyone. Only by visiting as many landmarks in Laos as possible can you have an idea of what this mystical country holds.
A wide variety of adventure activities
If you are in need of an Indochina holiday away from the crowds, Laos has just what you are looking for. Rugged beauty abounds with Luang Namtha, Muang Sing, Vieng Phoukha, Muang Khoua, Kasi, and Thakhet providing plenty of remote places to enjoy the incredible nature’s bounty.
Laos is also an adventure lover’s dream! Besides the famous tubing of Nam Song in Vang Vieng, you can also trek out of Muang Long, in Phongsali & Luang Namtha, experience the Phongsali loop with a multi-day trek. Zip through the forest, rock climbing in Nong Kiau, and kayak to discover Xe Bang Fai river cave – one of the planet’s largest river caves are also not a bad idea. Whatever the case, Laos has it all.
Laos’ intriguing cuisine
A mix of Native Vietnamese, Thai, and of course Lao cuisine makes Lao dining a unique experience. A Khao Niaw (Sticky Rice), Laab (Minced Meat Salad), and Tam Mak Hoong (Papaya Salad), should be your favorites with every Laos’ city offering something different. But of course there is so, so, so much more to try such as Khao Piak Sen (Noodle Soup), Sai Oua (Lao smoky sausage), Mok Pa (Steamed fish in banana leaves), Ping Kai (grilled chicken dish), Luang Prabang Khao Soi noodles, spicy baguette sandwiches, “Mok pa” fish, etc.
Hotspots such as Luang Prabang travel, Vientiane, and Vang Vieng serve up more fine restaurants than you could possibly test in a single trip.however, it dóe not mean that you cannot find something to satisfy your appetite in the regions such as Plain of Jars, Huay Xai, Luang Nam Tha, or the Mekong River. Tasting their beautifully-presented and mouthwatering dishes is a great way to throw yourself into the Lao way of life! Don’t you feel hungry just reading this?
Laotians’ hospitality
As each individual has a unique background and upbringing, there is no one type of Laotian. However, if there is one thing all Laotians know, it is to show foreigners a really good time. All Laotians are extremely warm-hearted, welcoming, smiling, and friendly to foreign travelers. In addition to being immersed in Laotians’ hospitality, witnessing their multicultural way of living is also truly extraordinary.
From a relaxed atmosphere, a chilled out population, and the mouthwatering Lao menus to the epic views of untouched scenery, vibrant and diverse heritage, adventure activities, glorious nature times, some relaxed costs of travel, and lovely locals – Laos covers all bases! Go with your Laos tour guide and discover all that this landlocked country has to offer
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