Women shouldn't touch monks and 13 other things you should know about Laos (15 photos)

Laos is a mysterious country with its own characteristics and rules. What should tourists know before heading to this Asian paradise?





When it comes to Southeast Asia, many people immediately talk about places like Vietnam, Malaysia, Thai Phuket or huge Bangkok. But no one thinks about Laos, perceiving it as a small state, shrouded in mysticism and secrets. Most tourists simply do not consider it as a travel destination, but in vain. What do you need to keep in mind before traveling to this wonderful corner of the planet?

This is no less developed country than Cambodia or Nepal

Of course, a small Asian state does not have to compete with the sharks of the political map, but even there you can find your own laws, rules, traditions and culture.



Leisurely country

Laos is home to some of the most hospitable people in Asia, but they do not like to rush: they rarely arrive on time or open their shops and cafes at the start of the working day. Buses also don't often arrive on schedule, and everything seems to move at a smooth and measured pace. The only exceptions are planes of international airlines, which always arrive on time.





Laotian food is a real mystery

It resembles three cuisines mixed together: Thai, Vietnamese and Cambodian, but the dishes are more sour than spicy. Particularly popular are marinated meats and local Lao beer.



The river is life

Many rivers flow through Laos, but the largest is the Mekong. It is on this that the entire existence of the country’s inhabitants is concentrated. People not only go fishing or rafting, but also use the river as a “shopping center”, setting up huge floating bazaars.



Landlocked, but there are 4,000 islands

Almost all the islands are located on the same Mekong River. Most of the islands have sandy beaches, and the largest ones are equipped with recreation areas for tourists.



There is a difference between north and south

In ancient times, they were considered separate kingdoms vying for power and land. Therefore, in the north and south there are completely different types of attractions, different traditions and different people. Tourists prefer the north, where wide rivers flow and the nature is more colorful and varied.



French influence is felt

For just over 50 years, Laos was considered a French colony and gained independence only after World War II. But over these 50 years, residents adopted a lot of French borrowings that still reign in the country: the French language, pancakes and croissants in cafes for breakfast, as well as many colonial-style buildings. By the way, most of the tourists in Laos are French, who prefer a foreign country, but their own language.



Cheap hot air balloon flights

Many people dream of a little adventure like flying in a hot air balloon, and Laos has the lowest prices in Asia, not exceeding $70-80.



Women are prohibited from touching monks

This is part of the ancient Laotian culture: monks are pure and respected people, and touching them is considered disrespectful. Moreover, even ordinary people do not tolerate such a simple thing as a handshake, perceiving it as rudeness. Want to say hello to a Laotian? Cross your arms across your chest and bow your head.



Watch your step

In parks or temples, Laotians may sit on the floor or on the ground, and in no case should you step over them, so as not to appear as an impudent rude person. Also, when visiting a temple, you should not point your toes at the Buddha statue - this is extreme disrespect for religion.



Hello and thank you

If you learn these two words in Lao and use them when talking with locals, you will evoke a lot of positive emotions and be known as a good person who honors other people's traditions. They are easy to remember: sa bai di is translated as “hello”, and khob chai is translated as “thank you”.



Laos is quite dusty

Upon arrival, you can see many people wearing masks, and this is not at all due to the next wave of coronavirus. Laos is a dusty region where the wind blows a lot of sand into the air, so people wear respirators and protective masks. In addition, it is worth stocking up on body cream - the skin dries quickly.



Ecotourism instead of parties

In the past, the most visited places among travelers, such as Vang Vieng, were famous for their noisy parties, rivers of alcohol and dancing until the early hours. But now the country wants to become a mecca for ecotourists, and instead of nightclubs it is opening various sports sections where people maintain a healthy body and a healthy mind.



Laotian New Year

This holiday takes place from April 13 to 16 and is considered the brightest and most cheerful. In addition, April is the best month to visit the country, when the heat reaches its peak at +40°C, and everything around is shrouded in greenery and flowers.