Population of approximately 7.5 million.
Lao is the official language, with many ethnic minority languages spoken.
Capital: Vientiane; Major Cities: Luang Prabang, Pakse, Savannakhet
A laid-back culture with strong Buddhist influences. Respect for elders, traditional music, and folk dances are significant. Rural areas maintain an agricultural lifestyle centered around rice farming.
Lao Kip (LAK), symbol: ?. It is a non-convertible currency, and many transactions, especially large ones, use Thai Baht or U.S. dollars.
Famous for sticky rice, laap (minced meat salad), tam mak hoong (spicy papaya salad), and mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaves).
Tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid conditions. Distinct wet (May-October) and dry (November-April) seasons.
Notable wildlife includes Indochinese tigers, Asian elephants, sun bears, gibbons, and Irrawaddy dolphins.
Cultural Considerations
Respect for religion: Buddhism is the dominant religion, and when visiting temples or religious sites, it�s important to dress modestly and show respect to monks and religious figures.
Modesty in dress: Dress modestly, especially when visiting temples or rural areas. Women should avoid wearing short skirts or revealing tops.
Respect for elders: Elders are highly respected in Laos, and it�s customary to greet them first and show deference.
Avoid public displays of affection: Public displays of affection, such as kissing or hugging, should be avoided, especially in more rural or traditional areas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visa requirements for U.S. travelers?
For up-to-date visa requirements, please visit our Visas & Entry Requirements page. You can use our interactive widget to easily check specific visa details, or find useful links and information related to entry requirements.
What are health and safety considerations for travelers?
Laos has a limited healthcare system, and travelers should ensure they have travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Malaria is a risk in rural areas, so travelers should take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent. Tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled water should be consumed. It is advisable to have up-to-date vaccinations for hepatitis A, B, and typhoid.