Laos is a small country smack in the middle of Southeast Asia, often overshadowed by its neighbour countries. It doesn’t have the size of China, nor the popularity of Thailand, nor the excitement of Cambodia and Vietnam. However, believe us, here are the top 5 reasons why you would be crazy to not visit this beautiful country!
The typical landscape you can find in Laos
Marvellous Nature
Laos is nature’s marvel, where you can explore mountains, travel on its rivers (or simply swim in them), explore the countryside and take a splash at gorgeous waterfalls.
You can travel along the Mekong by boat or visit the Kuang Si waterfalls near Luang Prabang. Great villages to use as bases to explore the mountains are Muong Ngoi and Nong Khiaw. The villages have a relaxed environment, with plenty of cheap bungalows with hammocks on the balcony. Here you can fuel your readings or philosophical reflections (and perhaps taking a nap too!).
If trekking is your thing, a good base as well is Luang Namtha in the far north, near the border with China. There, you can also experience different ethnic communities and their cultures.
The river that passes through Muong Ngoi and Nong Khiaw.
Another great place in terms of nature is the area around Thakhek and Ban Nahim, with lots of caves to explore and even a famous climbing spot. Even if not 100% natural, don’t miss the vast amount of coffee plantations in the south of Laos, on the Plateau Bolaven!
A cave waiting for you, a perfect place to cool down from Asian tropical climate.
Architectural Gems
Of course, being a Buddhist country, Laos is not only a natural wonder but has lots of architectural gems. The beautiful temples in Luang Prabang are a must see. Besides the capital, Vientiane, the whole country maintains a tradition of cute wooden houses that are wonderful to visit. Try some homestay in a village to get the full experience of living with a local family and experiencing their everyday life.
Smiling People & Street Life
Here is the other highlight of your Laotian trip: the population has a very simple and humble life. Especially in the south you will be greeted by countless smiles.
Hello!
Also, as in other Asian country, it’s always interesting to pay attention to the street life happening all around you…
Street manicure in Vientiane.
Laos Secret War – Viengxai
We cannot forget the past conflicts the country suffered, especially the American secret bombings during the Vietnam War that damaged both Laos and Cambodia. An interesting place to visit related to this dark historical period is Viengxai. Here thousands of people were hiding in a complex system of caves and tunnels, basically an underground city, built to survive the bomb and napalm attacks.
Relaxation
Last but not least, Laos is the perfect place for some quietness and relaxation. For instance the 4000 islands in the south are filled with places with cheap accommodation and a relaxing environment. You will probably want to stay for a while…
View from a bungalow in the Don Det island, just a couple of meters from the mighty Mekong.
Hope we gave you enough reasons to explore this beautiful country! Check the Camboticket website: there are all the ways to go from Phnom Penh to Don Det (in 4000 islands), Pakse and Vientiane, and from Siem Reap to Don Det, Don Khon (also in 4000 islands) or Pakse.