Make sure you practice your ‘nop’…
This hidden gem of a country has only recently opened its doors to tourism, and remains largely untouched by modern developments.
In the capital, Vientiane, you’ll discover mostly traditional and colonial architecture, while the mountainous, jungle-covered countryside is studded with Buddhist temples and impressive monuments. A wonderful array of adventures await in beautiful Laos.
Our holidays in Laos
Culture and history |
Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is one of the world's few remaining communist states - and is also one of the poorest countries in southeast Asia. The Lao people greet one another with a prayer-like gesture called a ‘nop’. You should be aware that photographing military sites, including bridges and airfields, is not allowed in Laos and can result in arrest or detention. When visiting temples and religious sites during holidays in Laos, you are expected to wear suitable clothing and to be respectful of the Lao culture. For example, you should not photograph monks in or around the temples. Women should also cover their shoulders, including when swimming in waterfalls. |
Flight time |
The flight from London to Luang Prabang takes about 13 hours 40 minutes, so you can enjoy a film or two before arriving on holidays in Laos. |
Currency |
Kip - The Lao Kip (LAK) is divided into 100 cents with notes for 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 Kip. |
Passports and visas |
It’s a legal requirement in Laos to carry ID (your passport should be fine) and you could be fined for not having it with you. You will also need a tourist visa to enter, but we’ll arrange this for you as part of your holiday booking. Visit GOV.UK for more advice on passports and visas. |
Phrases |
A few words of Lao Good morning – ton sao thi di Good afternoon – ton bait hi di Thank you – kho khob chai than Hello – sa bai di Yes – aemn aelv No – b mi |
Timezone |
Laos is 7 hours ahead of GMT. |
Electricity |
All sockets take small round two-pin plugs so you’ll need an adaptor to run most British appliances. |
Language |
French - The official language is Lao, although many tribal languages are spoken here too. In places, French, Vietnamese and English are also spoken. |
Tipping |
Tipping is not customary as a service charge is usually included in restaurants bills. If it hasn’t been included, a tip of 10% of the bill is appreciated. |
Climate |
The climate is mostly hot and tropical, reaching a peak during the rainy season between May and October. If you’re venturing into the mountains during holidays in Laos, temperatures will be much cooler, especially during the night. |
Health |
Water borne, food borne and other infectious diseases, such as typhoid fever, do occur from time to time. You should also be aware that flying insects, such as mosquitoes, are common in this part of the world; you may find it helpful to wear long-sleeved shirts, full-length trousers and use mosquito repellent. As health information can change at any time, we’d advise you to consult your GP at least 12 weeks before departure. Country-specific information and advice on possible health risks is also published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office provides important health and safety information for British nationals travelling abroad. |
Population and size |
The population of Laos is just under 7 million, with around 80% of them living in rural villages. Landlocked in South East Asia, Laos covers an area of around 236,800 square kilometres, which makes it a little smaller than the United Kingdom. |
Smoking |
Smoking in public places is now banned and fines are considerable, so it's worth remembering these laws during your holidays in Laos to avoid unnecessary stress. |
Culture and historyLaos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is one of the world's few remaining communist states - and is also one of the poorest countries in southeast Asia. The Lao people greet one another with a prayer-like gesture called a ‘nop’. You should be aware that photographing military sites, including bridges and airfields, is not allowed in Laos and can result in arrest or detention. When visiting temples and religious sites during holidays in Laos, you are expected to wear suitable clothing and to be respectful of the Lao culture. For example, you should not photograph monks in or around the temples. Women should also cover their shoulders, including when swimming in waterfalls. |
Flight timeThe flight from London to Luang Prabang takes about 13 hours 40 minutes, so you can enjoy a film or two before arriving on holidays in Laos. |
CurrencyKip - The Lao Kip (LAK) is divided into 100 cents with notes for 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000 and 50,000 Kip. |
Passports and visasIt’s a legal requirement in Laos to carry ID (your passport should be fine) and you could be fined for not having it with you. You will also need a tourist visa to enter, but we’ll arrange this for you as part of your holiday booking. Visit GOV.UK for more advice on passports and visas. |
PhrasesA few words of Lao Good morning – ton sao thi di Good afternoon – ton bait hi di Thank you – kho khob chai than Hello – sa bai di Yes – aemn aelv No – b mi |
TimezoneLaos is 7 hours ahead of GMT. |
ElectricityAll sockets take small round two-pin plugs so you’ll need an adaptor to run most British appliances. |
LanguageFrench - The official language is Lao, although many tribal languages are spoken here too. In places, French, Vietnamese and English are also spoken. |
TippingTipping is not customary as a service charge is usually included in restaurants bills. If it hasn’t been included, a tip of 10% of the bill is appreciated. |
ClimateThe climate is mostly hot and tropical, reaching a peak during the rainy season between May and October. If you’re venturing into the mountains during holidays in Laos, temperatures will be much cooler, especially during the night. |
HealthWater borne, food borne and other infectious diseases, such as typhoid fever, do occur from time to time. You should also be aware that flying insects, such as mosquitoes, are common in this part of the world; you may find it helpful to wear long-sleeved shirts, full-length trousers and use mosquito repellent. As health information can change at any time, we’d advise you to consult your GP at least 12 weeks before departure. Country-specific information and advice on possible health risks is also published by the National Travel Health Network and Centre and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office provides important health and safety information for British nationals travelling abroad. |
Population and sizeThe population of Laos is just under 7 million, with around 80% of them living in rural villages. Landlocked in South East Asia, Laos covers an area of around 236,800 square kilometres, which makes it a little smaller than the United Kingdom. |
SmokingSmoking in public places is now banned and fines are considerable, so it's worth remembering these laws during your holidays in Laos to avoid unnecessary stress. |