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Hotels in Laos – The Fascination of Southeast Asia
Think a vacation in Asia is just about palm-lined beaches, parties, and hustle and bustle? Think again! In Laos, Southeast Asia reveals its untouched, peaceful side. A trip to Laos unveils a fascinating country full of natural beauty, offering the perfect escape to unwind.
As the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, Laos has no coastline — but that shouldn’t stop you from visiting. Quite the opposite! Laos shares its borders with China and Myanmar to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west. The northern region is covered in dense, forested mountains, while the southern plains are shaped by the mighty Mekong River.
But don’t worry — you won’t have to miss out on a beach experience on your Lais trip. The magical beaches of the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) in the Mekong Delta offer the perfect setting for relaxation. Intrigued? With our travel to Laos tips, nothing will stand in the way of your next Southeast Asian adventure!
Travel to Laos: General Travel Information
Visa and entry into Laos
Visitors from the USA can obtain a Visa on Arrival when entering Laos, allowing a stay of up to 30 days. This visa costs approximately $30 and is available at major international airports, including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse, and Savannakhet. To be eligible, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your entry date and have at least one blank visa page.
Alternatively, travelers can apply for an eVisa online before departure, which is valid for entry at select ports, including Wattay International Airport (Vientiane), Luang Prabang International Airport, and Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge I (Vientiane–Nong Khai border crossing).
If entering Laos via a land border that does not accept eVisas or Visa on Arrival, you must apply for a visa in advance through a Lao embassy or consulate. Travelers may also be asked to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds for their stay.
To avoid issues, ensure you receive an entry stamp upon arrival, as failure to do so can result in fines or complications when exiting the country. For the latest requirements, visit the US Department of State travel website or the Embassy of Laos in Washington, DC.
Laos at a glance
Size: 91,120 square miles
Population: 7 million
Currency: Laos Kip
Time Zone: GMT +6
Language: Lao
Main Religion: Buddhism
Nickname: “Land of a Million Elephants”
Best Time to Travel to Laos
Like many Asian countries, Laos has two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to October, with the monsoon bringing lush greenery to the landscape. However, October tends to be drier, making it a great time to visit if you prefer to avoid peak tourist crowds.
The dry season runs from November to April, with its hottest period between March and April. This is when the landscape can become quite dry.
Flights to Laos: Best Travel Time From October – February
Average Temperatures (May – October): 88°F (31°C)
Average Sunshine Hours (May – October): 5.6 hours/day
Average Temperatures (November – April): 87°F (30.5°C)
Average Sunshine Hours (November – April): 9 hours/day
Helpful Tips for Laos Travel
While Laos is no longer a hidden gem, travelers should still take some health precautions to avoid any unpleasant surprises — especially stomach issues that could put a damper on your adventure. Follow these tips to stay healthy and make the most of your trip:
Drink only safe water.
Be cautious with dairy
Cook meat and fish thoroughly
Peel fruits before eating
Eat only cooked vegetables
By following these simple precautions, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the beauty and culture of Laos without any unwanted setbacks!
Currency in Laos
The official currency in Laos is the Lao Kip (LAK). As of the latest exchange rate, 10,000 Kip is approximately $0.46 USD. However, exchange rates fluctuate, so it’s best to check before your trip.
When booking Laos hotels, do not rely on credit cards, as they are rarely accepted outside of major upscale establishments. Cash is the preferred payment method, and ATMs are limited, mostly found in major cities. To avoid issues, bring plenty of cash and exchange it at local currency exchange offices. Always double-check the exchange rate to ensure you receive the correct amount.
Top Destinations for a Laos Trip
Tourism in Laos is largely centered around the Mekong River, where you can explore the country on a scenic river cruise or visit some of its most famous travel destinations. If you prefer to venture off the beaten path, Laos also offers hidden gems waiting to be explored. Stay tuned for our top recommendations!
Vientiane
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is by far the country’s largest city and the only true metropolitan area. The city’s name originates from the French colonial period, though you’ll often hear its Lao name, Vieng Chan.
A stroll through Vientiane reveals stunning colonial architecture, while must-visit landmarks include the Pha That Luang, the country’s most important national monument, and the Lao Revolutionary Museum, which offers insight into Laos’ fascinating history.
Pirate tip: The distance between Luang Prabang and Vientiane may not look far on a map, but overland buses take around 10 hours to complete the journey. If you prefer comfort over endurance, consider taking a domestic flight, which is generally very affordable!
4,000 Islands - Si Phan Don
Think Laos doesn’t have beach destinations? Think again! In the southern part of the country, you’ll find the 4,000 Islands, also known as Si Phan Don. This tranquil paradise, far from the usual tourist crowds, offers a unique island experience along the Mekong River. Here, you can:
Spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins
Swim in the refreshing river waters
Take hiking tours to stunning waterfalls
Explore the islands by bicycle
Champassak
No trip to Laos is complete without visiting ancient temples, and the Champassak region, also in the south, is one of the best places to do so. This off-the-beaten-path destination is home to rich cultural heritage and the Wat Phou temple complex, a mystical UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alongside Luang Prabang, it’s one of the only two UNESCO-listed sites in Laos — perfect for history and architecture lovers.
Bolaven-Plateau
For those craving highland adventures, head to the Bolaven Plateau in Champasak Province. This elevated region is home to traditional hill tribes, offering a rare glimpse into Laos’ diverse ethnic cultures.
The plateau is also ideal for:
Multi-day motorbike or scooter tours
Exploring stunning waterfalls
Visiting coffee plantations
With its cool climate and breathtaking scenery, the Bolaven Plateau is a fantastic escape into Laos’ more remote landscapes.
Vang Vieng
Once known as a wild party destination for backpackers, Vang Vieng has undergone a major transformation. While “tubing” down the Mekong River is still popular, the days of excessive alcohol and reckless behavior are largely over. Today, Vang Vieng is a haven for nature lovers, offering stunning karst mountains, waterfalls, and caves to explore.
Pirate tip: Don’t let its past reputation deter you — Vang Vieng is now one of the best spots in Laos for outdoor adventures and breathtaking landscapes.
Luang Prabang
Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, Luang Prabang is one of Laos’ most popular travel destinations. This UNESCO-listed town is a cultural hub where French colonial architecture meets breathtaking Buddhist temples.
Must-do experiences:
Witness the Alms Giving Ceremony – At 6 AM on Sakkaline Road, Buddhist monks collect offerings from locals and visitors. If you choose to participate, dress modestly (covering shoulders and legs) out of respect.
Hike Mount Phou Si – For the best panoramic view of Luang Prabang, climb this sacred hill and take in a sunset you won’t forget.
With its charming old town, serene atmosphere, and deep cultural heritage, Luang Prabang is an unmissable stop in Laos.
Insider Laos Travel Tips
Houaphan Province
To wrap up our list of top destinations in Laos, here’s a true hidden gem for your next Southeast Asia adventure.
Located in the north of Laos, Houaphan Province shares a border with Vietnam, making it an excellent final stop if you’re planning a combined Laos-Vietnam itinerary.
Known as the “birthplace of modern Laos,” this region offers a glimpse into a lesser-known yet historically significant side of the country. One of its highlights is the Vieng Xai cave network, featuring over 100 breathtaking limestone caves that once served as a refuge during wartime.
For history lovers and off-the-beaten-path explorers, Houaphan is well worth the detour!
Food and Drink in Laos
Let’s be honest: Who doesn’t love eating like it’s your mom’s cooking, even while on vacation? Food is a huge part of Laos’ culture, and its Asian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored. So, bring your appetite and get ready to dive into the delicious world of Laotian food — fresh, spicy, and utterly delicious!
Khao Jee
Khao Jee is Laos’ version of a sandwich, and it’s the perfect snack on the go. A French baguette is filled with salad, carrots, tomatoes, and options like breakfast meats, ham, or pâté. To top it off, a generous helping of chili-garlic sauce is added. Spicy, as is typical in Laos, but oh-so-tasty!
Laab
Laab is a refreshing minced meat salad — yes, you read that right: salad and minced meat. The meat (often pork, chicken, beef, duck, or fish) is stir-fried with shallots and plenty of fresh chilies, giving it a bold and savory flavor. Add some fish sauce, lime juice, and herbs like mint and cilantro, and serve with sticky rice for a meal that will keep you coming back for more.
Mok Pa
Mok Pa is steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves, making for a fragrant and flavorful dish. The fish is combined with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, fish sauce, and chilies, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The result is a tender, aromatic dish that’s incredibly tasty and a must-try while in Laos!
Khao Piak Sen
As a final foodie tip for Laos, we bring you Khao Piak Sen — a delicious noodle soup. It’s one of the best street foods you can try while in Laos. This dish features rice noodles cooked in a savory fish broth and topped with your choice of beef, chicken, or pork. Fresh, crunchy vegetables complete the dish. Not only is Khao Piak Sen incredibly popular on the streets, but it also holds the distinction of being the oldest dish in Laos, meaning you’re tasting a piece of history with every bite.
And there you have it — our travel tips for your next Laos vacation. We hope we’ve helped bring the land, people, and culture a little closer to you. This hidden gem of Southeast Asia is definitely one you don’t want to miss on your next vacation. Book flights to Laos and enjoy!
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