Welcome to Laos 😊

Quick Facts About Laos

Money and Finances

The official currency of Laos is Lao kip (LAK). Coins come in denominations of 10, 20, and 50 att, as well as 1, 2, and 5 kip. Banknotes come in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, and 100,000 kip.

ATM Network

ATMs can be found in major cities and tourist areas, but they may not always be reliable. It's recommended to carry enough cash with you, especially if traveling to remote areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are accepted at some hotels, restaurants, and shops in the larger cities, but may not be widely accepted in more rural areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, while AMEX may have limited acceptance.

Internet and Phones

The average internet speed in Laos is relatively slow, with an average download speed of 7.9 Mbps and upload speed of 4.4 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several telco companies operating in Laos including Lao Telecom, Unitel, and Beeline. The average cost of a mobile phone plan with data is around $15-20 USD per month. Sim cards are widely available and there are no significant compatibility issues.

Dialling to Laos

To call Laos from another country, dial +856 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes used within Laos are 20 for Vientiane, 30 for Luang Prabang, and 71 for Savannakhet among others.

Transport Around Laos

Air Travel

Lao Airlines is the main airline of Laos, with major airports located in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Laos.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro system in Laos.

Buses

Buses are the main form of inter-city transportation in Laos, with prices ranging from $5-$30 depending on the distance and quality of the bus. Popular routes include Vientiane to Luang Prabang and Vientiane to Pakse.

Rideshare

Grab is the main rideshare company operating in Laos, with prices starting from $2 for short trips.

Driving by Car

Driving is generally easy in Laos, with speed limits ranging from 40-60 km/h in cities and 80 km/h on highways. Laos is a right-hand drive country.

Local Customs

In Laos, tipping is not expected, but it is appreciated for excellent service. Locals greet each other with the traditional wai, or pressing their palms together in front of their face and inclining their head slightly. Speaking with strangers is generally formal and polite. Men and women generally address each other with a handshake rather than kissing on the cheek, and it’s important to speak respectfully to elders and those in positions of authority.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Laos has a basic healthcare system with limited resources. Medical facilities and services are limited, even in the capital city of Vientiane. Most doctors and medical facilities require upfront payment in cash. Health insurance is strongly recommended for travelers to Laos. A visit to a doctor may cost around $20-50.

COVID Situation

Laos has handled the COVID-19 pandemic well and has reported low numbers of cases and deaths. As of August 2021, there have been a total of 8,399 confirmed cases and 10 deaths in the country. The government has implemented measures such as mandatory quarantine for incoming travelers and restrictions on public gatherings to prevent the spread of the virus.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common health risk in Laos, especially in rural areas. Travelers should take precautions such as using mosquito repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets. Food and waterborne illnesses, such as diarrhea, are also common in Laos. Travelers should avoid consuming food and drinks from street vendors and stick to bottled or boiled water.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Laos, alcohol consumption is legal and socially accepted. However, authorities have been cracking down on drunken behavior in recent years, and it is illegal to drink and drive. There are also restrictions on alcohol sales during certain holidays and events.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use in Laos is strictly forbidden and can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and even the death penalty. This includes both soft drugs such as cannabis and party drugs like Ecstasy.

Pre-Marital Relationships

In Laos, pre-marital relationships are not illegal, but they are often frowned upon by conservative members of society. Generally, Laos is a conservative country and public displays of affection are not common.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Despite progress being made in recent years, Laos remains socially conservative and LGBTQ individuals are not yet fully accepted. Homosexuality is not illegal, but public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. Same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in Laos.

Firearms / Guns

Laos has strict laws on firearms, and civilians are generally not allowed to own guns. Illegal possession of firearms can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or even the death penalty.

Regions in Laos

There are many wonderful regions to visit in Laos, browse through each to see what to visit.

113 Popular Travel Destinations in Laos