OVERVIEW
Laos is a landlocked nation in the Southeast Asia, West of Vietnam and highlighted with the Mekong river flowing along the country. Laos is known as the country of temple towers and festivals. The beautiful country has numerous famous landscapes, pristine mountains, waterfalls and peaceful countryside. Ancient and solemn temple towers, friendly, open people can be found anywhere.
TIME TO GO
Laos has two distinct seasons. The dry season is from late October to April and the rainy season is from the early May to early October. Most of the year is hot and humid. The average temperature is about 28oC and rising to a maximum of 37oC during April and May.
The best time to travel to Laos is between November and April
The hot season is between March and May and very dry.
TIME ZONE:
It is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +7).
LANGUAGE
Lao is the official national language. Besides, Vietnamese, Thai and English are widely spoken.
CURRENCY
The official currency of Laos is Kip (LAK). However, USD, EUR, Visa and Master card are widely accepted.
1 USD = 8,028 LAK |
(approximately) |
1 EUR = 11,090 LAK |
VISA/PASSPORT
Lao immigration department only accepts visa on arrival of specific nationalities, please see the website of Laos Embassy. The best way to get Laos visa is go to Laos Embassy.
Lao visas are required to be 60 days of validity from the date of issue. You need 2 passport size photos, valid passport (at least 6 months beyond the length of stay) and USD 45 fee paid at border check points in 4 international airports.
CUSTOMS
When reaching the custom counters, you will have to complete the custom declaration. You are allowed to bring foreign currencies, jewels…You have to fill in a form if you bring over US $2000 or its equivalent in any other foreign currencies.
OTHERS
Sim cards and Internet
Laos Telecom, ETL and Unitel are the biggest operators and provide great coverage predominantly in Vientiane. Any one can buy sim cards but have to register with their passports.
Wifi is available at most hotels exception to hotels in the less touristy towns. The best way to surf internet in these towns is to buy 3G sim card.
Water:
The tap water is not disinfected then you are advised to drink bottles water and mineral water which can be found at many shops outside hotels or restaurants. Also, there are many places provide water refill service which is cheaper than buying new ones.
Electricity:
The standard households (hotels) electrical supply in Laos is 230 volts, 50 Hertz. The standard socket accepts two round pins and flat blade plug.
If your electric devices do not accept 230 volts and 50 Hertz, you can bring voltage converter or buy one in Laos.
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