Laos Travel FAQ
Please see our FAQ list below to assist you in planning the best trip to Laos
Where should I book my return flight from Laos?
You can book directly from your country yourself or through a local travel agent. Always double-check the allowable luggage weight with your airline because being overweight at the airport usually comes at a high cost.
The main two international airports where Laos’ majority of international flights land and depart are Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) in Luang Prabang and Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane, Laos’ capital.
What type of lodging should I book and stay in Laos?
With average temperatures in Laos’s major regions ranging from 15-30 degrees C, you might want a hotel with a pool. If you book your room in advance online or with a travel agent, double-check everything that’s included in your room rates, such as breakfast, a daily service charge, and tax.
Also, location is important, staying in a hotel in the heart of tourist areas will allow you to explore the area’s highlights more easily and not pay as much for transportation such as taxis, buses, and subways.
What are some Laos foods to try?
Laos’ cuisine is still widely known, not only in the central streets of Luang Prabang and Vientiane but also in rural Laos, and if you visit Laos, you should not miss trying two distinct local foods Sticky Rice and Larb, both of which are very reasonable and available throughout the country.
Sticky Rice
Sticky rice is a popular dish in Laos, and it can be found at almost any gathering, from family reunions to death anniversaries and festivals. This simple dish is made with sticky rice grown in the mountains.
Sticky rice is commonly served in Laos with grilled chicken and a sauce. Although many families now eat rice, Laos sticky rice remains a mainstay for all Laotians. If you visit Laos, you can try this dish at stalls or restaurants for about 15,000 Kips per basket.
Larb
Larb is a popular dish in all regions of Laos and is served to guests as good luck wishes from the owner. Laotians cook Larb with simple ingredients such as cooked beef, pork, and chicken… mixed with chopped liver and spices such as lemon juice, chili, galangal, and powdered grilled sticky rice, Larb is served with lettuce and string beans to enhance the flavor. Larb is sold in both small and large restaurants in Laos for around 30,000 Kips per disk.
What are the best tips when traveling with children in Laos?
1. Take an umbrella & suitable clothes with you
Laos has two seasons: dry, and rainy (wet) season, with the temperature ranging from 15 to 30°C. Since temperatures can vary from very hot to a sudden rainstorm, bring an umbrella and layer your clothing, ready for any weather changes.
2. Keep water handy
Laos’s wet season ranges from May to August, with the temperature ranging from 25 to 36°C. your car should have air conditioning. Bottled water is also useful to have on excursions because you will be walking a lot and there aren’t many places to buy water near the sites, temples, and pagodas.
3. A stroller and some familiar items are helpful for travel with children
Bring their favorite snacks and toys. Also, remember to pack some medical supplies like medicine and bandages. A stroller is highly useful for transporting children and other items, like drinks or packages.
4. Limit transfers as much as possible
If you’re traveling with children, try not to do too much in one day.
5. Combine entertainment complexes into your itinerary
At entertainment venues such as parks, zoos, and game complexes, children can play on their own … Plan to take your children to these incredible locations so they can share these memorable adventures with you.
Are there any suggestions for Laos souvenirs?
Laos is still famous for its traditional brocade handicrafts such as towels, bags, wallets, and embroidery pictures. Aside from that, don’t forget to purchase some copper or silver jewelry in the tourist cities of Laos.
Carol Cassidy and Houey Hong are two famous places to buy the most beautiful brocade items in Vientiane, Laos’ capital. Or Ok Pop Tok, a famous textile village in Luang Prabang where textiles create a variety of beautiful items.
What are the standard tips for a tour guide and driver in Laos?
Regardless of the tip, a tour guide generally gives it his or her all. Because almost all tour guides are sensitive to the subject, tipping is rarely suggested and not required, but very much appreciated for doing a good job.
As a result, visitors should consider tipping each of their tour guides and drivers $5 to $20 or more per person each day.
Are laundry services available in hotels or in the town?
It is becoming more common for hotels to offer laundry service because more tourists are learning to pack light, but if they don’t, they can usually direct you to a reasonably-priced laundry service nearby.
What are the physical demands of the tour?
Regardless of your age, our tours are moderately active. Always wear comfortable walking shoes.
What should I pack for my trip?
1. Personal items
Laos is not cold even in the dry season, as temperatures range from 27 to 36 degrees Celsius. Bring lightweight clothing as well as shirts with sleeves, a lightweight sweater or jacket, and long pants or skirts, to be able to enter Laos temples or pagodas, per their restrictions at historical landmarks.
2. Update the current state of politics & security
To avoid unexpected complications upon arrival and throughout your stay, check the latest Visa information, mosquito vaccine, and so on.
3. Learn some basic daily habits & local customs before you arrive
To ensure that you adhere to the customs of the country you are visiting, your tour guide will review some basic daily habits and local customs. Simple greetings of hello are welcomed, as well as a thank you or goodbye. When you speak with the locals directly, they will appreciate it.
4. Bring any necessary medicine
Bring your prescriptions in their regular containers, as well as sunscreen or insect repellent, depending on your location. Medicine is available in Laos but it’s convenient if you come prepared.
(Always remember to pack LIGHT – one carry-on and one purse/backpack only, whether it is a 1-week or 4-week trip.)
How long must my passport be valid for international travel?
A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the end of a journey in most countries. If your passport expires sooner, you will need to apply for a renewal before you leave. Laos Travel FAQ Laos Travel FAQ Laos Travel FAQ
What should I wear to Buddhist temples and pagodas in Laos?
Laos is a Buddhist country, so avoid wearing short skirts and pants when visiting temples and pagodas. Otherwise, you can be denied entry.
What are Laos’s major international airports?
Laos’s two busiest international airports: • Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) in Luang Prabang
• Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane
These flights times are to/from Luang Prabang: 1hr flight to Vientiane, Laos (domestic flight)
1hr 05min flight to Hanoi, Vietnam
1h45min flight to Bangkok, Thailand
2hrs 15min flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia
What are the best months to visit Laos?
Laos has 2 seasons: The dry and wet (rainy) seasons
The best time to visit Laos is in the dry season from October to late February when the weather is warm and dry throughout the country, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30°C.
River travel is best between November & January when the Mekong River has high enough water levels for easy passage along the waterway
The wet/ rainy season lasts from May to late August, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 36°C.
Laos weather
What are the current Covid-19 and Visa policies in Laos?
The current COVID-19 updates in Laos
• As of 9 May, Laos is officially fully open to international travelers
• A Lao Green Pass, COVID insurance, and the on-arrival test are no longer required
Visa policy in Laos
To begin, a passport valid for at least 6 months is required and you should have at least one blank visa page.
Laos Visa Exemption
• With an ordinary passport from the below countries, you can travel to Cambodia without a visa up to
30 Days for Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore
14 Days for Brunei and Myanmar
15 Days for Japan, South Korea, Russia, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland)
Laos Visa On Arrival
• Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival in Laos or E-Visa before arrival to Laos, valid for 30 days, including:
EU citizens
Australians
North Americans
• Visa on arrival in Laos is available at all ports of entry in this country, including international airports and major cities.
• Visa on arrival is also available at all border checkpoints in Laos: Thailand – Laos
Cambodia – Laos
Vietnam – Laos
China – Laos border
Fee for Laos Visa on arrival: China: US $20
Australia and other countries: US $30
USA and UK: US $35
Canada: US $42
India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka: US $40
• You should bring two passport-size photos with you if you want to apply for a visa on arrival.
• Travelers from Africa and the Middle East must apply for Visas in advance.
Laos Visa Extension
• Travelers can extend their visa up to an additional 60 days for about $1 for each day through the Immigration Department in Vientiane
• However, if you extend after the visa expiry date, you will be fined $10 for the days you overstayed
Note: an additional $1 is charged from the overtime fee on weekends, Laos public holidays, and before 8 am and after 4 pm on weekdays.
Click to apply online for your tourist E-visa to Laos, valid for a maximum of 60 days after receiving the Approval Letter
What are the best things to do in Laos?
1. Do not miss to experience and talk with the children in the Tribal villages
Children in Laos’ Tribal Villages
2. Must explore the Mekong Smile boat – very relaxing and amazing
Amazing cruise routes along the Mekong River
3. The best lodging is Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge resort
Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge Resort in Laos
4. Enjoying the textiles in Laos – Pakbeng market
The Textiles in Laos – Pakbeng Market travel faq
5. Pak Ou Caves is a treat, home to 4000 Buddhas in a cave!
Pak Ou Caves in Laos
6. Best adventure: The elephant village camp in Luang Prabang, feeding and footing on elephants in the Mekong!
The Elephant Village Camp in Luang Prabang, Laos
7. Walking through the Luang Prabang Street market starting right after the morning ALMS ceremony!
The Morning ALMS Ceremony in Laos
8. Visiting a shop where a master weaver creates the most unique and beautiful products
A Master Weaver is creating the Most Unique and Beautiful Products in Laos
9. Enjoying the Ban Chan pottery village & Khmu Village
The Ban Chan Pottery Village in Luang Prabang, Laos
10. Staying at a hotel in Luang Prabang, enjoying cuisine along the river across the street
One of the beautiful hotels in Luang Prabang
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Also:
Please see our FAQ list below to assist you in planning the best trip to Laos |
Where should I book my return flight from Laos?
You can book directly from your country yourself or through a local travel agent. Always double-check the allowable luggage weight with your airline because being overweight at the airport usually comes at a high cost.
The main two international airports where Laos’ majority of international flights land and depart are Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) in Luang Prabang and Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane, Laos’ capital.
What type of lodging should I book and stay in Laos?
With average temperatures in Laos’s major regions ranging from 15-30 degrees C, you might want a hotel with a pool. If you book your room in advance online or with a travel agent, double-check everything that’s included in your room rates, such as breakfast, a daily service charge, and tax.
Also, location is important, staying in a hotel in the heart of tourist areas will allow you to explore the area’s highlights more easily and not pay as much for transportation such as taxis, buses, and subways.
What are some Laos foods to try?
Laos’ cuisine is still widely known, not only in the central streets of Luang Prabang and Vientiane but also in rural Laos, and if you visit Laos, you should not miss trying two distinct local foods Sticky Rice and Larb, both of which are very reasonable and available throughout the country.
Sticky Rice
Sticky rice is a popular dish in Laos, and it can be found at almost any gathering, from family reunions to death anniversaries and festivals. This simple dish is made with sticky rice grown in the mountains.
Sticky rice is commonly served in Laos with grilled chicken and a sauce. Although many families now eat rice, Laos sticky rice remains a mainstay for all Laotians. If you visit Laos, you can try this dish at stalls or restaurants for about 15,000 Kips per basket.
Larb
Larb is a popular dish in all regions of Laos and is served to guests as good luck wishes from the owner. Laotians cook Larb with simple ingredients such as cooked beef, pork, and chicken… mixed with chopped liver and spices such as lemon juice, chili, galangal, and powdered grilled sticky rice, Larb is served with lettuce and string beans to enhance the flavor. Larb is sold in both small and large restaurants in Laos for around 30,000 Kips per disk.
What are the best tips when traveling with children in Laos?
1. Take an umbrella & suitable clothes with you
Laos has two seasons: dry, and rainy (wet) season, with the temperature ranging from 15 to 30°C. Since temperatures can vary from very hot to a sudden rainstorm, bring an umbrella and layer your clothing, ready for any weather changes.
2. Keep water handy
Laos’s wet season ranges from May to August, with the temperature ranging from 25 to 36°C. your car should have air conditioning. Bottled water is also useful to have on excursions because you will be walking a lot and there aren’t many places to buy water near the sites, temples, and pagodas.
3. A stroller and some familiar items are helpful for travel with children
Bring their favorite snacks and toys. Also, remember to pack some medical supplies like medicine and bandages. A stroller is highly useful for transporting children and other items, like drinks or packages.
4. Limit transfers as much as possible
If you’re traveling with children, try not to do too much in one day.
5. Combine entertainment complexes into your itinerary
At entertainment venues such as parks, zoos, and game complexes, children can play on their own … Plan to take your children to these incredible locations so they can share these memorable adventures with you.
Are there any suggestions for Laos souvenirs?
Laos is still famous for its traditional brocade handicrafts such as towels, bags, wallets, and embroidery pictures. Aside from that, don’t forget to purchase some copper or silver jewelry in the tourist cities of Laos.
Carol Cassidy and Houey Hong are two famous places to buy the most beautiful brocade items in Vientiane, Laos’ capital. Or Ok Pop Tok, a famous textile village in Luang Prabang where textiles create a variety of beautiful items.
What are the standard tips for a tour guide and driver in Laos?
Regardless of the tip, a tour guide generally gives it his or her all. Because almost all tour guides are sensitive to the subject, tipping is rarely suggested and not required, but very much appreciated for doing a good job.
As a result, visitors should consider tipping each of their tour guides and drivers $5 to $20 or more per person each day.
Are laundry services available in hotels or in the town?
It is becoming more common for hotels to offer laundry service because more tourists are learning to pack light, but if they don’t, they can usually direct you to a reasonably-priced laundry service nearby.
What are the physical demands of the tour?
Regardless of your age, our tours are moderately active. Always wear comfortable walking shoes.
What should I pack for my trip?
1. Personal items
Laos is not cold even in the dry season, as temperatures range from 27 to 36 degrees Celsius. Bring lightweight clothing as well as shirts with sleeves, a lightweight sweater or jacket, and long pants or skirts, to be able to enter Laos temples or pagodas, per their restrictions at historical landmarks.
2. Update the current state of politics & security
To avoid unexpected complications upon arrival and throughout your stay, check the latest Visa information, mosquito vaccine, and so on.
3. Learn some basic daily habits & local customs before you arrive
To ensure that you adhere to the customs of the country you are visiting, your tour guide will review some basic daily habits and local customs. Simple greetings of hello are welcomed, as well as a thank you or goodbye. When you speak with the locals directly, they will appreciate it.
4. Bring any necessary medicine
Bring your prescriptions in their regular containers, as well as sunscreen or insect repellent, depending on your location. Medicine is available in Laos but it’s convenient if you come prepared.
(Always remember to pack LIGHT – one carry-on and one purse/backpack only, whether it is a 1-week or 4-week trip.)
How long must my passport be valid for international travel?
A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the end of a journey in most countries. If your passport expires sooner, you will need to apply for a renewal before you leave. Laos Travel FAQ Laos Travel FAQ Laos Travel FAQ
What should I wear to Buddhist temples and pagodas in Laos?
Laos is a Buddhist country, so avoid wearing short skirts and pants when visiting temples and pagodas. Otherwise, you can be denied entry.
What are Laos’s major international airports?
Laos’s two busiest international airports: • Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ) in Luang Prabang
• Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane
These flights times are to/from Luang Prabang: 1hr flight to Vientiane, Laos (domestic flight)
1hr 05min flight to Hanoi, Vietnam
1h45min flight to Bangkok, Thailand
2hrs 15min flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia
What are the best months to visit Laos?
Laos has 2 seasons: The dry and wet (rainy) seasons
The best time to visit Laos is in the dry season from October to late February when the weather is warm and dry throughout the country, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 30°C.
River travel is best between November & January when the Mekong River has high enough water levels for easy passage along the waterway
The wet/ rainy season lasts from May to late August, with temperatures ranging from 27 to 36°C.
Laos weather
What are the current Covid-19 and Visa policies in Laos?
The current COVID-19 updates in Laos
• As of 9 May, Laos is officially fully open to international travelers
• A Lao Green Pass, COVID insurance, and the on-arrival test are no longer required
Visa policy in Laos
To begin, a passport valid for at least 6 months is required and you should have at least one blank visa page.
Laos Visa Exemption
• With an ordinary passport from the below countries, you can travel to Cambodia without a visa up to
30 Days for Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore
14 Days for Brunei and Myanmar
15 Days for Japan, South Korea, Russia, Switzerland, Luxembourg, and Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and Finland)
Laos Visa On Arrival
• Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival in Laos or E-Visa before arrival to Laos, valid for 30 days, including:
EU citizens
Australians
North Americans
• Visa on arrival in Laos is available at all ports of entry in this country, including international airports and major cities.
• Visa on arrival is also available at all border checkpoints in Laos: Thailand – Laos
Cambodia – Laos
Vietnam – Laos
China – Laos border
Fee for Laos Visa on arrival: China: US $20
Australia and other countries: US $30
USA and UK: US $35
Canada: US $42
India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka: US $40
• You should bring two passport-size photos with you if you want to apply for a visa on arrival.
• Travelers from Africa and the Middle East must apply for Visas in advance.
Laos Visa Extension
• Travelers can extend their visa up to an additional 60 days for about $1 for each day through the Immigration Department in Vientiane
• However, if you extend after the visa expiry date, you will be fined $10 for the days you overstayed
Note: an additional $1 is charged from the overtime fee on weekends, Laos public holidays, and before 8 am and after 4 pm on weekdays.
Click to apply online for your tourist E-visa to Laos, valid for a maximum of 60 days after receiving the Approval Letter
What are the best things to do in Laos?
1. Do not miss to experience and talk with the children in the Tribal villages
Children in Laos’ Tribal Villages
2. Must explore the Mekong Smile boat – very relaxing and amazing
Amazing cruise routes along the Mekong River
3. The best lodging is Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge resort
Sanctuary Pakbeng Lodge Resort in Laos
4. Enjoying the textiles in Laos – Pakbeng market
The Textiles in Laos – Pakbeng Market travel faq
5. Pak Ou Caves is a treat, home to 4000 Buddhas in a cave!
Pak Ou Caves in Laos
6. Best adventure: The elephant village camp in Luang Prabang, feeding and footing on elephants in the Mekong!
The Elephant Village Camp in Luang Prabang, Laos
7. Walking through the Luang Prabang Street market starting right after the morning ALMS ceremony!
The Morning ALMS Ceremony in Laos
8. Visiting a shop where a master weaver creates the most unique and beautiful products
A Master Weaver is creating the Most Unique and Beautiful Products in Laos
9. Enjoying the Ban Chan pottery village & Khmu Village
The Ban Chan Pottery Village in Luang Prabang, Laos
10. Staying at a hotel in Luang Prabang, enjoying cuisine along the river across the street
One of the beautiful hotels in Luang Prabang
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