"Tread Softly: Laos" Top 5 Page for this destination Laos by richiecdisc

Laos Travel Guide: 4,110 reviews and 8,536 photos

Laos does not grab a lion’s share of travelers that pass through Southeast Asia. Lacking the easy access of Thailand, spectacular sights like Angkor Wat in Cambodia, and more publicized outcries of war ravages of Vietnam, the land-locked little country has to rely on its unspoiled, friendly people as its main draw. Though devoid of beaches, it is full of scenic rivers and enticing mountain scenery much like neighboring tourist-flooded countries, but what separates little Laos from its competitors is a native population that has yet to learn that tourists translate into dollars. It is this simple fact that makes the country such a joy to travel around. It will undoubtedly not last forever so by all means, visit Laos before the friendly smiles of Laos are no longer free.

Last visit to Laos: Jan 2004
Intro Updated Nov 26, 2004
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Reviews (30)

The local plonk Local Customs (3)

I must have been away too long. Luckily Jen (Craic) reminded me of my original claim to fame on VT, beer. Well, despite... more travel advice

hiking opportunities in Vang Vieng - Laos

hiking in Vang Vieng Sports & Outdoors (1)

Vang Vieng offers lots of great hiking opportunites. You can do some guides walks in caves, wander the countryside or... more travel advice

Vang Vieng has more local color than you... Shopping (1)

This is a very local and authentic market and shows that even though the village is trying to become a backpacker mecca,... more travel advice

wish we could have brought him home What to Pack (1)

Backpack is the way to go here as in many places you will not have the option of a taxi to your squeaky clean... more travel advice

Things to Do (5)
See All a feast of temples awaits you in Laos
Restaurants (3)
See All sometimes you want something not so...
Hotels (2)
See All say hello to our little friend
Favorites (8)
See All that one is supposed to be a real...
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Comments (40)

AngieGo Nov 6, 2009 at 11:14 AM Report Abuse

That's endearing. :)
kbounmisavang Feb 7, 2009 at 11:07 AM Report Abuse

it is great photo..:) I am Lao guy and happy to see that you love My country ...Yeah!! LAOS
nora_south_africa Jun 28, 2008 at 2:55 AM Report Abuse

great tips
magor65 Dec 26, 2007 at 11:15 AM Report Abuse

It's just another six weeks to my Laos/Vietnam adventure. We're going to take a slow boat to Luang Prabang, but your report on the night spent with rats does put me off. Bth, great, helpful, practical tips.
Trekki Jan 27, 2007 at 12:55 AM Report Abuse

Fascinating to read about your adventures, oh my god, border crossing seems to be quite a job... The food looks so delicious, I get hungry now and can't get something like that here. Marvellous landscapes !
matcrazy1 Sep 16, 2006 at 10:02 AM Report Abuse

Great page and pictures - outstanding sceneries, mountains, rivers, architecture. Great destination before Laos becomes more touristy, I guess.
thedouglas Feb 18, 2006 at 3:27 PM Report Abuse

Great tips as usual Richie - all very useful for our upcoming trip to Laos! Thanks for sharing.
iandsmith Jan 4, 2006 at 7:47 AM Report Abuse

I knew there were several reasons not to go! (great read though)
stedeb Sep 10, 2005 at 6:12 PM Report Abuse

Richie love the pics we arre planning a trip in 06 and your pages have given us loads of tips. Great pages.
mad4travel Aug 10, 2005 at 2:07 PM Report Abuse

Laos looks soo nice. I'm off there in December-can't wait!