Laos Vacations

At some points of entry to Laos, you can receive a visitors’ visa. This is usually valid for 30 days. Although you don’t need a visa beforehand, you do need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining and two blank pages.

Although vaccinations are not required to enter Laos, several are highly recommended. You should begin taking malaria tablets before leaving your home country and be recently vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis A. Depending on your travel plans, your doctor may recommend vaccinating for hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, yellow fever, or rabies.

Laos is full of breathtaking natural sites, including caves, rivers, waterfalls, and rapids. One of the most popular places is Luang Prabang, with its UNESCO listed Old Town and proximity to nature escapes and elephant sanctuaries. You can fly to Luang Prabang or reach it by a Mekong river cruise.

Laotian cuisine is delicious and unique. You can find some of the cheapest and most delicious food at city night markets. One of the most famous cultural dishes is laap, a meat or fish salad. Try it raw if you’re feeling brave enough.

Laos is, in general, a very safe destination for travelers. You may want to avoid certain parts of the country that are still prone to civil unrest. As always, practice prudent safety measures and common sense, especially in crowded urban areas.

The best time of year to go to Laos is during the dry season between October and April. During this time, the weather will be warm and pleasant. If you are planning to travel by river, shoot for a visit between November and January, when the waters are higher.

Laos can be a great destination for a family vacation, especially if your kids love adventure. There aren’t a huge number of modern or high-tech conveniences in the country, but kids who are curious and adventurous will have a great time there.

Laos can be a lovely place for your honeymoon if you are looking for a place that is serene, quiet, and remote. There are many honeymoon resorts in the country, but more than anything, there are many beautiful, out-of-the-way vistas that make this country perfect for honeymooners who want to escape.