Laos travel guides
Laos’ UNESCO-listed jewel, Luang Prabang, stretches in quiet beauty against the banks of the Mekong. Further south, its ‘little sister’ capital city, Vientiane, casts a golden silhouette over those same mighty waters as they wind onwards. Travelling through the country that created these two contrasting cities shows you the breadth of Laos’ diverse history, from elaborate temples to lingering war ordnance, which still impacts upon the daily lives of its citizens. Walk among the ancient Plain of Jars, discover adventure in Vang Vieng, and experience landlocked beach life amid the 4,000 Islands.
Our big three in Laos
Obviously there's a lot more, this is just to get you started...
Shining like the sun
The golden spire of Pha That Luang stands in the centre of Vientiane as a beacon to Buddhism; a gleaming oasis of calm. The surrounding gardens provide a peaceful place to sit and admire the highly decorative designs that surround this extraordinary building, or to simply press pause and watch the world go by. A short stroll from Pha That Luang brings you to another of Vientiane's magical monuments: the Patuxai. This Arch de Triomphe-style structure stands proudly at the centre of Patuxai Park, where illuminated musical fountains and the setting sun provide a peaceful prelude to the nearby riverside night market.
Early-morning Luang Prabang
Mornings in Laos’ most famous city begin softly, as sunlight illuminates the rooftops and the dawn chorus signals the start of the day. People pass by your balcony on bikes, or pulling carts overhanging with fresh vegetables. The waft of incense drifts skywards and somebody somewhere is grinding fresh coffee. Your senses are heightened still further as you make your way to the market on Long Street. Thoughts of freshly baked baguettes, deep fried doughnuts and khao jee (sticky rice and egg) - your new favourite street foods - make your stomach rumble. Wander between the stalls relishing the friendly faces, the sweet and sour aromas, and the thrill of the unknown, before deciding which delectable dish to try first.
