Asia
Laos
Laos is one of Southeast Asia's most serene and unspoiled destinations, offering ancient temples, the UNESCO listed town of Luang Prabang, Mekong River journeys and a pace of life that provides genuine respite from more visited neighbours. Small in scale but rich in culture and natural beauty, Laos rewards slow travel.
Elect's take
"Laos moves at a different pace to the rest of Southeast Asia and that is precisely its greatest appeal. Luang Prabang is one of the most genuinely beautiful and atmospheric small cities I have visited anywhere."
Luang Prabang is the jewel of Laos. The combination of gilded temples, French colonial architecture, the morning alms giving ceremony and the surrounding river scenery creates an atmosphere of remarkable calm. The town sits at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers and both provide beautiful settings for exploration by boat or bicycle. Vientiane is a surprisingly relaxed capital with excellent French influenced cafés. Laos is best appreciated slowly and rewards travellers who resist the urge to rush.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Wat Xieng Thong
Luang Prabang's most beautiful and significant Buddhist temple.
Alms Giving Ceremony
A daily dawn ritual where monks collect offerings from local residents.
Mekong River
A legendary river journey through beautiful jungle and riverside villages.
Pak Ou Caves
Sacred river caves containing thousands of Buddha images.
Vang Vieng
Dramatic karst limestone scenery surrounding a relaxed riverside town.
Lao Cuisine
A distinctive culinary tradition of sticky rice, fresh herbs and Mekong river fish.
