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Bookmark & shareSnaking rivers, lush jungle, hectic markets and the Unesco-listed Plain of Jars.
Laos' isolation from foreign influence offers travellers an unparalleled glimpse of traditional Southeast Asian life. From the fertile lowlands of the Mekong River valley to the rugged Annamite highlands, Laos is the highlight of Southeast Asia.
Enigmatic and relatively undeveloped, Laos bears the dubious distinction of being the most bombed country in history. However, it is gradually emerging from its tumultuous recent history thanks to a combination of foreign aid, a growing ecotourism industry, and its charming, philosophical people.
Travel Warning: Security Issues
Unexploded ordnance (UXO) and incidents of banditry in rural areas are issues travellers should be aware of in Laos.
For more information go to Safe Travel or check out the Thorn Tree travel forum for some good advice from travellers.
Check local information regarding the security of travel through the western portion of Rte 7 in Xieng Khuang Province between Muang Phu Khun and Phonsavan, and Rte 13 between Vang Vieng north to Muang Phu Khun through to south of Luang Prabang.
Though the Saisom Special Zone is slowly opening up, the 'secret city' of Long Cheng remains off limits.
severity: Mid-level alert
Fast Facts
Country Full Name
Lao People's Democratic Republic
Population
6,520,000
Currency
Name: Kip
Code: LAK
Symbol: KN
Electrical Plugs
230V 50Hz
Languages Spoken
Official: Lao
Time Zones
GMT/UTC +7
Country Dialing Code
+856
Weights & Measures
Metric
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The Road to Long Cheng
article by Andrew Burke, April 2007
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Disclaimer: We've tried to make the information on this web site as accurate as possible, but it is provided 'as is' and we accept no responsibility for any loss, injury or inconvenience sustained by anyone resulting from this information. You should verify critical information (like visas, health and safety, customs and transportation) with the relevant authorities before you travel.
