Laos

A land of beguiling landscapes, impressive nature, vivid culture and a spiritual past, discover Southeast Asia’s best kept secret.

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Laos is a leafy paradise that’s known for its gilded temples, outstanding scenery, some of Asia’s most magnificent waterfalls, remarkable paddy fields and so much more. Life here moves more mindfully and it cherishes many ancient traditions that have either disappeared or carried on through generations. It’s one of the most ethnically diverse countries in Southeast Asia and has over 40 different ethnic groups; from Lao Loum (meaning lowland Lao) that mostly live along the Mekong river plains, to Lao Sung who are primarily Hmong and Mien tribes living higher up in the mountains.

Explore Laos’ capital and largest city, Vientiane, and discover some of its most monumental landmarks and temples such as the Patuxai Victory Monument, That Luang, Wat Ho Phra Keo and Wat Si Muang. Fancy a dip? Embrace the turquoise waters of the Kuang Si Waterfall whilst you take a dip and watch a swarm of butterflies surround you, making this place even more magical. Wander through the cobbled streets of Luang Prabang, which offers stunning views of the Mekong River, and rise at dawn to watch tak bat, where Buddhist monks walk the streets for the morning alms giving. Retreat to Vang Vieng, perfectly hidden among the jungle, and embark on unforgettable kayaking, zip lining, white water rafting and cave exploring experience.

Laos is a place where adventure seekers can lose themselves in a plethora of activities, nature enthusiasts can take a walk on the wild side with elephants, culture lovers can indulge in the true meaning of Lao spiritual life whilst exploring the countries most ancient temples, foodies can be taken on a tantalising culinary journey through spices and cooking classes, and yogis can truly regenerate their minds, bodies and souls.

Sensorial Experience

Sights
Sounds
Smells
Tastes
Feels
Sights

The landscapes in Laos are unlike any others in the world. From its fairytale-like waterfalls and magical caves, to its glowing emerald rice fields and outstanding mountains, this hidden pearl is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a plethora of vivid wildlife. Laos also has hundreds of magnificent temples to explore, paying homage to Buddha and home to monks and nuns. The sights here are nothing short of extraordinary.

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Sounds

Influenced by ancient Khmer traditions and mountainous ethnic groups, traditional Laotian music has many similarities with Thailand and Cambodia. You can discover live performances during Buddhist holidays around the temples, where traditional instruments such as the Khaen (a bamboo and reed mouth organ), various hand drums, and other instruments are accompanied by a group of Lao singers in colourful troupes. From the popular ‘folk-like’ music, Mor Lam, to Thai country music, Luk Thung, there are so many local varieties that you will most certainly enjoy.

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Smells

Whilst the landscapes here are out-of-this-world, you’ll be sure to encounter their national flower, Dok Champa, which are seen almost everywhere. Releasing a deliciously sweet scent when blooming, the Dok Champa flower can range anything from its typical white and yellow colouring to vibrant hues of red and pink. This flower in Laos represents sincerity and joy in life, hence why it has become very popular in religious ceremonies and daily ritual practices. Not to mention it’s also the symbol of luck!

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Tastes

Whilst there are a variety of traditional dishes in the Lao cuisine, most of the Lao diet is based on rice and accompanied by a selection of dips, vegetables, curried meat and fish dishes, salads and soups. Commonly served in a woven bamboo container (the Tip Khao), it’s considered bad luck not to replace the lid on top of the container at the end of a meal! With popular dishes varying from spicy salads (Tam Som) made with green papaya, ground peanuts, crab and chilli peppers, to a chicken soup (Tom Khaa Kai) with coconut milk and galangal, Laos also has many Italian and French delicacies available due to its French colonial legacy.

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Feels

Travellers here will most definitely endure a more meditative experience when exploring this hidden pearl. Everything you’ll encounter here is definitely taken to a whole new level in Laos. Discover pure bliss at the natural beauty of Mother Nature, be amazed by its plethora of magical temples, indulge in its kaleidoscope of people and marvel at its wonderful wildlife. Whilst travelling to Laos can be truly thrilling, you will also encounter a cocktail of emotions due to the less fortunate living conditions.

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