Nong Khiaw Laos

The Growing Country Of Lao People's Democratic Republic

By Rhadem Morados

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="172" caption="Lao Scarf III (Photo credit: Pleroma)"][/caption]

Sabai dee khrup!

I love to travel to places which hasn't been included yet by many tourists in their lists of must-see, must-go destinations. Every time I travel, I make sure that I get to satisfy the cravings of my taste buds for a country's national or provincial cuisine, to experience the grandeur of its atmosphere and to take advantage of its picturesque surroundings for souvenir photos. Year 2008, My sister and I went to Laos People's Democratic Republic. Its a place of great people, rich culture and well preserved historical heritage. As you read along, I will take you to an informative journey to a place I called haven.

Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a communist single-party socialist republic. A small land lock in the Southeast Asia, the country is bordered by Burma and the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south and Thailand to the west. Laos is divided into 18 provinces and the Capital is the City of Vientiane.

The official language is Lao which is similar to Thai. Majority of the people are Buddhist with a significant proportion of indigenous religion. The county is a member of international organizations such as the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), East Asia Summit and La Francophonie - an international organization of governments with French as the mother or customary language, that makes some proportion of the people are Francophones (French speakers) or where there is a notable affiliation with the French language or culture. Laos' first, French-written and monarchical constitution was promulgated on May 11, 1947 that declared the place to be an independent state within the French Union.

The Lao economy is heavily dependent on investment and trade with its neighbors, Thailand, Vietnam, and, especially in the north, China. It has also experienced growth based on cross-border trade with Thailand and Vietnam, and the tourism sector has grown rapidly from 14,400 tourists visiting Laos in 1990, to 1.1 million in 2005. Annual tourism sector revenues are expected to grow from $250 to $300 million by 2020.

Swiss, Japanese and Russian nationals are free to enter Laos at anytime, while all other tourists need a visa (for one or possibly two months) issued by the Lao embassy or consulate. A visa on arrival is also available to most people entering at the airports in Vientiane and Luang Prabang, as well as in the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge between Nong Khai in Thailand and Vientiane.

Laos offers no fancy bars or nightlife venues and other luxurious amenities. However, the country boasts the friendliness of its people and warm hospitality, the distinctive warmth of their countryside, breathtaking nature destinations, deliciously superb variety of cuisines and a unique culture that has been enriched by its history and the modern contemporary time.

There's a wide array of choices to eat in the place, though I don't remember now what the names of those foods we ate there, but I tell you, you would surely forget your name for a while once you tasted any of those.

When in Laos, its a "must" (and I really mean that the trip would never be complete if not experienced), to take the 2-day Eco-tourism trekking on Ban Nalan Trail in the north of Laos, Angkor style Khmers Temples which is considered as World Heritage site. Nong Khiaw offers slow boat ride between beautiful Karst cliffs where you can discover amazing natures structures and hill tribes. The other part of Laos has this Iron Age cemetery, limestone caves and tubing on the Nam Song river and a cave with 200 Buddha statues of all sizes that are also meant to be unmissed.

Laos has no railways, except a short link that connect Vientiane with Thailand over the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge and Vietnam Airport. To be able to Enter the Country of Laos, you need to be from Vietnam or Thailand.

Travelling to Laos gives the best value for you money. For 2 days we spent over 10,000 Thai baht, if you convert it to Kip, its around almost 1 million Kip for the hotel accommodation, food, the adventures, and fares from Thailand and back.

My sister and I left the small but beautiful country of Laos with a heart filled with joy and satisfaction.

Rhadem

[http://mypieceofplot.blogspot.com/2010/11/lao-peoples-democratic-republic-growing.html]

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rhadem_Morados

"Nong Khiaw" Doireann_brian's photos around Nong Khiaw, Lao Peoples Dem Rep


nong khiaw laos

Laos An Untouched Gem

Laos – Untouched Gem And Picturesque Country Of Southeast Asia

 by Mark Lee

 Laos is perfect destinations for travelers who like to go to a place before it has "discovered" by others. Until 1988 it was fully closed but now Laos is slowly and steadily beginning to attain status as an ecotourism destination, with its many rivers that cross the country and its unspoiled national parks. It offers a exclusive prospect for hiking and canoeing, one with nature. The landscape is profoundly wooded with jagged mountains and waterfalls. It has a tropical monsoon climate the visit time to is from December to April.

Laos south-east Asian country is bordered in the north by Burma and China, East by Vietnam, South by Cambodia and the West by Thailand. This neighboring countries c culture reflection can be seen a lot in Laos. The country was known as the kingdom of Lan Xang, which means "Land of a Million Elephants", which portrays exactly their individuality removed, natural from 14 to 18 centuries.

Infrastructure in Laos is old, there is no train, and most of the villages are linked by poor roads. Roosters strut, children play and mobile phones have not yet been introduced to the rural of the country, but this is what makes Laos a perfect place to visit and relax. To visit Laos is to step back in time and appreciate life without the stress of the 21st century. While the capital, Vientiane, is more developed when compare to other parts of the country, but the country capital has so far avoided major modern developments and traditional and colonial architecture still prevalent?

Regardless of its previous development, or perhaps for that reason, Laos has two World Heritage Sites: like Wat Phu.Luang Prabang travel in Laos cans an exclusive one, the city is well known for its number of Buddhist temples and monasteries. The Plain of Jars is also worth a visit as it is scenery littered with hundreds of stone jars, some up to 6 tons. It is a place that raises more questions than answers. Those who endeavor further than the main tourist route will find dazzling countryside, friendly people and glimpses of a lifestyle of rural people, which most people can barely remember. The flavor of the ancient imperial court can be experienced in the temple full of Luang Prabang in the northern mountainous area. It was the old royal capital of Laos and the center of Buddhism now over 600 saffron-robed monks live in the magnificent pagodas here thirty. The pièce de résistance is the 16 th century Wat Xieng Thong, the Golden Templet.

That even the mayor of Angkor Wat in Cambodia is the extensive Wat Phu. Built between the ages 6 and 14, some buildings remain intact, but contain some of the best Khmer art in Southeast Asia. Up the steps of the great ninth-century temple dedicated to Hindu god Shiva and see the magnificent scenery below, with regard to Vietnam and Cambodia on a clear day. Below is the mighty Mekong River, one of the wonders of Laos to be explored, perhaps cruise aboard a barge, restored, many visits from the sites most important historical Laos.

Whether you want to join an organized tour with a guide or a set of independent, Laos tours can be memorable for you as the country still a virgin for she is yet to be discovered. It offers some unique experiences - for those brave enough to go out into the unknown.

About the Author

 

The author is the expert writer having vast experience about the travel industry. Currently he is writing on various topics related to travel industry like: xian terracotta warriors, malaysia travel package, safari tours africa,shanghai tourism, southeast asia tours, laos tours etc.

The pool and courtyard at Vansana Vangvieng Hotel


vansana hotel vang vieng
vansana hotel vang vieng

Coffee In Laos

Where on Earth Is Vientiane?

By Cecil Laguardia

 

When I wrote Vientiane as my current address, the bank employee asked, "Is this city in Europe?" Maybe he was thinking of Venice?

I sort of expected the question. I get it all the time. I've been doing a lot of briefing about the place since I came - friends, acquaintances and people I get to sit with in flights. Those blank stares look familiar. Let me do it one more time. Vientiane is the capital city of Lao People's Democratic Republic (PDR), otherwise known as Laos, the (once) Land of a Million Elephants. It's not anywhere near Europe but right here in South East Asia - idly draping the historic Mekong River.

Languid and quiet, Vientiane is an icon of friendliness and warmth. All you need to get by is to wear a nice smile and say "sabaidee", a local greeting that covers almost everything from welcome to good morning, evening and night. The Laos would return that in a jiffy. A kind of warmth that does not come easy in many places nowadays. Only in Vientiane. Only in Laos.

When I boarded my flight for my first trip to Vientiane, I was filled with so many misgivings - and a prick of excitement that one usually gets when visiting a new country. But I didn't anticipate fireworks to go with it (much less a marching band). I've been traveling like crazy around Asia but it took me years to drop by. Ah, I thought it wouldn't work. I cannot stay for six months, much less two years. I am beginning to eat my words as I speak. A joke going around is that the country's national motto is "Please slow down". I haven't thought of the words for a long time. In this age of multi-tasking, who can run and hide from the frenzied world. Nah, it doesn't exist.

It does! I was floored. Surrounded by all the frenzy of growing Asian cities, it has managed to hold on to its own comfortable footing. It's like the rest of the world rushes in full speed - as Vientiane takes a stroll and gets the privilege of enjoying the view. The world is almost on full-stop. Almost. On Sundays, you can walk all you want around the city with very rare annoyances of crowding and speeding cars.

I always smile (that's almost daily) when the ever-patient Lao's bring up the morning "traffic". You can't call that traffic when the car stopped for five minutes, can you? Just watch out for the tuk-tuks, the drivers could drive like crazy. Once when my friendly tuk-tuk driver zoomed in and out of big cars like a jet, I howled in fright - all I got was a baw pen nyang (no problem) with a huge grin. He's right. I survived.

Then, there's Joma. I suggest it be considered part of the city treasure - and I am not talking of Joma in Luang Prabang yet. A favorite hang-out of yuppies and expats and bums (that's my future dream, to become one and afford it), their coffee choices could give Starbucks a run for its money. Not counting their BLT, quiche (spinach for me), taco salad and cookies. Between the two - I'd spend my hard-earned dollar on Joma, anytime. A Laos trip won't be complete if you missed a visit. If you are on a diet, you are in big trouble as soon as you hit the door.

Ah, well, so we end this up momentarily with coffee in our minds. Lao coffee is one the best, and I agree with a government executive's final word. He downs four large cups in a day. Only Lao coffee or nothing. There's more to life than running after deadlines, lugging bags in airports, catching-up with emails and watching your day start and end with tons of reports. Even before I got half-way with my Lao tour-of-duty, I woke up realizing a lot of better things we can do to fill our days - like doing nothing in between napping and reading the books accumulated in airport bookstores unread for months.

Your Lao world does not just turn around Joma, of course. Let's be clear on that. There's khao jji paa-tee, French baguette with Lao fillings that you can buy even at the bus station, the khao niaw (sticky rice) paired of with ping pao (grilled fish) and the absolutely heavenly avocado shake in Sabaidee Cafe.

Other restaurants abound serving international dishes. Swedish Pizza does the best pasta and pizza in town. My mouth waters.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cecil_Laguardia

Café Lao in Luang Prabang


coffee in laos

Tubing Laos

Traveling to Laos in July, people who have been; please answer!?

I'm going to Laos for a week in July and I need some info:
- I want to go tubing so i'm def going to viet vang (spelling?) but where else should I visit?
- Any recomendations on accomodation? Nice youth hostels etc.
- I'm flying out of Hong Kong, a flight with no connections is looking like 1000 USD, which seems a little high, any other suggestions/stop over information?
- Any other info would also be appreciated. Thanks!

You only have a week and that's your first problem sadly, we spent a week alone in Vang Vieng.

tubing i can tell you, depending on the type of person you are is AMAZING a LOT of drinking and if ur into it A LOT of drugs. the experience alone is amazing, its a hub for young people just a buzzing amazing place!!!

but as you want to do other things ill tell, the captial Vientien .... isnt worth a visit, although having said that if you can get tehre u'll be able to pick up a bargain, the markets as usual in asian countries are great, im wearing my $2 Calvin Klien undies and $10 jeans as i speak.

recommendations on accomdation, i dont really reccomment hostels, its cheap enough you can get ur own room for $20 a night EASILY so unless you want to meet people do that. although you can get a room then start a conversation easily at the various restauratns that cater for tourists.

my last bit of advice, get a lonely planet book, you can get these in laos for a lot cheaper (a rip off copy) but yeah.

enjoy.

Laos Tubing - Vang Vieng nam song river Laos Tubing


 

Best Hotel Laos Reviews

Laos Hotels and Holidays

 

 by Darshi Chohan

 You can see ancient Indochina culture and green forests on holidays in Laos. Travellers who are more experienced will enjoy the country's "off the beaten track" character, but there are also Laos luxury hotels for comfort and relaxation.

Properly known as Lao People's Democratic Republic, Laos is a country in South East Asia. Like the neighbouring countries of Vietnam and Cambodia to the south, Laos's architecture reflects the traditional styles of Indochina combined with French colonial influence of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. On Laos holidays you will see buildings and temples with staggered, overlapping roofs like the shell, and golden temples with ornate carvings.

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang, a popular tourist destination and UNESCO World Heritage site, is located in the North of Laos where the Nam Khane River meets the Mekong. Although it is a small town, Luang Prabang was once the capital city of Laos. You will quickly notice the strong influence of Buddhism here, the town being home to eighty monasteries. As well as its many monks, this area was once known as "the kingdom of a million elephants," so you will be able to enjoy an elephant ride on your Laos holidays here.

The 3 Nagas Hotel

One of the most historic of the Laos luxury hotels in this region is the 3 Nagas by Alila. It is a boutique Laos hotel comprised of three buildings that are each more than a hundred years old. One of the buildings was constructed in 1898 for a visit from the Laos Royal Family. Each has been modernised to make this a luxurious and peaceful place to stay, but the restoration has kept this Laos hotel's historical charm intact.

To maintain its intimate feel, the 3 Nagas by Alila has just 17 rooms, individually furnished and decorated, featuring wooden beams and smooth wooden floors. Balconies look out over the lush green garden with its pentagonal pond where you can lie on a lounger and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

La Residence

Another of the Laos luxury hotels in this region is La Residence (Phou Vao), located just ten minutes from Luang Prabang's centre. It is decorated to reflect the country's culture, with an indoor water feature, as well as a lily pond in the garden. But the best feature of La Residence is this Laos hotel's amazing mountain views over the forest.

Places to Visit and Sites to See

Places to visit during your visit to Luang Prabang on your Laos holidays include the Royal Palace, the Kuang Si Falls and the Pak Ou Caves. Since the communist government deposed the royal family in the 1970s, The Royal Palace has been a museum for people on Laos holidays to explore.

The Kuang Si Falls are about 20 miles away from Luang Prabang, where you can see the pools and cascading water, taking in some nature before returning to your Laos hotel. It takes two hours to reach the Caves at Pak Ou by boat, during which time you can take in the atmosphere of the jungle. At the caves, holidaymakers can see hundreds of icons and figurines lining cave walls, another example of Laos's historical ties to the Buddhist tradition.

About the Author

 

Darshi Chohan is a Far East holiday expert for Tropical Locations, a specialist operator offering the best Laos hotelsfor Laos holidays and for other destinations in the Far East, Indian Ocean, Arabia & India. Tropical Locations has a dedicated team of experienced travel consultants ready to share their knowledge and help you to plan and book your ideal holiday.

Cities In Laos

where is the lost city in the far east Cambodia? Laos?

Need to plan my vacation to the right place

There a many lost cities the most famous at all is Angkor is a name conventionally applied to the region of Cambodia serving as the seat of the Khmer empire that flourished from approximately the 9th century to the 15th century A.D. (The word "Angkor" itself is derived from the Sanskrit "nagara," meaning "city."
If you got google earth ,.MapQuest,,Yahoo! Maps,Live Search ,MapsTerraServeror any oher interactive map you can find easy

13° 26′ 0″ N, 103° 50′ 0″ E

Hidden cave cities and river systems - Laos 2007


cities in laos

Best Hotels Deals Laos

Pick the best of Laos short breaks for magnificent holidays   

by Amit

The most emasculating land covered with natural attractions and beauties with strong traditional and spiritual values which are still unfold and glittering the ways of its habitations, Laos is the only place in the entire South East Asia for a splendid vacation for most of the people. Since this place is located at the dense tropical and subtropical forests it provides a great rendezvous with the natural landscape and greeneries to spend outstanding holidays in Laos.

Making a holiday trip is not an easy task especially if you are devoid of ample of time. Visiting the most attractive and pleasing location in a limited time is your priority and keeping it in mind here presents some of the best Laos short breaks for you which can make your Laos tours an unforgettable moment:

Vientiane Stopover

Visit the lovely capital city of Laos, Vietnam which offers every tranquil moment when you plan for the two day visit. Get the glimpse of the leisurely pace of Laotian life and the impressive historic and cultural beauty. With finger licking dinner you can also get a chance to enjoy the traditional music and dance at one of the famous Laos hotels. The very next day you can explore the famous Wat Sisaket where you can find thousands of miniature Buddha statues, the huge golden That Luang monument, and Vientiane's own Victory Monument resembling the Arc de Triomphe. You can also find eternity and peace at Xieng Khouan Buddha Park where a Buddhist monk carved the magnificent, eerie statues out of concrete, based on Hindu, Buddhist and Brahman iconography.

Luang Prabang Retreat

It is a great moment to visit the charming Luang Prabang to have a splendid countryside view amidst the lush and eye-soothing mountains. Since Luang Prabang is the sacred city of golden temples and saffron robed monks it is a great opportunity for wonderful sightseeing. Also visit the famous Wat Xieng Thong temple, the gilded carved façade of Wat Mai and the national museum in the former royal palace. By climbing the 328 steps of the Phousi Mountain you can have the enchanting view of the lovely city and the surrounding mountains. An adventure lover can cruise along the Mekong River to visit the famous and sacred Pak Ou Caves and Kuang Si waterfall for a thrilling Laos holidays.

Luang Prabang Explorer

Find the best of Luang Prabang with Laos short break options as this UNESCO World Heritage city provides the lush bank of the tropical river surrounded by great mountains in the tranquil atmosphere. Spend some peaceful moments at the sacred city of golden temples and have a thrilling an exciting cruise along the sacred river to explore the famous Pak Ou Buddha caves and also enjoy swimming at the beautiful jungle waterfall. You can also attend a traditional silk dyeing and weaving class for a change. For an exotic cooking class in the exotic school, visit the most colorful and vibrant Phosy market.

About the Author

 

Get best deals on Laos tours at Buffalo Tours. Be it a short breaks tour, Buffalo tours has the best Laos short breaks tours to offer. Popular Vientiane Stopover, Luang Prabang tour is also available. Visithttp://www.buffalotours.com for more details.

Lonely Planet Vang Vieng

Experience one of the most distinctive destinations in Southeast Asia with Lonely Planet. Trek through rice fields into timeless thatched villages, visit magnificent unrestored temples or make like the locals and relax with a riverside Beerlao as the sun sets over the Mekong.
Lonely Planet guides are written by experts who get to the heart of every destination they visit. This fully updated edition is packed with accurate, practical and honest advice, designed to give you the information you need to make the most of your trip.
In This Guide:
Best ecotourism initiatives in Laos guide you through untouched wilderness
Unique culture itinerary helps you discover the real Laos
Cycling tours take you on wild two-wheeled adventures

Without Borders Vang vieng Laos


 

Inthira Hotel Vang Vieng

Inthira Hotel Vang Vieng

Located in the heart of Vang Vieng, this property offers clean and well-appointed, traditional Lao style rooms to suit any budget.

The property is within walking distance of the city’s main interesting sites. Each of the boutique style guestrooms is designed with modern fittings and feature offers a roof top terrace with a view of the famous limestone mountains which line the Nam Song River. In the nearby area, guests will find a wide selection of shops, restaurants, bars, cafes, bus stop and nightlife as well as the river and caves where they can explore. To top its list of facilities, access to the swimming pool of Ban Sabai Bungalow is only a 100 meters away.

Tour Laos

Enjoy Laos' Renowned Laid Back Atmosphere at Houay Xay and Experience Unique Ethnic Villages   

by Exotissimo Travel

Houay Xay, sometimes known as Ban Houay Xay is a town near the Thai border and is the capital of Bokeo Province. The town lies on the Western banks of the Mekong River opposite Chiang Kong Disctrict of Chiang Rai, Thailand and serves as the northernmost border crossing between the two countries. The town is home to several eye-catching temples as well as being a gateway to some of the region's most unique ethnic villages and the almost mystic-like Mekong Giant Catfish.

The most prominent temple in Houay Xay is Jom Khao Manilat Temple. It was built in 1880 and follows the Shan-style of architecture, with bright colorful paintings and murals. The temple's location on top of a hill allows visitors to watch the sun set over the Mekong River, a truly beautiful sight in itself. The temple is a short walk away from the ferry pier.

The local market, known as Talad Sao is a great place to experience the lifestyle of Houay Xay's residents and to observe the local products on hand. The best time to be at the market is early morning, when it is at its busiest and certainly at its most colorful.

About 20 kilometers away from Houay Xay is Ban Nam Sing Village. What makes this village interesting is that it is home to the Lao Huay ethnic group, one of the rarest in Southeast Asia. Their way of life has not changed much over the centuries, so it is best not to offer gifts to them as this will surely change their traditional lifestyle. A donation to the headman will be greatly appreciated instead, of which the proceeds will be used for the local school.

Ban Yong Hin Village, home to the Thai Lue people features a unique attraction. Here, the people live in mobile wooden houses. This is done by placing the house's stilts onto stones instead of into the ground. Not only does this provided mobility if the situation calls for it, but this distinctive architectural feature also protects their residences from termites.

If one wants to see how rice vermicelli (kanom jeen) is produced, then head over to Ban Khao Pun. Once there, having the kanom jeen with fermented fish sauce is a must try. The noodles here are of top quality along with the fish sauce.

An interesting attraction at Houay Xay is the Mekong Giant Catfish. There are reports of this fish growing to a length of three meters and some with a mass of about 300 kilograms. The catfish, sadly is in danger of extinction due to overfishing and development. They can however, be seen in the river during mid-April and May.

Houay Xay is certainly a pleasant town with its fair share of attractions. The town is easily accessible by foot and the whole town can be explored within a day. Your first destination in Exotissimo's Laos in Depth tour is at the laid-back border town. This tour is the perfect in-depth introduction to Laos, immersing you to its friendly people, intriguing spiritual culture and natural wonders.

If you like cycling, then why not try our Splendors of North Laos Biking Tour? This tour takes you to the wonders of this region, often overlooked by visitors to the country. The last leg of this memorable cycling tour is at Houay Xay. You can contact us if you would like to extend your stay at this charming town by the Mekong or if you would like to tweak any of our tours.

About the Author

 

Established in 1993, Exotissimo Travel is a well known Tour Operator with 16 offices throughout Southeast Asia. We have the expertise and connections to create your perfect tours in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Indonesia at the best possible price.

laos tour(ban nongbouatha)(5)


tour laos
tour laos

Laos Travel Guides

Janet Arrowood is a long-time and frequent visitor to South east Asia. Huge lakes, tremendous waterfalls, elephant rides, jungles, wonderful people, fabulous food. The sense of the new and unknown will amaze you. Prices? Phenomenally low. And the scenery is spectacular. Canoe on Vietnam's historic lakes, kayak the South China Sea, see some of the largest waterfalls in the world, visit the islands, trek to hill-tribe areas, visit former royal palaces, wander through local markets. The imperial temples along the Perfume River are unforgettable. Laos and Cambodia, almost undiscovered by Westerners, are lands of stunning scene. "Adventure Guides" are about living more intensely, waking up to your surroundings and truly experiencing all that you encounter. Each book offers an ideal mix of practical travel info along with culturally enriching activities and physical adventures. And the fun is for everyone, no matter what his or her age or ability. Comprehensive background information - history, culture, geography and climate - gives you a solid knowledge of each destination and its people. Regional chapters take you on an introductory tour, with stops at museums, historic sites and local attractions. Places to stay and eat; transportation to, from and around your destination; practical concerns; tourism contacts - its all here! Detailed maps feature walking and driving tours. Then come the adventures - both cultural and physical - from canoeing and hiking to taking dance or cooking classes. This unique approach allows you to really immerse yourself in the local culture.

"Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng" Mattandsarah's photos around Vang Vieng, Lao Peoples Dem Rep

laos travel guides

Luang Prabang Luxury Hotels

Luxury Travel to launch of a new 6 day tour "Laos for Families"   

by Luxury Travel Company

Luxury Travel Co., Ltd (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com ), Southeast Asia's the leading destination management is pleased to announce the launch of a new 6 day tour "Laos for Families".

Luxury Travel Co has announced the launch of a new 'Laos for Families' six day tour. The trip includes the current capital Vientiane and the former capital Luang Prabang, the two most visited destinations of Laos.

"This trip has been specially designed for families traveling to Laos from Bangkok or Hanoi. You are certain to be entertained by the Lao people, history, color and culture" said David Nguyen, Sales and Marketing Manager for Luxury Travel Company (www.luxurytravelvietnam.com).

With stunning nature, rich in heritage and friendly people, Laos really is an undiscovered gem in Southeast Asia.

Upon entering Vientiane, travelers will be surprised at the relaxed atmosphere and small-town charm of this capital city. This capital city is characterized by an eclectic mix of colonial-French buildings and ancient temples along with colorful markets.

Nestled in the valleys of the mountainous north is Luang Prabang, a former royal capital and now a World Heritage Site listed by UNESCO. This enchanting city, dominated by golden-roofed temples and bright saffron-robed monks, exudes a spiritual essence that is sure to capture your soul.

The six day tour offer includes accommodation in deluxe rooms at some of the best hotels in Laos, private boat trips on Mekong River, most meals, private transfers, excursions, elephant rides, private pick up and drop off service with an escorted English or French speaking tour guide. The tour can be booked last minute and customized to suit individual interests and schedules.

Guests can also request, restaurant reservations, meetings with artists, cooking instructors and designers, shopping recommendations, spa reservations, tours with special-interest lecturers, and exclusive access to local activities and cultural events for an additional charge.

For tour information and online booking, visit: http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com

About the Author

 

Luxury Travel Co., Ltd., Vietnam's First Luxury Tour Company, offers you carefree luxury travel so you and your family can focus on the fun, not the details. Challenge your skills at the country's most spectacular golf courses. Soak up the sun while being soothed by the sound of breaking surf. Hunt for high-fashion couture in the most elegant cities of Vietnam. Envision any vacation experience you want; name it, we deliver it in style.

Theviewpavilion luang-Prabang boutique hotel


 

Trekking in Laos

Great Trekking in Laos   

by Philip Ward

 Laos has become a popular tourist destination and in particular, the beautiful northern city of Luangprabang. Situated between Thailand, Cambodia and China, Laos is rapidly becoming a part of the SE Asia Tour program. This predominantly Buddhist country is also populated by many different ethnic Hill Tribe people and the remote mountain villages they inhabit will transport you back in time by a few hundred years. Laos is a poor country but the people accept their lot and get on with life in exactly the same way as have they for centuries. The people are friendly and there is a sincerity in their smiles of welcome.

Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, the old Colonial City of Luangprabang is magical and is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from the many cultural sights of interest, many visitors also take the opportunity to take part in some adventure sports or trekking into the mountains.
Trekking gives you the opportunity to see the real way of life and experience the sights and sounds of Hill Tribe villages. If you want to go Trekking then you need a good guide and Jewel Travel Laos have excellent, English speaking guides who will ensure you get the very most out of your Trek.
With a tropical climate, Laos is never really that cold but the three seasons are different. The hot season is between March and May and can get up to 36 degrees while the rainy season (June to October) is an average of 28 degrees. The cool season (November to February) is a great time to visit.
Electricity is 220 volts and works most of the time!!! Tap water is unsafe for drinking and it is advisable to drink only treated or bottled water. Thai Baht or the US dollar can be used almost everywhere rather than changing your money into Kip, which can only be used in Laos. The exchange rate varies a lot. Credit cards are acceptable (often a surcharge is included) and ATM machines are available in the bigger towns.
Medical facilities are basic to say the least and if you require any special medicine, then you should bring enough supplies with you. There are no trains in Laos but there are regular bus services as well as Mini bus companies and tour operators who will fix up your transport requirements. Locally, the Tuk Tuk is the easiest way to get around. It is important to find a reputable Tour Company and in Luangprabang, Jewel Travel Laos provides an excellent service. With dozens of great tours to choose from and great guides, Jewel Travel Laos comes highly recommended and there WebSite is http://jeweltravellaos.com

About the Author

 

At allthewebtrading we offer only the Best of the Best of the Web. We highly recommend http://jeweltravellaos.comwho have an excellent selection of tours with wonderful, English speaking Tour Guides.

Bus travel in wonderful Laos

Laos Plain of Jars

 

Laos Plain of Jars   

by cedric canierro

 Considered one of the poorest nations in Southeast Asia, you may think that Laos has nothing to offer being a tourist destination. That didn't hinder tourists to discover this archaeological wonder that has the makings of being an asia travel spot. Haven't you heard, there's this historical landmark that consists of thousands of jars scattered in the highlands of Laos called Plain of Jars. Situated at Xieng Khouang plain, this Laos pride consists of thousands of stone jars big and small distributed in the place.

It is believed that this stone jars ages from 1,500-2,000 years and older. According to a local folktale, the emerging of jars began when the king of the giants Khun Jeuam fought and won a battle against the evil ruler Chao Angka. The king, whose fond of throwing parties brew and store huge amounts of lao lao rice wine in this huge stone jars. When the archaeologists studied the jars, they have found burned bones, beads and iron tools leading them to the conclusion that these jars were used as giant urns to bury the dead. Another mystery yet unsolved is how the jars are made. Locals believed that these jars were made from clay, sand, sugar, and animal products mixing together to form a cement-like mixture.

Since the time of Pathet Lao-American war began, most of the jars were destroyed by bomb explosions leaving bomb craters and trench systems in the area. This makes the area dangerous until today due to unexploded bombs that was a result of massive bombardment of the recent wars. In fact only three sites of the plain is safe for visitors and locals alike. Aside from the huge stone jars, you can also found original artifacts like Buddhist statues, colonial items and scraps from the exploded bombs in the US war. Like no other, Plain of Jars is the mute witness of Laos' historical occurrence in the past and in the years to come.

http://asia-travel-freeport.blogspot.com/2008/05/laos-plain-of-jars.html

About the Author

 

Haven't you heard, there's this historical landmark that consists of thousands of jars scattered in the highlands of Laos called Plain of Jars. Situated at Xieng Khouang plain, this Laos pride consists of thousands of stone jars big and small distributed in the place.

Vientiane Laos Map

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="English: Map of the districts of Vientiane (Photo credit: Wikipedia)"][/caption]

Vientiane Laos Map

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"The Buddha Park" Linzstoker's photos around Vientiane, Lao Peoples Dem Rep (hindu praying hands)


 

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Set amidst 10 hectares of valleys and beautiful gardens and surrounded by mountains and a natural stream leading to the Mekong River, this Luang Prabang resort is a walk back in time. Boasting 67 elegantly designed rooms, bungalows and suites all with a terrace or balcony, the resort is just ten minutes from the airport and the city center. Onsite dining is available at Torseng Restaurant, serving international and Laotian dishes, with a view of the surrounding mountains and a 2-hour nightly cultural show. You also have Kinnaree Café, the Pool bar and the Lobby Terrace Bar for your enjoyment. Suited for business travelers, Pikaneth Conference Hall seats 150 participants for meeting or seminars, whereas guests on holiday can enjoy in one of the largest swimming pools available onsite. Rise early one morning and enjoy a walk in the gardens while the mist lingers over the mountains and drums can be heard from the nearby monastery. Villa Santi Resort & Spa guarantees a wonderful experience when visiting Luang Prabang.

Laos 2005 Luang prabang Villa Santi resort


villa santi laos