THE JEWEL OF SOUTH EAST ASIA

Lao People’s Democratic Republic (known simply as Laos) is often referred to as ‘the jewel of South East Asia’ and has remained relatively untouched from the modern world, making it an intriguing destination to visit. This tiny landlocked nation is bordered by China and Myanmar to the north, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south and Thailand and the Mekong River to the west. It’s often been said that the real beauty of Laos lies in it’s people, the centuries-old traditions and it’s lush countryside. 

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Luang Prabang has regularly been ranked as one of the most desirable places to visit. This sleepy town, nestled along the Mekong River, is littered with glittering temples and traditional residences that are infused with French colonial architecture. Each morning at sunrise, magical Luang Prabang is home to hundreds of saffron-robed monks parading through the streets, participating in the almsgiving ceremony, an old Buddhist ritual steeped in tradition and one of the region’s most iconic images.

Vientiane is the largest city, situated on a plain just northeast of the Mekong River. This tranquil city and nation capital is often bi-passed by tourists, in favour of Luang Prabang.

Laos holds the unwanted tag of being the most bombed country in the world.  Sadly, the United States dropped more than two million tons of bombs over the country, as part of a covert attempt to wrestle power from communist forces between 1964 and 1973. It remains one of the world’s few remaining communist states and also one of Asia’s poorest.

This amazing country has so much to offer and should be added to your ‘bucket-list’ if you haven’t already been.  For information on travelling in and around Laos, our trusted partner Tour East can arrange accommodation, transfers, excursions and tours.  Contact us on:  sales@select-rep.com