One of Asia’s most beautiful secrets, Laos can still be considered as an undiscovered jewel within Indochina. A relatively small land locked nation, traversed by the Mekong River and renowned for its mountainous scenery, French colonial architecture, hill tribes and Buddhist temples. Only recently emerging after years of isolation, Laos is a country of stunning natural beauty, friendly people and rich history. Vientiane, the capital, is the home to the That Luang monument, the Patuxai war memorial and Morning Market. Further north lies Luang Prabang, recognised by Unesco as a World Heritage Site, providing an outstanding fusion of traditional architecture and local structures. Laos remains slow paced and the perfect base from which to experience the Mekong region.