Laos

In general, Laos (pronounced "Lao", by the way) is a relaxed country, especially when compared the hectic mess of Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is one of the few Communist countries left and its landlocked position and hills have slowed its economic progress. Only recently have paved roads connected Luang Prabang with the capital and even this is a slow, windy, and perhaps dangerous one. The people still live in thatch houses in the villages, which adds quite a bit to its charm. But Laos is really a gem of a country that hasn't seen too much tourism to be spoiled yet.


Places:
1. Vang Vieng
2. Luang Prabang
?. Jar of Plains
?. Four Thousand Islands

Sights/Activities:
1. Vang Vieng (Party)
2. Khuangsi Waterfalls (Natural Wonder)
?. Gibbon Experience

Beer of Laos: Laos has one beer, Beerlao and it is amazing. It is the perfect light beer for a hot and humid country, surpassing even those of Thailand, hands down. Considering how undeveloped the country is, I really have to respect the national beer. Grade: A.


Ice Cream of Laos: Like most other Asian countries, it ranges from non-existent to disgusting. Since there is almost no manufacturing in Laos, all of it is imported from Thailand or China anyways. Grade: F.

Exchange Rate: $1=8,540 Kip as of September 5, 2009.

Time Spent: 7 days, 6 nights.

Optimum Time Spent: 2 weeks. You could easily spend longer here, but a few weeks would give you a well-balanced look at the country and allow you to see most of what you would like.

Best Season:

Food Specialties: Baguette Sandwiches (this sounds odd, I know)