Skip to main content

Laos

While some landscapes in Laos mirror those of its neighbors in Southeast Asia, the authenticity and tranquility of Laos’s culture and inhabitants capture the hearts of travelers. Buddhism permeates every facet of life in Laos, evident in glorious temples, sacred traditions and a peaceful ambiance.

“The untouched nature of Laos is what makes the country so special. Laos is a dream of a place where daily life moves slowly and peacefully.”—Dianna Upton, Consultant

Highlights

See and do:

  • Participate in The Buddhist Alms Giving Ceremony with hundreds of monks at sunrise in Luang Prabang
  • Marvel at the mysterious Plain of Jars, its fields scattered with thousands of ancient stone cylinders
  • Sip coffee at a plantation in the remote Boloven Plateau
  • Witness pink freshwater dolphins frolic in the Mekong River

Pairs well with:

  • Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar – all fantastic additions to a Laos itinerary

The ancient royal capital of Luang Prabang, now a UNESCO World Heritage City, and the modern capital of Vientiane are both enticing reasons to visit Laos. French Colonial architecture blends with Buddhist temples and a thriving monk community in Luang Prabang, while Vientiane touts the glittering stupa and national symbol That Luang, along with lively night markets and the notable Victory Gate, a monument that bears striking resemblance to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris but is dedicated to the Lao who fought for independence.

Active adventures like cycling, tubing, caving and trekking attract travelers to explore more remote regions in Laos and encounter caves and waterfalls near Luang Prabang or the many villages and unexplored corners elsewhere in the country. In the south, the Bolaven Plateau boasts an ancient Khmer temple complex predating Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, while the northeast intrigues visitors at the mysterious Plain of Jars, a collection of fields scattered with 2,000-year-old jars carved from sandstone and granite whose purpose and history is unknown.

Accommodations in Laos are quaint, and in many cases, quite charming. This is not a destination of ultra-luxe, opulent resorts but rather eco-lodges, enchanting inns and boutique hotels brimming with character.

Trip Inspirations

Genuine Experiences, Profound Moments

13 Days: A Deep Discovery of Laos

Rarely do travelers have an opportunity to connect with a country as deeply as this journey will connect you with beautiful Laos. This luxury adventure takes you from the lofty mountains in the north, to the stunning '4000 Islands' archipelago in the south. You will visit the country's most sacred and significant sites and witness its beautiful landscapes and vistas. Interact with remote villagers who continue traditions that have been passed on for centuries. When your exploration comes to end, you may find yourself leaving a piece of your heart in this exceptional country.

View Full Trip Inspiration

Travel Blog

Accommodation Styles in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is home to a wide variety of truly incredible accommodations. From environmentally-focused camps in Cambodia to ultra-chic resorts in Vietnam, luxury cruises in Indonesia to glamping in Thailand (the photo above shows you one example, at Four Seasons Tented Camp!), the region has a style perfect for you and your travel companions! Boutique Read more…

Wildlife Encounters in Southeast Asia

When travelers plan a trip to Southeast Asia, they initially embark excited for the cultural and culinary encounters that await. Steeped in ancient history, its temples, shrines and museums draw millions of visitors each year. As does its food, with world renowned dishes such as Pho and Pad Thai. It might be surprising to learn Read more…

Dianna and Natatlie_Bush Breakfast_Cropped for blog

Loved your trip to Asia? Why Africa should be next!

Those of you who know me or have worked with me can attest to the fact that there is nothing that gives me greater joy than traveling to Asia – the sweet aroma of spices and incense that clings to the air, the clanging of pans cooking up rice and noodles on the side of Read more…