Laos information

Laos (/ˈlaʊs/, or /ˈleɪɒs/), officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in southeast Asia, bordered by Burma (Myanmar) and China to the northwest, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Thailand to the west. Laos traces its history to the Kingdom of Lan Xang or Land of a Million Elephants, which existed from the fourteenth to the eighteenth century. After a period as a French protectorate, it gained independence in 1949. A long civil war ended officially when the communist Pathet Lao movement came to power in 1975 but the fighting between factions continued for several years.
Private enterprise has increased since the late 1990s when economic reforms including rapid business licensing were introduced. Laos is still ranked among the lowest countries in terms of economic and political freedom. The economy of Laos grew at 7.2% in 2006, 35th fastest in the world. 80% of the employed practice subsistence agriculture. The country's ethnic make-up is diverse, with around 70% belonging to the largest ethnic group, the Lao. (...) more....

Laos travel guide by

If you are a US passport holder planning to travel either for business or as a tourist, a valid visa will be required. Since local visa regulations keep changing frequently please check the latest visa and passport requirements with our partner American Passport Express who can provide you with fast and professional expert support on getting all necessary passport and visa documents arranged in time for you travels. Mention tripwolf when you contact American Passport following the link below to ensure eligibility for special rates and services.

Laos travel guide by

Contrary to popular belief, there are ATM's have recently opened in other places besides Vientiane. You can now withdraw money in Huay Xai, Luang Nam Tha, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabant.

Laos travel guide last edited by cristina