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Frequently Asked Questions about Travel in Laos

Lao is the official language of Laos, but as a traveller, English is somewhat common, in particular in the towns popular with tourists. In the top destinations, you can fairly easily navigate the country and talk with the locals using English. 

The national currency is the Laotian Kip (LKP). It is definitely possible to travel in Laos on a budget.

1 CAD ≈ 15,500 LKP

Most countries need a visa to visit Laos, however, tourists from many nearby countries can travel for a short time visa-free. I have a dedicated post about how to get your E-Visa or Visa on Arrival for Laos, check it out. 

Make sure to check the visa requirements for your country if you are planning a trip to Laos. For the latest visa requirements, I check the Passport Index.

Safety in Laos can vary between areas. It is considered a relatively safe country, but overall medium risk. Staying aware of your surroundings (particularly after dark), avoiding higher-risk areas, and following local advice helps ensure a safer experience as a traveller.

It is especially important to be aware of the tragic backpacker deaths that have occurred due to alcohol poisoning, most notably in Vang Vien. This, perhaps, is the most dangerous risk to travellers in the popular tourist destinations. Beer is generally a safe choice if choosing to drink, but out of an abundance of caution, stay away from spirits/cocktails. Be extra careful with your drinks, don’t leave them unattended, and, advisably, don’t accept free alcohol or drinks of any kind. 

As with everywhere, make sure to travel with insurance – I always use SafetyWing Travel Insurance and have found it extremely simple to use and affordable for my travels. 

South Africa’s peak season is during the dry, cool season from November to February. 

Tap water is not recommended for drinking in Laos. Bottled water is readily available, or you can use a water purifier.

I always use Booking.com because I consider it to be the best place to book affordable accommodations worldwide. They have a huge selection of places to stay, from boutique hotels, luxury resorts, budget-friendly hostels, or complete apartments. 

If you prefer Expedia, you can always check out nice properties there. Gotta keep your gold status!