In recent years, Thailand has become a Southeast Asian travel hotspot—and for good reason! The country is rich in history, religion, food, and sites. 

But what about those of us who like to travel to the lesser-known areas of the world? Places that still hold true to ancient traditions, still honor cultural practices around cooking, religion, and celebrations, and places where experiencing life like a local is met when taking a stroll through a village or sitting down for a bit to eat at a roadside cafe. 

In Southeast Asia, this place is Laos. Like northern Thailand, Laos is surrounded by mountains full of lush greenery and wildlife. Unlike Thailand, much of Laos has been untouched by mass commercial tourism. 

Here are three reasons why we always recommend Laos to customers looking to experience the real Southeast Asia. 

Religion is an integral part of everyday life

Like many places in the world, traditional religious practices have become less frequent and are followed in many Southeast Asian countries. Laos, however, has preserved its Buddhist roots and honors its teachings through its people and temples. 

The majority of Laotians are practicing Buddhists. Visitors are welcomed and encouraged to participate in the daily ceremonies. Every morning, you can find locals giving alms and meditating. It is also common and expected to spot monks walking the streets and meditating outside of temples and stupas. 

When visiting Luang Prabang at dawn, visitors are welcome to observe and even respectfully participate in the daily alms-giving ceremony. This marks a unique opportunity to observe the slow, grounded, and spiritual side of Southeast Asia—one that is often overlooked or closed to tourists when visiting other countries in the region. Visiting Laos with Asia Desk is a very personal experience. Your host will take you to the place where they give alms themselves each day.

 

Surrounded by untouched natural beauty

If dense forests and jungles, populated by animals like elephants, monkeys, birds, and freshwater wildlife, and stunning waterfalls, caves, and other natural landmarks are an item on your must-see itinerary, Laos has you covered. 

Because major travel companies often overlook the small and secluded country, Laos has benefited by becoming a haven for nature and its inhabitants. 

For a throwback to a bygone age, we can arrange a multi-day journey down the Mekong from Thailand into Laos on a private local boat, allowing you to experience the river and mountains up close and enjoy slow travel, where the journey is the destination. Mountains surround that section of the Northern Mekong, making it a scenic view.

Welcoming and inviting locals 

Aside from its natural beauty, Laos is also home to hill tribe villages. In the village, the locals are warm and welcoming to passing tourists, often inviting them to experience daily life through the lens of a local. 

Being asked to sit down for a home-cooked meal, observe an ancient practice like silk spinning, or simply soak in the peaceful countryside is not an uncommon experience for the lucky tourists who add Laos to their list of destinations.  

When walking through local markets, you’re likely to spot the country’s popular dishes, including laap, a minced meat salad, and tam mak hoong. You’re also likely to spot influences from the country’s history of French colonial rule through fresh baguettes and delicious coffee. 

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To state it simply, Laos is extremely personal. For travelers interested in experiencing the untouched, authentic, and natural side of Southeast Asia, Laos is a clear choice. 

As one of our clients from the United States put it: “The people of Laos are so open and warm that it makes spending time in their cities/towns/villages so easy and rewarding, such an ideal escape from our daily lives.”

Ready to plan your trip to Laos? Reach out to us to get started! 

https://asiadesk.net/en/enquire/