Expatriate Forums in Laos

Continuing your trip to Vietnam? And going to Nha Trang?

flamingosuites — Thu Mar 12, 2009 2:52 pm

Author: flamingosuites

Posted: Thu Mar 12, 2009 2:52 pm

Flamingo Suites Hospitality present the

Ha Van Hotel Nha Trang

This is Flamingo Suites’ first endeavor in the Central Coast of Vietnam.Nha Trang City was selected over other regions for its year round mild climate (no typhoon recorded over several centuries), abundance of sunny days right in the middle of a World Heritage listed bay with a very long stretch of easily accessible beaches.

The Ha Van Hotel is a well appointed 36 rooms budget hotel in Nha Trang, just a short walk from the main area frequented by all foreign tourists, and a stone throw from the favorite beachfront focus points preferred by most sun worshippers from everywhere. All modern essential amenities such as: a lift, wireless internet in each room, mini refrigerator, cable television and private bathroom are available to ensure a most comfortable stay at very competitive rates. Come join us to enjoy our genuine brand of hospitality, our team is standing by at your service!

One year and the Ha Van Hotel is already your favourite budget hotel in Nha Trang. Come join us to enjoy our genuine brand of hospitality. Our team is standing by at your service! Don't hesitate to contact us and see why more travelers choose to stay with us. At the Ha Van Hotel we are always glad to answer any questions that may arise while planning your trip to Nha Trang or Vietnam. We offer personalized advices and recommendations by email. Our goal is to help you have an unforgettable experience while travelling to Vietnam. Nha Trang is the most popular touristic destination in Vietnam, come so see why.

.PDF Map Of Nha Trang Here
Maps Of Vietnam!

Click the link here to visit our website!
Ha Van Hotel, from all Nha Trang Hotels, the most trusted!

Constantly rated among the top hotel on tripadvisor.com for Nha Trang
Ranked #3

Any questions? Please contact us!

Flamingo Suites' Ha Van Hotel
3/2 Tran Quang Khai
Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa Province
+84 583 525 454 (International Call)
0 583 525 454 (In Vietnam)
Email Us

Travelling to Luang Prabang in 3 weeks..

colonel — Sat Jan 26, 2008 6:21 pm

Author: colonel

Posted: Sat Jan 26, 2008 6:21 pm

:up:

What was the weather like?

I'm considering going there in April 2008 from Thailand.

ANY comment would be appreciated.

Travel To Russia

moNkaD8 — Thu Aug 10, 2006 6:30 am

Author: moNkaD8

Posted: Thu Aug 10, 2006 6:30 am

Please help.
Somebody travelled across Russia? How There?
I Am going to go here, advise, what route is better for choosing? Of what agency to take advantage? On the internet it is a lot of sites offering these services (gotorussia.com, russia-travel.com, 3btours.com, russia.com, etc.), but it were would be desirable to hear opinion of people which already there.
Thanks

Digital maps of Laos & Vientiane

derrybawn — Sun Jun 25, 2006 5:52 pm

Author: derrybawn

Posted: Sun Jun 25, 2006 5:52 pm

Does anyone know where I can get digital maps of Vientiane & Laos? I'm looking for somthing I can setup for use with Oziexplorer. <www.oziexplorer.com> I'm also looking for Bangkok & Thailand. I'd be grateful for any pointers.

Asia Cruise Lines, Cruise Trip Booking & Travel Info

admin — Tue Nov 01, 2005 4:05 pm

Author: admin

Posted: Tue Nov 01, 2005 4:05 pm

Asia Cruise Lines, Cruise Trip Booking & Travel Information

Cruise Lines Set Their Sights on Asia

Articles by
By AMY GUNDERSON
Published: October 2, 2005
New York Times

OVER the next year, Bob Fabian, a retiree from Charlotte, N.C., will visit Bangkok, Bali, Singapore, Hong Kong, Ho Chi Minh City, Pusan in South Korea, and some 10 cities in Japan. But his trips aren't taking him through countless airports and hotels - instead, Mr. Fabian is traveling around Asia by cruise ship.

"Bangkok is fabulous," he said. "The Grand Palace is just indescribable. It's like the eighth wonder of the world."

Mr. Fabian went with his wife on their first cruise to Asia a year and a half ago aboard a Crystal Cruises ship and was so enthralled that he booked three more cruises to the region. In December, the couple will take a 20-day trip from Singapore to Sydney aboard Princess Cruises' Diamond Princess.

Then next spring, they plan to sail on Oceania Cruises' Nautica from Hong Kong, making stops in Vietnam, Thailand and India before traveling up the Suez Canal to its final destination, Athens, some 35 days later. In October, it's a 14-day trip with Cruise West, a small-ship operator that docks in ports throughout Japan.

Until recently, Asian ports were the mainstay of smaller cruise lines or those so-called world cruises, globe-circling treks of typically 100 or more days that would include several stops in the Far East. But cruising makes going to Asia more accessible for many tourists - language barriers and the logistics of moving around the region are less of a problem when you can return to your ship each night - and airlines are beefing up their nonstop flights to the region. Now, travel agents are marketing sailings in Asia to cruise veterans and accomplished travelers as an alternative to the Caribbean and Europe.

"For baby boomers like me, we've all been there and done that," said Nancy Yale, a travel agent in Fairfield, Conn., who specializes in cruises and has seen her bookings to Asia increase exponentially over the last two years. "Some of my clients have been to Asia on business or have even done land tours there, but they are going back for cruises."

Operators are adding ships to the region, venturing into new ports and diversifying schedules to include shorter trips.

"Cruises to Asia are changing," said Carolyn Spencer Brown, the editor of CruiseCritic, an online magazine. "The cruise industry is trying to market to a younger, more active audience, so they are sending bigger, newer ships there. In the past, the oldest, smallest ships got the Asia assignment. There are also now shorter itineraries, so if you don't have three weeks off, you can go for 10 days."

Silversea Cruises - which will operate 17 separate cruises in Asia and Australia in 2006, ranging from 8 to 16 days - has a program that charges passengers daily rates so they can join a cruise at the port of their choice. Travelers can embark at any point, but must stay a minimum of five nights, for a daily rate as low as $480.

While most cruise lines have their ships in Asia for only part of the year, the Malaysia-based Star Cruises, which also owns Norwegian Cruise Line, runs trips year round in Asia. It caters primarily to Asian travelers, but its SuperStar Virgo itineraries attract the greatest diversity of passengers, including Australians, Britons and Americans. The ship maintains an Asian d�cor and restaurants - there is even a poolside noodle bar.

Princess Cruises launched its first full season of cruises in Asia in 2004, and next year is beefing up capacity in the region by 25 percent.

Holland America, which previously only stopped in Asia on world cruises or during 30-day sailings once a year, is moving its refurbished 1,258-passenger Statendam to the region in March for four cruises, some as short as two weeks.

Oceania Cruises' newest ship, the Nautica, will begin its service in November by sailing for five months in Asia.

There are also a growing number of itineraries to choose from. Princess Cruises, which distinguishes itself from most other operators by running summer cruises in Asia, is adding the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville - from which travelers can reach Angkor Wat - in 2006. Holland America also added more overnight stays in ports like Shanghai and Osaka.

Overnight stays in ports are also featured on Oceania Cruises.

"The overnights are very heavy on the Asia cruises," said Tim Rubacky, manager of Oceania's marketing and public relations. "They've become a trademark for us in Europe, but in Asia it is even more important."

The extra time allows travelers plenty of opportunity to get into a city, and comes in handy for checking out the night life. Reaching a city center or shore excursion can mean a trek of a half-hour or more from the port. Hanoi, which is on Oceania's itineraries, is about a three-hour drive from Halong Bay.

Though many cruise lines are delving into trips that take up less time, long-haul world cruises are still a standard offering, and they can also be bought in shorter segments. Radisson Seven Seas Cruises' Seven Seas Voyager goes to Asia as part of its 108-day world cruise. As the ship makes its way from Sydney to Dubai there are three trips ranging from 14 to 22 nights. Radisson added Rangoon to the 2006 itinerary, and the ship spends multiple nights in Hong Kong, rather than just a single overnight stay. In 2007, Holland America will run three longer cruises, including a 105-day trip on the Amsterdam that will stop for the first time in Nha Tran, Vietnam; Tuticorin, India; and Salalah, Oman.

The Queen Mary 2 will run its first world cruise in 2007, an 80-day trip that can be bought in segments as short as 14 days. The ship's 19-day trip from Sydney to Dubai will stop in Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Cochin, India. While the cruise ships might be swathed in luxury, often the Asian ports are not, but that is also changing. Singapore upgraded its port in 1998, and Shanghai broke ground on a new cruise ship terminal that should be completed by early 2007.

"The majority of ports there are not what you might see in the U.S.," said Mr. Rubacky. "But with more ships returning to Asia, countries are starting to put a better face on the ports."

Asia Cruise Lines Guide

The number of cruise lines sending ships to Asia has increased markedly in the past couple of years, making it easier to travel in the Far East. All prices below are per person double occupancy and do not include air fare unless noted.

Star Cruises
http://www.starcruises.com/
(60) 3 3101 1313, Star Cruises is the biggest Asian based cruise line and one of the fastest-growing in the world. Starting with two ships in 1993, the company owns ten ships at the moment. The Star fleet consist of three distinct brands: Star, SuperStar and MegaStar. The cruise line has bought many ships from other cruise lines (the former Sun Viking from Royal Caribbean, the former Golden Princess from Princess Cruises and even the former Baltic ferries Athena and Kalypso. Star Cruises has also purchased the luxury liner Europa from Germany's Hapag-Lloyd with plans to convert it to the most luxurious ship cruising in Asian waters. The cruise line is also building new ships, the first two are already in service - the superliners Superstar Leo and Superstar Virgo. .

Holland America,
http://www.hollandamerica.com
(877) 724-5425, has three 14-day cruises aboard the 1,258-passenger Statendam. On March 20 and April 17, 2006, the ship departs from Hong Kong and travels north with overnight stays in Shanghai and Xingang, from which passengers can reach Beijing and the Great Wall. The boat also visits Dalian, China; Pusan, South Korea; and Nagasaki, Japan, where onshore trips tour Shimabara castle and a samurai village, before reaching Osaka. It does the reverse route on April 3. Prices start at $2,199.

Princess Cruises
http://www.princess.com
(800) 774-6237
The 670-passenger Pacific Princess, leaves Bangkok on Aug. 17, 2006, for Mumbai, India. The 16-day trip stops at Sihanoukville, Cambodia; Phu My, Vietnam - where passengers can reach Ho Chi Minh City; Singapore; Kuala Lumpur and Penang in Malaysia; Phuket, Thailand; Colombo, Sri Lanka; and the port of Mormugao on the west coast of India. It does the reverse route on Sept. 1, 2006. Prices start at $2,995.

Seven Seas Cruises
http://www.rssc.com
(877) 505-5370,
The 14-night segment of a world cruise on Radisson 700-passenger Seven Seas Voyager, departs Feb. 24, 2006, out of Hong Kong and includes overnight stays in the Vietnamese ports of Ho Chi Minh City and Hong Gai, where travelers can visit Halong Bay or Hanoi. The ship also stops in Bangkok before arriving in Singapore. Until Oct. 15, fares start at $9,296, including air fare, but if you book flights separately you can get a $1,400 credit against the cost of the cruise.

Cruise West,
www.cruisewest.com
(888) 851-8133
The small-ship operator is offering its inaugural tour of Japan aboard the 120-passenger Spirit of Oceanus. It is sold out for 2006, but space on all of its seven 2007 voyages remains. The trip lasts 14 days and includes two nights at hotels at the start and end of the 10-night cruise. It leaves from Kobe or Niigata and stops in eight Japanese ports including Okayama, home to the 17th-century Korakuen Garden, and Izumo, site of the country's oldest Shinto shrine, as well as Pusan, South Korea. The 2007 cruises start at $5,699, and depart Niigata on March 28, April 17 and Oct. 18, and leave from Kobe on April 7 and 27, Oct. 8 and 28.

TOURISM IN LAOS GUIDE (Regions, Hotels, etc...)

Anonymous — Sat Apr 30, 2005 10:18 am

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 10:18 am

TOURISM IN LAOS GUIDE (Regions, Hotels, etc...)

Vientiane & Northern Laos

VIENTIANE: One of Asia’s most relaxed and quiet capital cities, Vientiane is nestled in fertile plains on the banks of the Mekong River. Many buildings reflect the country’s past links with Europe, such as the old French colonial houses and the capital’s Victory Monument, which bears a striking, if somewhat rococo, similarity to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. An important national monument is the 16th-century That Luang (Royal Stupa) that symbolises Buddhist and Lao union. Other interesting sights include the Lao Revolutionary Museum; Wat Ho Prakeo, a former royal temple; Wat Sisaket, one of the capital’s oldest temples; Wat Xieng Khouang (Buddha Park), situated 24km (15 miles) south of the city and displaying fascinating Buddhist and Hindu structures.

XIANG KHOUANG: Xiang Khouang province in the northeast of the country is characterised by lush green mountains and Karst limestone. The capital, Phonsavan, enjoys a favourable climate being at an altitude of 1200m (3937ft). The unusual Plain of Jars is accessible from the city and offers the mysterious sight of hundreds of stone jars, some weighing up to 6 tonnes, scattered over the landscape. The jars are over 2000 years old and legend says that they were used to ferment rice wine in the sixth century in order to celebrate a victory in battle. Some 52km (32 miles) north of Phonsavan, visitors can enjoy bathing in two hot springs: Bo Noi and Bo Yai.

LUANG PRABANG: This ancient royal city has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995. Located between the Mekong and Khan River, it is the cultural and religious centre of the country, boasting 32 large temple complexes. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most impressive temples, decorated with coloured glass and gold. Testament to the fact that it had been the royal capital until 1975, the royal palace there contains fine artwork and gifts made for former kings. Nearby, in the town centre, visitors can ascend Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of the city and surrounding rivers. Also worth seeing is the Palace Museum (the former royal palace), easily recognisable by its golden-spired stupa, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts from old rulers of the Kingdom of Lane Xang.

Excursions: Close by is Ban Phanom Village, famous for its weavings, which offers the opportunity to visit a traditional community and to purchase bargain-priced silk and embroideries. Around 25km (16 miles) along the Mekong river lie the fascinating Pak Ou Caves, that can be easily reached by speedboat from Luang Prabang. The two caves, Tham Ting and Tham Phun, are full of Buddha images that have been left there over hundreds of years by worshippers. Further downriver is the small village of Ban Xang Hai, famous for its production of rice whisky. Also worth seeing are the Kuang Si Waterfalls, situated 30km (19 miles) from Luang Prabang. Visitors can swim in the lower pools.

LUANG NAMTHA: Situated in the far northwest of Laos, Luang Namtha province is a mountainous region, with areas of tropical rainforest and over 39 ethnic minority groups. An ecotourism project for the region has been proposed by UNESCO. Muang Xing is a small town on the river plains which used to be an outpost for an ancient southern Chinese empire. A number of guest houses can offer hiking trips starting from here.

Southern Laos

KHAMMOUANE: Khammouane province is accessible from Vientiane by bus. The region is currently being explored for its potential as a place for ecotourism, and its amazing limestone formations, caves, rivers and jungle make it a unique environment. Its capital, Tha Kek, is a good place to reach other sights, such as the Tham Xieng Lap Caves and the That Skihotabang, a stunning stupa built by King Nanthasen in around the 10th century.

SAVANNAKHET: Within easy reach by bus from Khammouane is Savannakhet province. Positioned between Thailand and Vietnam, the province acts as a useful trading junction between the two. Most of the town’s architecture is French colonial, including a large Catholic church, although there are several buddhist temple buildings worth seeing, such as Wat Sainyaphum. It is possible to walk the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a former clandestine route used by the North Vietnamese Army to transport military gear to South Vietnam. The trail was bombed by the USA during the Vietnam war and parts of this devastation can still be viewed. However, the trail must be seen with a guide as large parts of the route still contain unexploded bombs.

CHAMPASSAK: Pakse, capital of Champassak province, is easily reached by air from Vientiane. Pakse is home to many ethnic minority groups, much of the Bolaven Plateau and the famous, although relatively unvisited, Wat Phu temple. Wat Phu was constructed around the fifth century on a mountain top near fresh spring water by the Khmer Hindus, who went on to settle their empire at its former capital – Ankor Wat (Cambodia). There are breathtaking views across the Mekong valley from the temple. The complex can be reached by chartered boat along the Mekong river. Other excursions worth making are to the Bolaven Plateau, where visitors can enjoy elephant riding and trekking, and to Sii Pan Dan (Four Thousand Islands), where islands are formed during the rainy season on the Mekong river. There is the opportunity to see spectacular waterfalls and the endangered irriwaddy dolphins.

HOTELS IN LAOS

Champasack (southern Laos, on the bank of Mekong river, near old Khmer temple "Wat Phu")

Champa Residence Hotel
Road 13 South (near Mekong Bridge). PO Box 504, Pakse, Champasack.
Phone: +856-31-212 120; Fax: +856-31-212 765, 212 649
Email: champare@laotel.com
Hotel, car & boat rental.

Champaxaise Hotel
Ban Done Samsib, Pakse, Champasack.
Phone: +856-31-212 563; Fax: +856-20-530 778

Houyyangkham Hotel
Km 5, 13 South Road. Houyyangkham Neua. PO Box 89, Pakse, Champasack.
Phone: +856-31-212 755, 212 756; Fax: +856-31-212 792

Luang Namtha (northern Laos, hilltribes, China border) |

Hongtha Xaysomboun Hotel
Phomvihanh Road, Ban Saysomboun, Luang Namtha.
Phone: +856-86-312 078, 312 456; Fax: +856-86-312 079

The Boat Landing Guest House
PO Box 28, Luang Namtha.
An ecolodge located on the banks of the Namtha river and offering guests access to the Nam Ha Protected Area through rafting, kayaking, trekking and mountian biking.
Phone: +856-86-312-398; Fax: +856-86-312-239; Email: theboatlanding@yahoo.com
Web site: www.theboatlanding.com

Luang Prabang (Northern Laos, on the bank of Mekong river, museums, Lao style temples, weaving, waterfalls, hilltribes, boating)

Ban Lao Guesthouse
80/5 Ban Mano, Luang Prabang.
Phnoe: +856-71-252 078, 212 438; Fax: +856-71-212 438

Hotel Souvannaphoum
Ban Thatluang, Chao Fa Ngum Road. PO Box 741, Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212 200; Fax: +856-71-212 577
Email: sunaphum@laotel.com

Maniphone Guesthouse
Phouvao Street, Ban Pongkham, Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212 636

Manoluck Hotel
121/3 Phou St., Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212 250, 212 509; Fax: +856-71-212 508; Mobile: +856-20-570 666, 570 054

New Luang Prabang Hotel
Sisavang Vong Rd., Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212264; Fax: +856-71-212804
Hotel close to the famous tempels such as Wat Phousi, Wat Visoun.

Phou Vao Hotel
Domaine De Phou Vao, P.O. Box 50, Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212194; Fax: 856-71-212534
Url: www.pansea.com
Hotel with 57 rooms and 2 suites.

Phousi Hotel
Setthathirath Rd., Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212192, 212717-8; Fax: +856-71-212719

Villa Santi
Rue Sakkarine, Luang Prabang.
Phone: +856-71-212267, 252157; Fax: +856-71-252158

Phongsaly (Northern province, hilltribes, Chian border)

Phoufa Hotel
Ban chommeuang, Phongsaly.
Phone: +856-88-412 057; Fax:+856-88-314 794

Vientiane (Capital city, temples, markets, bridge over Mekong to Thailand) | Back to top

Anou Hotel
01-03 Hengboun St., Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-213630-2; Fax: +856-21-213632
Hotel in town center, Lao traditional cuisine.

Asian Pavilion Hotel
379, Samsanthai Rd., Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-213430, 213431; Fax: 856-21-213432
$25 to $60 a room.

Darasavanh Guesthouse & Restaurant
Ban Houay Hong. PO Box 4614, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-450 403

Lane-xang Hotel
Fangum Rd., Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-214102, 214106; Fax: +856-21-214108
Hotel with 109 rooms, $22 and above.

Lao Hotel Plaza
63, Samsenthai Rd., Vientiane
Phone: +856-21-218800-1; Fax: 856-21-218808
Hotel.

Mekong Hotel
Luang Prabang Road. PO Box 2161, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-212 938; Fax: +856-21-212 822
Email: mekonght@laotel.com

Napakuang Resort
Ban Thinkeo, Keoudom District, Vientiane.
Phone/Fax: +856-21-215244
Eamil: napakuan@laotel.com
Hotel with 24 air-conditioned rooms. Located near Nam Ngum dam lake 80 km north of Vientiane city.

New Apollo Hotel
Luang prabang Rd., Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-213343, 214462; Fax: +856-21-213245
Hotel, from $20 to $30 a room.

Novotel Hotel
Unit 9, Samsenthai Rd., Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-213570, Fax: 856-21-213572
Email: novotlao@loxinfo.co.th

River View
Luang Phabang Rd., Ban Sithan Neua, Vientiane.
Mobile: +856-16-216244-6, 216231; Fax: +856-16-216231

Royal Dokmaideng Hotel
Lanexang Av., P.O.Box 3925, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-214455,214477; Fax: +856-21-214454

Samsenthai Hotel
Manthathoulat Street, Xiangnyeun Village, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-212 116, 216 287; Fax: +856-21-216 287; Mobile: +856-20-518 258

Sene Souk Hotel
100, Km 2, Luang Prabang Rd., Ban Khounta Thopng, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-213 375, 215 567; Fax: +856-21-217 449; Mobile: +856-20-514 454

Settha Palace
6, Pang Kham St., Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-=217581; Fax: +856-21-217583
Email: settha@laonet.net
Url: www.setthapalace.com

Tai-pan Hotel
2-12, Francois Nginn St., Ban Mixay, Muong Chanthabury, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-216 906 - 9; Fax: +856-21-216 223
Email: taipan@loxinfo.co.th
Url: www.travelao.com and www.laohotelgroup.org

Tamnak Lao Guesthouse
That Luang Road, Ban PhonXay, Vientiane.
Phone: +856-21-413 562; Fax: +856-21-213 632; Mobie: +856-20-511 905
Email: anouhotel@laonet.net

TRAVEL IN LAOS INFORMATION & TIPS

Anonymous — Sat Apr 30, 2005 10:16 am

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 10:16 am

LAOS TOURISM & TRAVEL TIPS

Contact Addresses

Location: South-East Asia.

Country dialling code: 856.

Lao National Tourism Authority (LNTA)
PO Box 3556, Lane Xang Avenue, Hadsady, Chanthaboury, Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (21) 222 971. Fax: (21) 212 251.
E-mail: info@visit-mekong.com
Website: www.visit-mekong.com/laos

Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic
74 avenue Raymond Poincaré, 75116 Paris, France
Tel: (1) 4553 0298. Fax: (1) 4727 5789.
E-mail: ambalaoparis@wanadoo.fr
Website: www.laoparis.com

Adventure World Ltd
Street Address: 179 Progress Drive, Bibra Lake, 6163 Western Australia, Australia
Postal Address: PO Box 1186, Bibra Lake, 6965 WA, Australia
Tel: ( 5417 9666. Fax: ( 9417 3132.
E-mail: fun@adventureworld.net.au
Website: www.adventureworld.net.au

British Embassy
PO Box 6626, Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (21) 413 606. Fax: (21) 413 607.
British Embassy staff are resident in Bangkok (see Thailand section). Trade Office staff are resident in Vientiane.

Embassy of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic
2222 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Tel: (202) 332 6416. Fax: (202) 332 4923.
E-mail: laoemb@starpower.net
Website: www.laoembassy.com
Also deals with enquiries from Canada and Mexico.

Embassy of the United States of America
Street address: 19 rue Bartholonie, That Dam, Vientiane, Laos
Postal address: BP 114, Vientiane, Laos
Tel: (21) 212 581-9. Fax: (21) 212 584.
E-mail: khammanhpx@state.gov
Website: http://usembassy.state.gov/laos

Note: The Canadian Embassy in Bangkok deals with enquiries relating to Laos (see Thailand section).

Passport/Visa

Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required?
British Yes Yes Yes
Australian Yes Yes Yes
Canadian Yes Yes Yes
USA Yes Yes Yes
OtherEU Yes Yes Yes
Japanese Yes Yes Yes

PASSPORTS: Passport with at least six months remaining validity required by all.

VISAS: Required by all.

Types of visa and cost: Tourist, Business: €50 (including service and document fees). Families may only be charged €50 per family if all living at the same address, and same surname is indicated on passports.

Validity: Validity starts from day of entry into Laos. Tourist/Business: 30 days (can be extended in Vientiane for 30 days for two times). Visas must be used within three months of being issued.

Application to: Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy) or an officially recognised tour operator. A visa valid for Laos can also be obtained from travel agencies in Bangkok (Thailand) or on arrival (see above). Visas are issued on arrival at 14 international checkpoints throughout Laos, including Luang Prabang Airport, Pakse Airport and (Wattay) Vientiane International Airport for stays of 15 days, and costs US$30. For futher details, contact the nearest Embassy.

Application requirements: (a) One passport-size photo. (b) One signed and completed application form. (c) Valid passport. (d) Fee payable by cash or cheque. (e) Postal applications should include an additional €5 (inside France) or €10 (international), to cover postage. Business: (a)-(e) and, (f) Letter from sponsor in Laos.

Working days required: Three.

Temporary residence: Enquire at nearest Embassy or Consulate. For extension of visa, consult the Immigration Office (tel: (21) 512 012); neglecting to do so will result in a fine of US$10 per day until leaving the country.

Money

Currency: Lao Kip (Kip) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of Kip5000, 2000, 1000, 500 and 100.

Currency exchange: Thai Baht and US Dollars are the easiest currencies to exchange. They are also widely accepted in shops, markets and hotels in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

Credit & debit cards: Major credit cards are accepted in the more upmarket hotels and tourist-oriented restaurants. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available.

Travellers cheques: Limited acceptance. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take travellers cheques in US Dollars or Thai Baht.

Currency restrictions: The import and export of local currency is prohibited. There are no restrictions on the import or export of foreign currency, but amounts greater than US$2000 must be declared.

Exchange rate indicators
The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Lao Kip against Sterling and the US Dollar:

Date May '04 Aug '04 Nov '04 Feb '05
£1.00= 14078.0 14447.7 14848.5 15542.2
$1.00= 7882.00 7842.00 7841.00 8230.0

Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1330-1730.

Duty Free

Duty-Free: The following goods may be imported into Laos, from countries not bordering Laos, without incurring customs duty:
500 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g of tobacco; 1 bottle of alcoholic beverage and2 bottles of wine; personal jewellery up to 500g.

Public Holidays

Jan 1 2005 New Year’s Day. Jan 6 Pathet Lao Day. Jan 20 Army Day. Feb 1 Chinese New Year. Mar 8 International Women’s Day. Mar 22 Day of the People’s Party. Apr 13-15* Lao New Year (Pi Mai). Apr 21 Birth of Buddha. May 1 Labour Day. Jun 1 Children’s Day. Jun 21 Khao Pansa (Buddhist Fast begins). Aug 13 Lao Issara (Day of the Free Laos). Sep 11 Bouk ok Pansa (Buddhist Fast ends). Oct 12 Day of Liberation. Dec 2 National Day. Jan 1 2006 New Year’s Day. Jan 6 Pathet Lao Day. Jan 20 Army Day. Jan 29 Chinese New Year. Mar 8 International Women’s Day. Mar 22 Day of the People’s Party. Apr 13-15* Lao New Year (Pi Mai). May 1 Labour Day. May 13 Birth of Buddha. Jun/Jul Khao Pansa (Buddhist Fast begins). Jun 1 Children’s Day. Aug 13 Lao Issara (Day of the Free Laos). Sep Bouk ok Pansa (Buddhist Fast ends). Oct 12 Day of Liberation. Dec 2 National Day.

Note: *Variations may occur.

Health

Special Precautions Certificate Required
Yellow Fever No 1
Cholera Yes 2
Typhoid and Polio 3 N/A
Malaria 4 N/A

1: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers arriving from infected areas.

2: Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is not a condition of entry to Laos. However, cholera is a serious risk in this country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination, as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness; see the Health appendix.

3: Typhoid may occur. Poliovirus transmission has been interrupted, but complete eradication is not yet certain.

4: Malaria risk exists throughout the year in the whole country, except in Vientiane. The malignant falciparum form is prevalent and is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine. The recommended prophylaxis is mefloquine.

Food & drink: All water should be regarded as being potentially contaminated. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with pure water. Avoid dairy products that are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks: Hepatitis A and E occur; hepatitis B is highly endemic. Dengue fever, diphtheria, tuberculosis and Japanese encephalitis occur. Some vaccinations may be advised. Liver fluke (opisthorchiasis) is present; travellers should avoid eating raw or undercooked fish.
Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.

Health care: Any treatment must generally be paid for in cash. Health insurance is essential and should include cover for air evacuation.

Travel - International

Note: Penalties for illegal drug importation and use are severe and can include the death penalty. Over the past year there have been explosions in the capital Vientiane and attacks on buses, resulting in injury and death. There are also reports of banditry in rural areas and unexploded ordnance is an ongoing danger. It is illegal not to carry an ID document or a passport, and fines for not having one for presentation on demand can be high. The Lao Government prohibits sexual relationships, including sexual contact between foreign citizens and Lao nationals, except when the two parties have been married in accordance with Lao family law. Penalties for failing to register a relationship range from fines to imprisonment. Most visits to Laos are trouble-free.

AIR: The national airline of Laos is Lao Aviation (QV) which serves the international routes from Vientiane to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam), Bangkok and Chiang Mai (Thailand), Phnom Penh (Cambodia) and Kunming (China). Thai Airways International (website: www.thaiair.com) flies from Bangkok; Vietnam Airlines (website: www.vietnamairlines.com) flies from Hanoi.

International airports: Vientiane (VTE) (Wattay) is 3km (2 miles) from the city (travel time – 20 minutes). Taxis cost US$5, on average. Facilities include bank/bureaux de change, bars, post office, restaurants and car hire.

Departure tax: US$10; children under two years of age and transit passengers are exempt.

RAIL: There are no railways in Laos, but the Thai system stretches from Bangkok via Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai on the Laos/Thailand border. A ferry and a bridge links the Lao side of the Mekong, 19km (12 miles) east of Vientiane.

ROAD: It is possible to enter Laos from Thailand at Nong Khai over the Friendship Bridge. Other border crossings include Chiang Kong (Thailand)–Houei Xay (Laos) in the north; Mukdahan (Thailand)–Savannakhet (Laos); Chong Mek (between Pakse and Ubon Ratchathani); Nakorn Phanom (Thailand)–Tha Kek (Laos) and Jouay Kone (Thailand)–Xaingnabouri (Laos). It is possible to enter Laos by road from Vietnam either at Lao Bao or at the new border post of Lak Xao near Vinh. Laos can also be entered from China, from Mengla in Yunnan province to Luang Nam Tha. Overland travel to Cambodia and Myanmar is not feasible owing to security risks. Internally, the road link between Vientiane and Luang Prabang to the north has been upgraded.

Travel - Internal

AIR: Domestic air services run from Vientiane to Houayxai, Luang Nmatha, Luang Prabang, Oudomxai, Sam Neua and Sayabouti in the north and Pakse and Savanakhet in the south. Private charter flights are also available through Westcoast Helicopters.

RIVER: The Mekong and other rivers are a vital part of the country’s transport system. The choice is between irregular (and very basic) slow ferries and exciting but noisy and hazardous speedboats. Both services run from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and Luang Prabang to Huay Xai. Ferries often depart early in the mornings and can take several days, whilst speedboats run more regularly and take approximately eight hours for each leg of the journey. Times and prices alter according to demand. Private jet boats can be hired from Lao River Exploration Services. For further details, contact Lao National Tourism Authority (see Contact Addresses section).

ROAD: Traffic drives on the right. Many of the roads have been paved in recent years, including the main highway from the Thai border at Savannakhet to the Vietnamese border. However, few main roads are suitable for all-weather driving. In the north of the country, there is a road link between Vientiane and Luang Prabang, and from Vientiane to Nam Dong and Tran Ninh. Bus: Services link all major towns and cities. Buses can vary from the more traditional type to the converted pick-up truck. Car hire: It is not recommended to hire cars in Laos as driving standards are low. However, it is possible to hire cars with a driver through hotels or tourist agencies. Asia Vehicle Rental Co Ltd in Vientiane can help visitors with all their rental needs (tel: (21) 217 493 (and fax) or 223 867; e-mail: avr@loxinfo.co.th; website: www.avr.laopdr.com). Documentation: International Driving Permit recommended, although it is not legally required.

URBAN: There is a mixture of old and metered taxis in Vientiane that can usually be located at Wattay Airport, the Friendship bridge and the Morning market. Taxis can also be hired for approximately US$20 per day. Converted motorcycles, known as tuk-tuks or jumbos, are available in all major towns and cities and are perfect for shorter journeys around town. Bargaining is expected. Motorcycles and bicycles can be hired for the day in Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

Note: Travel outside Vientiane should be prearranged with a tour company.

Accommodation

HOTELS: There are good hotels and guest houses in Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane, but facilities are sparse elsewhere. Local village hostels are available, but with few amenities. For more details of prices and location, contact a tour company with experience in Laos.

CAMPING: There are no facilities for camping in Laos.

ECOLODGES: Laos is eager to promote ecotourism and visitors can stay in specially constructed ecolodges in either Laopako, one hour 30 minutes from Vientiane on the Nam Mgum river, or the Boat Landing in Luang Namtha province.

Sport & Activities

Wildlife: Laos’s pristine landscape hosts a variety of flora and fauna, including rare primates, mammals and birds. Freshwater dolphins can be found in the Mekong river. There is still some unexploded ordinance in the countryside, and official advice should be taken about which areas to avoid.

Trekking: Travellers can head to the hills independently or take part in locally organised guided tours.

Mountain biking: The lack of cars makes cycling a good proposition. Terrain can be difficult, however, and there are not many roads. Visitors are advised to bring their own bicycles, though there are some for hire in the larger towns.

Climate

Throughout most of the country, the climate is hot and tropical, with the rainy season between May and October when temperatures are at their highest. The dry season runs from November to April.

Required clothing: Lightweights and rainwear, with a sweater for winter and upland areas.

LAOS BACKPACKER GUIDE

Anonymous — Sat Apr 30, 2005 9:37 am

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 9:37 am

Backpacker in Laos Guide

Intro: Currently Asia's hippest destination, from Beijing to Islamabad, the name Laos is being whispered among backpackers as some fantastic, esoteric, void of tourists destination. I am sorry, it is not. As nice as it is, many parts are becoming an extended run from Thailand for many visitors. If you want to see Laos you need to spend the time and effort getting to the hill tribe areas in the north (this is best done to or from China). The idea is that because tourists have only been allowed into Laos since 1989, that you will be a novelty and see the last bit of real Southeast Asia. Well the really good days have gone five to ten years back, which is where many of the stories come from. It is a nice destination and the north is unique, but on the whole, especially the Luang Prabang - Vientiane run, you may see more tourists than in Thailand, after all it is just next door. If you do spend the time and effort travelling further a field you will be a novelty, but you would have earned it, as overland, (non-river) transport is very hard work.

Highlights: Luang Prabang, Northern hill tribe areas, Muang Sing, a river boat trip and the lake of a thousand islands in the south

Lowlights: Vientiane and Muang Vangviang (aka. Vangviang - nice, but nothing but an over-developed backpacker town now, karst mountains and caves in China more impressive)

Visa strategy: Get your visa for 15 or 30 days in Bangkok or on arrival at the Friendship bridge. A Laos visa in Vietnam is much more expensive than in Bangkok where it is easy to obtain. In Bangkok it is possible to get a one month visa in one working day. The cost, if you go yourself to the embassy at 8am and collect it in the afternoon should be B1350 (for most western nationalities, cheaper for Asian & Israelis, more expensive for Canadian, American, Japanese or German). The embassy is quite remote and tricky to get to (Bus No60, then taxi), you will be better off to leave the work to an agency for a commission of as little as B100-150 (check around). A one month visa should cost B1500 and a 15 days visa B1000.

Crossing into Cambodia: The overland border between Laos and Cambodia - long closed is now open. For years this boarder attracted a lot of attention from the elite type backpackers. Original info was to go to Don Det island, (south from Don Khong) then to the Friendship cafe (or something else like that). At the boat landing you can organize a boat to the road then a truck down to the Laos border. At the border you must pay 5USD (or kip equivalent) to get stamped out of Laos. Onwards, the speedboat to Stung Treng is 10USD per person. At the Cambodian border, pay about 10-20USD (bargain - don't over do it). This is now much easier and frequently used - but there is still no visa on arrival.

Typical tourist trail: Chang Mai crossing, boat to Luang Prabang with an overnight stop. Bus to Vangviang then Vientiane (or in reverse). Then sometimes back to Thailand or the bumpy ride onto Vietnam

Dangers: Considering how sleepy Laos is you would not expect any danger, but take a look at your countries advisory website, there have been bomb blasts in Vientiane and guerrilla activity in the past. There is of course much unexploded ordinance in rural areas.

Hot/cold, wet and dry: You will not be able to travel happily by road to the north and south of the country in the wet season, but high rivers make river travel possible at and after this time of year.

Costs: Cheap, even with eating like a king in Luang Prabang $15 a day is fine. However boat trips and air fairs are subject to foreigner pricing and drain your funds a little. North Laos is cheaper than the South.

Money: Count on no ATMs, the ATMs situation is constantly changing as Laos continues to develop. At present only count on finding an ATM in the capital. Best to use ATMs in Thailand to get USD or THB cash and take this across if needed. USD traveller cheques fine in big cities. The kip comes in small notes and takes some carrying if you change a lot at once

Getting around: Fast boats give you the thrill of your life, but on reflection are not that safe, but amazing on say the Nam Ou river if there is enough water. Slow boats are more relaxed, but a little noisy. Try one of each. Some buses okay, others very hard work. You are sometimes limited to the back of trucks, this is why river transport is such a blessing. Travelling in Laos is hard work.

Guide book: Rough Guide. For a full list of regional guides and other reading please click here.

People vibe:

Locals: Some foreigner pricing, but generally friendly

Other travellers: Some want-to-be hard core travellers, generally the normal 'Banana Pancake' crowd

Tourist factor: 8/10 to 4/10, depending on how much punishment your arse/butt takes getting somewhere

Accommodation: Some nice places, often basic, but very cheap

Hot water: Limited, only in bigger towns

Average cost: $7, more expensive in Vientiane

Communications: Internet in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Vangviang

Media: Limited, but developing all the time (by the time you read this, the way things are going there will be a 10 screen cinema complex in Vangviang). For photos click here

Food: Brilliant food in Lunag Prabang, god bless the French for bringing their bread and little triangles of cream cheese. Food a little limited to rice outside major backpacker centres

Vegetarians: Generally fine

Hassle and annoyance factor: None

Women alone: Fine, beware of Buddhist and local customs

Drugs, cigarettes and alcohol: Opium and grass readily available in most of the country. Great beer, but do us all a favour and don't buy the t-shirt

Foreign embassy in Laos directory directory

Anonymous — Sat Apr 30, 2005 9:36 am

Author: Anonymous

Posted: Sat Apr 30, 2005 9:36 am

Foreign embassies in Laos directory directory

Australia
Nehru Street, Vat Phonsay area
Tel: 413610, 413805, 413602

British Trade Office
Nehru Street, Vat Phonsay area
Tel: 413606

Cambodia
Thadeua Road, Bane Thatkhao
Tel: 314952, 315251, 315252, 314954

China
Vatnak Road, Bane Vatnak Noi
Tel: 315100, 315103, 315105, 315107, 315108

Cuba
128 Bane Saphanthong Neua
Tel: 312904

France
Setthathirat Road, Bane Sisakhet
Tel: 215253, 215257, 215258, 215259, 217571

Germany
Sokpaluang Road, Bane Sokpaluang
Tel: 312110, 312111, 312112, 312113, 312116

India
That Luang Road, Bane Phonesay
Tel: 413802

Indonesia
Phonkheng Road, Bane Pholsaat
Tel: 413909, 413910

Japan
Sisangvone Road, Bane Sisangvone
Tel: 414400, 414402, 414403, 315031, 315032

Korea (DPR)
Vatnak Street, Bane Sisattanak
Tel: 315260

Malaysia
ThatLuang Road, Bane Phonsay
Tel: 414205, 414206, 414732

Mongolia
Thadeua Road, Bane Beungkhayong
Tel: 315220

Myanmar
Sokpaluang Road, Bane
Tel: 314910, 314912, 314171

Poland
Thadeua Road, Bane Vatnak
Tel: 312086

Russia
Bane Thaphalanxay
Tel: 312218, 312219, 312222, 312223

Sweden
Sokpaluang Road, Bane Vatnak
Tel: 315018, 313772, 315003

Thailand
Phonkheng Road, Bane Phonsaat
Tel: 214580, 214582, 214583, 214585

Thailand Consulate (Temporary address)
Nanhai Hotel, Ratsavong Seuk Rd
Khanthabouli District, Savannakhet Province
Tel: 041-212261

United States
Thatdam Bartholonie Road, Bane Thatdam
Tel: 213966, 212581, 212582, 212585

Vietnam
That Luang Road, Bane Phonsay
Tel: 413400, 413401, 413402, 413403

Vietnamese Consulate
Bane Vatphabat, Pakse, Champassack
Tel: 031-212058, 031-212827