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Laos FAQ

Is tipping customary in Laos?

Tipping isn't mandatory or customary in Laos, but a tip of spare change or another small amount would be appreciated by restaurants, drivers and other service workers, especially if the service has been particularly good.

What is the internet access like in Laos?

Internet access is available in tourist areas like Vang Vieng and Vientiane, but is far less likely to be found in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Laos?

You'll be able to use your mobile phone in most urban areas of Laos, although rural and remote areas may not have network coverage. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your mobile carrier before you leave home if you wish to use your mobile while in Laos.

What are the toilets like in Laos?

You'll have to adjust to different standards of hygiene and sanitation whilst in Laos. The standard toilet is of the squat variety and this may take some getting used to, although western-style toilets can be found in large hotels and some tourist areas.

What will it cost for a...?

Market snack = 7,000 LAK
Large bottle of beer = 9,000 LAK
Budget restaurant meal = 23,000 LAK
High-end restaurant meal = 55,000 LAK

Can I drink the water in Laos?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Laos. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found; some hotels we stay in may have drinking water available. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Laos?

Major credit cards are generally accepted by large shops, hotels and restaurants in the city and tourist areas. However, they may not be accepted by smaller vendors such as small family restaurants, market stalls or in remote towns and rural areas. Make sure you carry enough cash for purchases, since credit cards aren't always an option everywhere in Laos.

What is ATM access like in Laos?

ATMs can be found in the cities of Laos, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be problematic. Smaller villages and rural areas may not have ATM access, so prepare for this before venturing too far from a city or major town.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Laos?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Laos?

Jan 1 New Year’s Day
Jan 6 Pathet Lao Day
Jan 20 Army Day
Feb 10 Chinese New Year
Mar 8 International Women’s Day
Mar 22 Day of the People’s Party
Apr 13-15 Lao New Year (Bun Pi Mai) *
May 1 Labour Day
May 25 Buddha Day (Vesak)
Jun 1 Children’s Day
Dec 2 National Day
* Dates can vary for these holidays

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Laos/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Laos?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • LAOS:
    Australia:Yes - on arrival
    Belgium: Yes - on arrival
    Canada: Yes - on arrival
    Germany Yes - on arrival
    Ireland: Yes - on arrival
    Netherlands: Yes - on arrival
    New Zealand: Yes - on arrival
    South Africa: Yes - on arrival
    Switzerland: Yes - on arrival
    United Kingdom: Yes - on arrival
    USA: Yes - on arrival

    We ask all our travellers to obtain their Laos visas at the border, and NOT in their home country. Your tour leader will assist you in obtaining a Laos visa, generally at the border, depending on the current state of affairs, as it can vary.

    Please ensure that you have 3 passport photos and up to US$60 cash (this may vary too) to fulfil the requirements. There will also be an Immigration Fee of LAK5,000. To assist us in processing your Laos visas, please provide your agent with accurate passport details prior to the departure of your trip as these details will be passed on to our leader.

    When crossing the border you will most likely see a lesser entry fee than what you have paid. This is due to the leader having to use a local agent to process the visa which allows the group to cross the border as quickly as possible.
  • LAOS:
    Australia:Yes
    Belgium: Yes
    Canada: Yes
    Germany Yes
    Ireland: Yes
    Netherlands: Yes
    New Zealand: Yes
    South Africa: Yes
    Switzerland: Yes
    United Kingdom: Yes
    USA: Yes

    You can get your visa in advance, but a visa can easily be obtained on arrival at most airports from around 35-50USD (dependant on nationality). Please check with the consulate in your country for more details before you travel.

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Laos at a glance

  • 19
  • Vientiane
  • 6.3 million
  • Lao
  • LAK
  • (GMT+07:00) Bangkok, Hanoi, Jakarta
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin), Type B (American 3-pin), Type E (French 2-pin, female earth), Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)
  • +856

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