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"Laos"
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Laos
is one of the least developed countries in Asia for tourism and its
government is currently not very active in encouraging this potentially
valuable source of foreign exchange. The most practical way to arrange
a visit is with a pre-booked package tour, and many travellers organise
this through tour operators in Thailand. Entry to Laos is usually
via Bangkok to the capital, Vientiane.
The country is about the same size at the United Kingdom, but has a population of under five million. Over 80 per cent of the people are engaged in agriculture, forestry and fishing. The country is very poor and heavily dependent on international aid for economic survival. The political system is based on the Vietnamese communist model, but private enterprise is increasingly evident on a small scale.
The two main centres of population and tourist interest are Vientiane and the northern city of Laung Prabang. Vientiane (the name means City of the Moon) is a charmingly relaxed small tropical city, with a friendly people and very little traffic. Located beside the Mekhong River it has population of only 130,000.
Founded in the 16th century, the city contains a number of fine temples, including Pha That Luang (Great Sacred Stupa) which is the country's most important national monument; Wat Si Saket, containing hundreds of Buddha images; Wat Pha Keo, which is now a museum; and Wat Teu Mahawihan, with its huge bronze Buddha image. Other sightseeing attractions include the Pratuxai monumental arch and the bustling morning market, selling diverse goods and produce.
The northern city of Luang Prabang, reached by domestic air service from Vientiane, was itself once a Royal capital. It is now a sleepy, yet charming town, set beside the Mekhong River with several exquisitely ornate temples, of which Wat Xieng Thong is the most important. The former Royal Palace is now a museum and there are a number of buildings dating from French colonial times. A large hill dominates the town, but it is the majestic Mekhong that is the main focus for commercial and social life.
Excursions out of Luang Phabang include the 30 km boat ride upriver to Pak Ou Caves which contain thousands of antique Buddha images. The visitor can also explore a number of rural villages.
Among other touristic attactions in Laos is the mysterious Plain of Jars, with its huge stone jars of unknown use and origin. To the south lies Pakse, a small town with Angkor period temple ruins.
Laos has only limited facilities for tourists. Hotels are simple, but adequate. Restaurants serve mostly Thai or Chinese style cuisine, and there is little night lite. Souvenirs include hill-tribe handicrafts, hand-woven fabrics, carvings in wood, bone stone, jewellery and silverwares.