Laos Trip

[FatBoy]

Having never been there I'm considering a 7/10 day trip at the end of the month and would appreciate any advice.

I'm a photographer so this will be the main purpose.

Looking at Vientiane, Luang Prabang primarily.

Any other photogenic area's?

Also advice ref security, visa, currency exchange, accommodation, travel tips, do's and don'ts etc would be most appreciated.

Thanks in anticipation.

[hhfarang]

My wife just did a day trip to Vientiane from Nong Khai. She left her car on the Thai side and said it was easy to take a shuttle bus across the bridge and get a taxi on the other side. She took lots of photos, mainly of Wats or temples as they are a different style there. Her and her mother used the same taxi driver all day and it was cheap, and she said very safe. She said Vientiane was uncrowded, quiet for a capitol city, and that the people were smiling and friendly. She said it reminded her of the Thailand of her youth.

[migrant]

I've heard that the French influence is still strong in Vientiane, and that great bread, and cheese, is available!

[zevon]

My experience was that Vientiane had the air of a quiet town with a provincial feel rather than a bustling metropolis.
It made a pleasant change.
There is definitely a French/colonial influence for better or worse and I found the people to be friendly, helpful and smiling ( and in general even smaller than the Thais).
I would have no problems in imagining that a similar atmosphere would have existed in Thailand some years back.
Ah progress is such a wonderful thing.

As for safety/security again no problems or concerns at all and probably again reminiscent of Thailand back in the 50's or so

Good bread (french sticks) sold everywhere and Beer Lao is probably the best of its type in the region.

In Vientiane at least I found no reason to change money. Dollars and Thai baht widely accepted, any change given in kip but the hotel was happy to change this for baht upon departure. Yes I am sure that I could have perhaps found ways of obtaining a better rate for my baht but for the small amount involved it was not worth the hassle.

As for hotels I can not remember the name of the guesthouse I stayed at , but there are plenty around.
I found mine to be good value with again friendly helpful staff. Mine was excellent value with aircon, hot water and cable TV with good food available at the restaurant if required.
A little way out from the centre but transport to the centre was readily available when the walk seemed a bit too far.

Would I return? Yes without a doubt.

I look forward to reading your report of your adventures as seen with a photographer's eye

[Spitfire]

Been to Laos many times, Vientiane still has the French provinial achitecture and feel to it. Vang Vien is the town halfway between Vientianne and Luang Prabang, it's next to an old 'Air America' CIA landing strip.

Great opportunities for a photographer all over the show. As mentioned above, 3 currencies are acceptable in Laos, Thai baht, US dollars and Kip which is the official currency. If you go then take small notes with you of baht and $US, as many places will be unable to give you change for a 500/100 baht note or a $20 bill.

One thing to be aware of is the road trip up to Vang Vien/Luang Prabang, and that is that it's not for the faint hearthed, slim road carved into the side of the mountain with less than confidence inspiring drive happening on it.

Some may disagree but it certainly made me seriously consider my life at times.

Well worth a visit though, go for it, plenty to do.

As an aside, if you need medical attention for something then get your butt back into Thailand and go to a hospital over here, if you can. Hospitals over there aren't up to par with the Thai ones IMO.

[PeteC]

Here's another thread about Laos I started some time ago which never really took off. Perhaps some of the videos helpful with your planning. Pete

http://www.huahinafterdark.com/forum/vi ... =7&t=15060

[Bamboo Grove]

Only been to Vientiane, the first time was in 1990 and the last one in 2007. It hadn't changed much in between those years. I've stayed in guest houses near the river, which are quite basic but with ensuite bathroom and aircon. The location is good as it's easy to walk to most interesting places there. Vientiane is also a good place to sample nice French wines and don't forget the baguettes. If you know Thai, you can get well along in Vientiane. People will understand you but you may not understand when they talk to you in Laotian.

[FatBoy]

Thanks to you all.

Very helpful and reassuring

[johnnyk]

Luang Prabang not to be missed! Take the bus from Vang Vieng, jaw dropping mountain scenery.

[Dr Mike]

Just a note about health care--I agree with the statements about the hospitals--there is a good Clinic run by a friend Dr Jean-Marie Hospied, he is a very competent Dr. Although his clinic is independent I think it is called The French Embassy Clinic.