Small Group Journey
Laos is a landlocked country located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, China, and Myanmar. With a population of approximately 7 million people, Laos is known for its stunning natural beauty, unique culture, and friendly people.
The official language of Laos is Lao, although many people also speak French and English, particularly in areas that attract tourists. Traditional Lao music and dance are an important part of the country's culture, with performances often featuring colorful costumes and intricate movements.
The people of Laos are known for their warm hospitality and kindness, with a strong sense of community and family values. Lao cuisine is also a highlight of the country, with dishes such as laap, a type of minced meat salad, and sticky rice, a staple of Lao meals.
Laos has a complex history, with periods of colonization and political turmoil. In the 19th century, Laos became a French protectorate, and French influence can still be seen in the country's architecture and cuisine. During the Vietnam War, Laos became a battleground, with heavy bombing causing widespread destruction and suffering.
In recent years, Laos has undergone significant development, with a growing economy and a thriving tourism industry. However, the country still faces challenges such as poverty and limited access to education and healthcare.
One of the main draws for visitors to Laos is its stunning natural beauty. The country's rugged terrain is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, and rare bird species. The Mekong River, which flows through the country, provides a lifeline for many of Laos' communities, with fishing and transportation playing an important role in daily life.
Laos is also home to many waterfalls, including the Kuang Si Waterfall, which is known for its bright blue pools and cascading tiers. Visitors can swim in the natural pools, hike through the surrounding forest, or relax in the shade of the trees.
Another popular natural attraction in Laos is the Plain of Jars, an area in the northeast of the country that features mysterious megalithic structures. The jars, which are thought to date back to the Iron Age, are carved from stone and range in size from small pots to massive urns. The purpose of the jars is still unknown, adding to the intrigue of the site.
Aside from its natural attractions, Laos is also home to a wealth of cultural sites. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a former royal capital that is known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional way of life. Visitors can explore Buddhist temples, stroll through the night market, or take a boat ride down the Mekong River.
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is another cultural hub, with a mix of traditional and modern architecture. The city is home to the iconic Patuxai monument, which is often referred to as the "Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane" due to its French-inspired design.
In conclusion, Laos is a country with a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a unique culture. Its friendly people, delicious cuisine, and wealth of cultural and natural attractions make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in Southeast Asia. From exploring ancient temples and mysterious jar sites to swimming in crystal-clear pools and hiking through lush forests, Laos offers a wealth of experiences for visitors of all interests.
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia known for its lush nature, unique culture, and friendly people. With a population of around 7 million, Laos is home to a mix of ethnic groups, including the Lao, Hmong, and Khmu. The country's stunning natural beauty includes waterfalls, rivers, and forests teeming with wildlife, such as tigers, elephants, and rare bird species. The people of Laos are known for their warmth and hospitality, and their traditional way of life is closely tied to the natural environment. Laos also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with Buddhist temples and French colonial architecture.
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Visa & Passport Information Ansova will arrange to provide you with a Visa-on-Arrival approval letter. A ‘visa approval letter’ from the government of Vietnam is the first step to the official visa. Once received, please print out two copies (one to be used and one for security). The invitation letter is required for check-in to your flight and for visa officials at the airport. Ansova will arrange for a representative to meet you once you’ve disembarked the aircraft and will escort you to the fast-tracked visa services.
What you will need: – Visa approval letter – Passport sized photo – USD $25 cash, for a single entry visa and USD $50 cash, for a multiple entry visa (ranging from one to three months) – At least 6 months validity on your passport – At least two blank pages on your passport
Visa A 30-day tourist visa is required for all visitors coming to Cambodia. Visas can be obtained on arrival for $30 in Phnom Phenh, Siem Reap and Preah Sihanouk.
The Cambodian government website also offers e-visas, so you can apply beforehand to speed up your entry into the country. They cost an additional $6 and take 3 days to process.
What you need: – $30 USD cash – two passport-sized photos (4cm X 6cm) – A passport that is valid for a minimum of six months beyond the entry date. – Your passport must have two blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps (Check your passport prior to leaving, to avoid being denied entry
Currency restrictions for entry and exit: – The import and export of local currency (Riel) is prohibited. When entering Cambodia, foreign currency amounts over US $10,000 must be declared. – Foreign currency can be taken out of the country up to the limit declared at customs on arrival.
Visa Tourist visas are required to enter Laos. The Lao government issues 30-day tourist visas on arrival at all international airports and most border crossings.
Make your way to the visa desk at arrivals and you will be directed through the procedure by staff. The process is quick and straight forward.
What you need: – USD $30 – $45 / CAD $40 – $60 in cash – One passport sized photo (4cm X 6cm). – Name and address of your hotel. – Your passport must have 6 months remaining validity to be allowed entry – Your passport must have two blank pages for the visa and entry/exit stamps (Check your passport prior to leaving, to avoid being denied entry) (endorsement pages are not considered blank).
Currency restrictions for entry and exit: – The import and export of local currency is not permitted. 2,500 USD or equivalent in foreign currency must be declared.
Visa Exemption Rule This rule allows tourists from 55 countries (U.S., Canada and UK included) to enter Thailand without a visa. They are granted to stay a maximum of 30 days if they are entering Thailand via an international airport or through a land border checkpoint.
Under the new provisions of the Visa Exemption Rule and Bilateral Agreement, effective December 31, 2016, passport holders of these 55 countries are entitled to enter Thailand under this rule provided they meet the following criteria:
1. Your visit must be strictly for tourism purposes.
2. You must have a confirmed return ticket to show that you are flying out of Thailand within 30 days of entry, as appropriate. Open tickets do not qualify. Traveling over land out of Thailand by train, bus, etc. to Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia (including en-route to Singapore), Myanmar, etc. may be accepted as proof of exiting Thailand. You may be asked to show your flight ticket upon entering Thailand. If you do not possess a flight ticket to show that you will be exiting Thailand within 30 days of entry, you will be most likely refused entry.
3. It will also be necessary to prove that you have funds of at least 10,000 THB or cash equivalent (about 305/USD and 410/CAD) per person during your stay in Thailand. A fee may be levied on persons entering Thailand under the VISA EXEMPTION RULE especially when entering through a land border in Southern Thailand.