7 Reasons Why I Loved Laos

Out of every country I’ve ever visited, none captured my heart as quickly as Laos. A country rich in culture, gorgeous natural scenery and wonderfully kind people; it’s a real gem of Southeast Asia. While many travellers skip Laos to visit the more popular neighbouring countries of Thailand and Vietnam, I think this is a mistake. There are many reasons why I loved Laos, but here are 7.

The delicious food

Southeast Asia is known for its refreshing and flavourful cuisine, thanks to the use of delicious chillies, spices and herbs. Laos is no different. Vibrant, colourful and delightfully complex, Laotian food is bound to leave your tastebuds satisfied.

Vegetarian laap, green papaya salad, tom yup soup and fresh spring rolls were my favourite dishes. Oh, and let’s not forget khanom krok, which are delicious little coconut pancakes which can be picked up from stalls at many markets and high streets.

The slow pace of life

Laos may just be the most relaxed country in all of Southeast Asia. Even Vientiane, the capital city, seems oddly chilled for an Asian capital – a stark contrast from bustling Bangkok or chaotic Phnom Penh. The pace of life is slow here, making it a great place to unwind and explore at your leisure.

Head to the 4000 Islands in the south to really indulge in relaxation, or opt for a languid day of cycling or tubing in Vang Vieng. As the locals say, the PDR in Lao People’s Democratic Republic actually stands for Please Don’t Rush.

The outdoor activities

While Laos may have a relaxed attitude to life, that’s not to say it doesn’t know how to have fun. In the north of the country, you’ll find mountainous terrain perfect for hiking and rock climbing, as well as adrenaline activities such as ziplining. The Nam Song and Mekong rivers also flow through the country, providing fantastic kayaking, tubing and swimming opportunities.

Those with a little more sense of adventure should opt to take on the Thakhek Motorbike Loop, which is a 450km motorbike journey through the mountains and farmlands of southern Laos. Along the route, you’ll find caves and villages to explore.

The beautiful scenery

Limestone karst mountains, peaceful farming villages, waterfalls, rivers and caves; Laos is home to some seriously beautiful scenery. Despite severe deforestation in recent years, the country is still largely wild and untouched and is covered in jungles and forests.

In the mountainous north, you can opt to take the “100 Waterfalls Trek” to uncover some hidden natural sights, or rent a motorbike to discover the coffee plantations, farming villages and waterfalls of the Bolaven Plateau in the south.

The French heritage

Laos was colonised by the French in the 19th and 20th centuries, and this is very apparent across much of the country. In the cities of Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse, in particular, French architecture and Asian culture intertwine beautifully. It’s not unusual to find a European-style gelato parlour next to a temple, or a French café next to a noodle stall.

The Buddhist temples

Buddhism is practised across much of Laos, and as such, there are stunning Buddhist temples all over the country. Many are concentrated in the capital of Vientiane and the UNESCO city of Luang Prabang; these temples are beautifully designed, often carved with gold and ornate jewels.

Just 25km south of Vientiane, you’ll also find a sculpture park called Buddha Park, which is home to over 200 statues of Buddha and Buddhist symbols. It’s not a temple, but it’s interesting and well worth a look.

The waterfalls

There are thought to be hundreds of waterfalls scattered across Laos. The Champasak Province is home to some of the tallest; Tad Yuang, Tad Tayicsua and Tad Fane are three of the province’s most stunning waterfalls.

About 30km south of the city Luang Prabang, you’ll find the Kuang Si Falls. These falls consist of a myriad natural pools, accompanied by a large, cascading waterfall at the back of the complex. The Kuang Si Falls may be one of the most visited waterfalls in the country – for good reason.

There are so many reasons why Laos is one of my favourite countries. Maybe you’ve visited Laos before; what were your favourite things about the country?

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