Plan Your Journey

Laos

Discover Laos: Where Life Moves at a Slower Rhythm

Laos is a country that invites you to slow down. From misty mountains and winding rivers to golden temples and quiet villages, its landscapes and traditions create a sense of calm that is increasingly rare to find. Here, the mighty Mekong flows through everyday life, monks walk quietly through ancient streets, and local communities continue traditions passed down through generations.

At the heart of the journey is Luang Prabang, where golden temples, French-colonial architecture and the rhythm of the Mekong come together in one of Southeast Asia’s most atmospheric towns. Beyond the city, Laos reveals another side of itself: dramatic mountain landscapes, hidden waterfalls, peaceful countryside and villages where life remains closely connected to nature.

Whether you come for culture, adventure, nature or simply the chance to travel at a different pace, Laos offers an experience that feels authentic, peaceful and deeply rewarding.

Sights

Map

Info

Places to Discover in Laos

Luang Prabang
The spiritual heart of Laos, Luang Prabang is a beautifully preserved town where golden temples, French-colonial buildings and the Mekong come together. Wander through its quiet streets, visit Wat Xieng Thong and climb Mount Phousi for views across the town and surrounding landscape. Nearby, the turquoise pools of Kuang Si Waterfalls offer a refreshing escape into nature.

Vang Vieng
Surrounded by dramatic limestone karsts and the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng combines spectacular scenery with outdoor adventure. Kayak along the river, explore caves, hike into the surrounding mountains or simply take in the landscape at a slower pace.

Vientiane
Laos’ relaxed capital offers a fascinating introduction to the country’s history and culture. Discover the golden Pha That Luang, the distinctive Patuxai Monument, riverside markets and peaceful temples while experiencing a city that feels far removed from the pace of larger Southeast Asian capitals.

Nong Khiaw & Northern Laos
For dramatic landscapes and a quieter side of the country, head north towards Nong Khiaw. Limestone mountains rise around the Nam Ou River, creating an extraordinary setting for hiking, river journeys and village encounters. This is Laos at its most peaceful and atmospheric.

The Bolaven Plateau
In southern Laos, the Bolaven Plateau is known for its cool climate, coffee plantations, waterfalls and lush landscapes. Explore local farms and villages, discover spectacular falls such as Tad Fane and Tad Yuang, and experience a different rhythm of life away from the country’s main cities.

The 4,000 Islands
Where the Mekong spreads across southern Laos, Si Phan Don, or the 4,000 Islands, offers a wonderfully slow-paced escape. Explore islands such as Don Khong and Don Det, travel by boat along the river and enjoy the peaceful scenery of one of the Mekong’s most distinctive landscapes.

When to Travel

Laos can be visited throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience.

November to February is generally the coolest and driest period, making it particularly comfortable for exploring temples, trekking and travelling through the countryside.

March to May brings hotter temperatures, while higher-altitude destinations such as the Bolaven Plateau can offer a welcome change of climate.

June to October is the greener, wetter season. Rainfall brings lush landscapes and fewer visitors, creating a quieter atmosphere for travellers who don’t mind occasional showers.

Practical Information

Currency: The official currency is the Lao Kip (LAK). Thai Baht and US dollars may also be accepted in some tourist areas, but Kip is useful for everyday purchases.

Language: Lao is the official language. English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, while French may still be encountered in some contexts.

Getting Around: Private transfers, buses, minivans, domestic flights and tuk-tuks are commonly used. Travelling by boat along the Mekong or Nam Ou can also be an unforgettable part of the journey.

Visiting Temples: Modest clothing covering the shoulders and knees is appropriate when visiting temples and other religious sites. Visitors should also be respectful when photographing monks and religious ceremonies.

Angkor Wat temple reflected in the water at sunset in Cambodia Previous Cambodia

Practical Information

  • Best seasons November to February
  • Language Lao
  • Currency Lao Kip (LAK)
  • Time zone UTC+7
  • Getting around Private transfers, buses, minivans, domestic flights and tuk-tuks
  • Visa Tourist visa required for many nationalities; e-Visa available

The best time to visit Vietnam

If you want to visit Vietnam, you might be wondering what the weather is like in different months. Well, it depends on where you go and what you want to do. Vietnam has a diverse climate, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. But don’t worry, I’ll give you a general overview of what to expect in each month, based on the average weather patterns. You can also check out the holidays and events that happen in each month in Vietnam.

January
This is a good month to enjoy the dry and pleasant weather in most parts of Vietnam, except for the north. The north can get quite cold, especially in the morning and evening. You might need some warm clothes and jackets if you go to places like Sapa and Ha Giang. If you’re looking for some beach time, head to Phu Quoc, where the sun is always shining. Just be aware that Halong Bay can be foggy this month, so you might not see the best views.

February
The weather gets warmer in most of Vietnam, except for the north, which still feels chilly. This is a high season for tourism, so expect more crowds and higher prices. But it’s also a great time to experience the TET festival, which is the Vietnamese New Year. It’s a big celebration with lots of food, fireworks, and fun. Just keep in mind that many shops, museums, and restaurants are closed for about a week during TET.

March
This is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, as the weather is fantastic everywhere. You have more options for beach destinations, such as Mui Ne, Con Dao, and Nha Trang. Hoi An is also a lovely place to enjoy the beach and the old town. This is also a great time to visit Halong Bay, which should have clear blue skies and no fog.

April
Like March, April is another great month to visit Vietnam, with amazing weather everywhere. This is also a high season for tourism, so be prepared for more crowds and higher prices.

May
The weather gets hotter in May, but it’s still a good time to visit Vietnam before the rainy season starts. You might get some rain in the north and south by the end of the month, but nothing too serious. You can also take advantage of the lower prices after the high season.

June
You might get some rain in the north and south of Vietnam, but it’s usually not too bad. You can still enjoy the sunny days in Hanoi, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay. The best place to be is in central Vietnam, where the weather is still dry and sunny. You can relax on the beaches of Lang Co and Hoi An, or explore the countryside and culture. This is also a good time to travel before the school holidays start next month.

July
Central Vietnam is still the best place to be in July, with lots of sunshine and little rain. The rest of Vietnam might have some showers, but they won’t ruin your fun.

August
Central Vietnam is still a good place to visit in August, although you might get some more rain by the end of the month. The rest of Vietnam might also have some rain, but it’s not too bad. You can also enjoy some discounts on flights and hotels during the low season.

September
This is a good month to catch the last sun on the central coast of Vietnam before it gets too rainy. The north and south are usually very wet this month, but you can still find some bargains on hotels.

October
The weather gets better in the north of Vietnam in October, and this is a great time to visit places like Sapa or Ha Giang. You can admire the stunning scenery of rice terraces, valleys, and mountains that change color with the seasons. You can also hike, bike, or stay with the local people who live there. This is not a good month for beach lovers, but Vietnam has so much more to offer than just beaches. And traveling in October means you avoid the crowds.

November
The high season starts again in November, as many people come to Vietnam for the cooler winter months in the north. By the end of the month, most of Vietnam is hot and dry again, except for the central region, which might have some rain.

December
There is still a chance of rain in the central part of Vietnam in December; however, most of Vietnam is hot and dry again. The beach season starts again on Phu Quoc island. You should book early for Christmas time, as it can get very busy.