5 minute read
LAOS Authentically Hidden Beauty
LAOS
Authentically Hidden Beauty
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by Dimitri Laspas
Laos is Indochina’s last frontier. It is a mesmerising mix of 49 ethnic groups with over 90 native languages. As a former French colony, the mansions still stand as coffee shops and boutique hotels infused with French elegance sit alongside the ruins of ancient Buddhist temples. Laos captivates travellers, whether they are looking for adventure, luxury, or something unique.
Located in the centre of the Southeast Asian peninsula, it is surrounded by Myanmar, Cambodia, China, Thailand, and Vietnam. There is something for everyone, from the capital of Vientiane to the immense blanket of green nature covering much of the country from the emerald tea plantations to the lime-green paddy fields together with the Mekong flowing 1,835km through the country.
Laos is as authentic as it gets, creating a truly unique experience. The slow pace of life, the emphasis on individually crafted, artisanal products is still strong, allowing the country to be modern when needed but keeping tradition and culture at its core.
Each ethnic group is usually recognised by their distinctive dress, as well as variations in their handicrafts – with patterns and designs passed down through generations.
Around three-quarters of Laos is made up of mountains and plateaus making it a nature - lovers paradise with trekking, rafting, mountain biking and national parks full of elephants, tigers and leopards.
Vientiane, the capital city is the smallest capital in Southeast Asia. It is also known as the City of the Sandalwood, but the largest city in Laos. It is a cosy city with a laid back pace and peaceful charm. Its main attractions are all in walking distance to each other.
Patuxay Monument - Vientiane, Laos
‘That Luang’ is the national symbol of Laos; an imposing golden monument that reflects the Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty. Built in 1566, the temple is a combination of Asian pagoda architecture and the traditional Laotian temple specific to the region.
Laos’ ancient royal capital, Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sits on the banks of the Mekong River. Steeped in history, stunning river views and many cultural attractions, it is a paradise with domed roof temples and preserved colonial buildings. Here hundreds of saffron-robed monks can be seen in the streets chanting making it a place of serenity and spirituality.
Luang Prabang - Nam Kahn River, Laos
The Vang Vieng region is accessible by a new road from Luang Prabang. The journey there is part of the experience passing small traditional villages and stunning mountain scenery. Ideal for those wishing to discover its serenity and natural environment, it is well known for its amazing landscapes amidst rice fields and hills. The area also has many caves, cliffs and waterfalls to discover.
The region of Northern Laos is mountainous with lush vegetation. It is crisscrossed with many rivers and rice paddies. Here, the local way of life remains as it has been for years and where modernity has not changed the pace of life or how things are done, making it a truly authentic place to visit.
Vang Vieng
In Southern Laos, Champasak is one of the most visited areas of the country. The Wat Phu temple, known as the mountain temple, offers spectacular views as well as being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The temple dates from the preAngkorian period and is built in the traditional Khmer architecture, originally being dedicated to the Hindu religion.
bridge spanning the Mekong, the city is a major commercial area and tourist destination. Pakse is located at the convergence of the Mekong River and its much smaller tributary, the Xe Don. With a
The Bolovens Plateau is 1250m above sea level and is 50km from the town of Pakse. With opulent landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, and pristine forests; the plateau is famous for its coffee, tea and pepper. There are many ethnic villages to explore in the area.
Si Phan Don is an archipelago of river islands. The landlocked ‘Four Thousand Islands’ offer relaxation in a stunning environment. Of all the islands, Don Khong is the most peaceful, with palm tree lined river banks and rice fields. Don Det offers small market stalls and life is simple here; time has almost stood still! Don Khone is another dream island ideal for beautiful walks or bike rides. A bridge connects this island with Don Det, dating back to French colonial days.
Laos along with its neighbours offer a perfect MICE region offering. Laos, although still a newcomer to the sector, offers something different from its neighbours and either as a stand-alone destination or a multi city package, the hosting opportunities are many for small as well as large corporate events, Laos is the place.
Pakse, Laos
Its natural scenery, slow pace of life, serenity, laid-back feel, combined with its strong Buddhism presence in everyday life as well as colonial charm and enchanting hospitality, makes Laos a regional winner, even without the modern super-highways or sky scrapers and modern frills of today’s life. Your visit or MICE event if held in Laos will offer original and pure experiences.
