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My Ultimate Laos Travel Cheat Sheet for 2025: Essential Tips From 5 Visits

My ultimate Laos travel cheat sheet for 2025 with insider tips on transportation, food, etiquette, and budget hacks I've learned from multiple visits. Save money and experience authentic Laos like a local!

Introduction: My Love Affair with Laos

I’ll never forget the moment I stepped off the plane at Wattay International Airport in Vientiane back in 2018. The humid air hit me like a blanket, carrying scents of lemongrass, jasmine, and something indefinably exotic. I was exhausted after 27 hours of travel, my backpack felt like it weighed a ton, and I realized with horror that I’d forgotten to notify my bank about international travel. Standing there with non-functional credit cards, barely enough cash, and jet lag clouding my thoughts, I wondered if I’d made a terrible mistake.

Five visits later, Laos has become my soul country – the place I return to whenever life back home becomes too loud, too fast, or too complicated. This guide isn’t something I’ve researched from a distance; it’s a collection of hard-won wisdom, embarrassing mistakes, and unexpected joys from someone who’s navigated the beautiful chaos of Laos multiple times.

Whether you’re sipping BeerLao beside the Mekong at sunset, negotiating with tuk-tuk drivers in broken Lao, or trekking through mist-covered mountains in the north, this cheat sheet will help you navigate Laos like someone who’s been there before – because I have, again and again.

Essential Planning: What’s New for 2025

Laos has undergone significant changes since reopening post-pandemic, with updated visa policies, new infrastructure projects, and shifting tourism patterns. Here’s what you need to know for 2025:

Visa Updates

The visa situation has evolved considerably since my first visit:

  • E-Visa system: Finally fully operational in 2025, allowing most nationalities to apply online through the official Lao E-Visa portal
  • Visa-on-arrival: Still available at Wattay International Airport (VTE) and major border crossings for 30-day stays (35-40 USD depending on nationality)
  • Extended visas: The 60-day tourist visa option introduced in late 2023 remains available for 65 USD
  • New multiple-entry options: Introduced in 2024, allowing two entries within a 60-day period (75 USD)

Insider Tip: I’ve found the visa-on-arrival process at Wattay Airport to be significantly faster if you arrive on weekday mornings. The e-visa system, while convenient, sometimes has processing delays during high season (November-February), so apply at least 7 days before travel.

Covid-19 Requirements (Updated for 2025)

As of my latest visit in early 2025, Laos has eliminated nearly all Covid-related entry requirements:

  • No vaccination proof needed
  • No pre-departure or arrival testing
  • No quarantine requirements
  • Travel insurance covering Covid-19 is recommended but no longer mandatory

Important: While restrictions have eased, I strongly recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance. During my 2022 visit, I caught a nasty case of food poisoning that required hospitalization in Vientiane – my insurance saved me over $1,200 in medical bills!

Best Time to Visit in 2025

Laos has three distinct seasons, and timing can make or break your trip:

Season Months Conditions Best For
Cool & Dry November-February Pleasant 15-28°C (59-82°F), minimal rain Overall best time, ideal for trekking, outdoor activities
Hot & Dry March-May Hot 30-40°C (86-104°F), hazy from agricultural burning Water festivals, fewer tourists, budget accommodations
Rainy June-October Heavy rainfall, flash floods, difficult rural roads Lush landscapes, Bolaven Plateau waterfalls, lowest prices

My recommendation for 2025: Late January to early February hits the sweet spot – comfortable temperatures, clear skies for photography, and the post-holiday tourist numbers have decreased. Plus, during my February 2024 visit, I scored hotel discounts of 20-30% compared to December rates.

“The best thing about visiting during shoulder seasons is not just the savings. It’s the way locals have more time for genuine conversation when they’re not overwhelmed with peak-season tourists.” – My journal entry from April 2023

Getting There and Around

Flying to Laos in 2025

Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane remains Laos’ main international gateway, though Luang Prabang (LPQ) also receives some international flights:

  • New routes for 2025: Direct flights from Singapore to Vientiane (SIN-VTE) have increased to daily service, and the new Bangkok-Pakse route (BKK-PKZ) started in late 2024 makes southern Laos more accessible
  • Regional connections: Most visitors still arrive via Bangkok (BKK/DMK), Hanoi (HAN), Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), or Kuala Lumpur (KUL)
  • Budget airlines: AirAsia, Thai Smile, and VietJet offer the most affordable options to Vientiane and Luang Prabang

Money-saving flight hack: I’ve consistently found that booking two separate tickets – one international flight to Bangkok and a separate regional flight to Laos – saves 15-25% compared to booking a single itinerary. Just make sure to allow at least 3 hours for connection time!

Border Crossings and Land Travel

Land borders have fully reopened since the pandemic, with some improvements:

  • Thailand: The Friendship Bridge crossings (Nong Khai-Vientiane, Mukdahan-Savannakhet) remain the most popular and efficient
  • Vietnam: Nam Phao-Cau Treo border offers stunning mountain scenery but can have slower processing
  • China: The Boten crossing has seen major upgrades since the railway launch
  • Cambodia: The Dom Kralor-Veun Kham crossing often has more limited hours (typically 8am-5pm)

My border crossing disaster: During my 2022 trip, I arrived at the Chong Mek-Vang Tao border (Thailand-Laos) at 4:45pm, only to find they’d changed closing time to 4:30pm. I ended up stranded overnight in a tiny Thai border town where no one spoke English! Always double-check current border hours before traveling.

Getting Around Laos in 2025

Transportation options have expanded considerably in recent years:

The Game-Changing Railway

The Laos-China Railway opened in December 2021 and has revolutionized north-south travel:

  • Runs from Vientiane to Boten (Chinese border) with stops in Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, and other locations
  • Journey time from Vientiane to Luang Prabang: just 2 hours (compared to 8+ hours by bus)
  • Current ticket prices (2025): 110,000 LAK (~10 USD) for second class, 210,000 LAK (~19 USD) for first class
  • Ticketing now available online through the official Laos-China Railway platform

Insider railway tip: During my December 2024 visit, I discovered that booking tickets 3-4 days in advance is essential for weekend travel between major destinations. For the most scenic views of karst mountains and valleys, request seats on the left side when traveling north, right side when traveling south.

Other Transport Options

  • VIP buses: Still the most affordable option between major cities (120,000-200,000 LAK for long routes)
  • Minivans: Faster than buses but more cramped, popular for shorter routes (100,000-150,000 LAK)
  • Rental scooters/motorbikes: 80,000-150,000 LAK per day depending on model and location
  • Tuk-tuks: Ubiquitous in cities, expect 20,000-40,000 LAK for short trips within Vientiane
  • Ride-hailing: LOCA (Laos’ version of Grab) now operates in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse

“Experiencing Laos by slow boat from Huay Xai to Luang Prabang might not be the fastest route, but watching daily life unfold along the Mekong over those two days taught me more about Laos than any guidebook ever could.”

Accommodation Insider Knowledge

Laos’ accommodation scene has evolved dramatically since the pandemic, with new boutique options and shifting price points:

Booking Strategies for 2025

  • Advance booking: Now essential for high season (November-February) in major destinations
  • Direct bookings: Many Lao guesthouses offer 10-15% discounts for WhatsApp/email bookings versus platform bookings
  • Longer stays: Negotiating weekly rates can save 20-30% (this worked brilliantly for my 8-day stay in Luang Prabang)
  • Booking patterns: Book Vientiane and Luang Prabang in advance; smaller destinations often still have walk-in availability

Money-saving accommodation hack: During my last trip, I discovered that many guesthouses and small hotels aren’t listed on major booking platforms but have Facebook pages. I found my favorite place in Champasak this way and paid just 120,000 LAK (~11 USD) for a riverside bungalow that would easily cost double on booking sites.

Where to Stay in Key Destinations

Vientiane

The capital has seen significant development along the Mekong riverfront area:

  • Best neighborhood for first-timers: Nam Phu Fountain area (central location, walking distance to major sights)
  • Best for longer stays: Sisaket neighborhood (more local vibe, better weekly rates)
  • My personal favorite: Mintho Guesthouse near That Dam – family-run with incredible breakfast (280,000 LAK/night)

Luang Prabang

Accommodation in the UNESCO Heritage city continues to expand beyond the peninsula:

  • Heritage zone: Most atmospheric but highest prices (500,000+ LAK for decent rooms)
  • Ban Phonheuang area: 10-minute walk from center, better value (300,000-400,000 LAK)
  • Across the Nam Khan River: Peaceful, beautiful views, cheapest options (200,000-300,000 LAK)

Unexpected discovery: The new boutique guesthouses in Ban Phan Luang (across the bamboo bridge) offer stunning river views for half the price of similar quality places in the old town. The 5-minute walk across the bamboo bridge (6,000 LAK toll) deters many tourists, meaning quieter surroundings.

Money Matters in Laos

Currency and Payments in 2025

The financial landscape in Laos has changed significantly:

  • Official currency: Lao Kip (LAK)
  • Exchange rate (2025): Approximately 11,000 LAK = 1 USD
  • Thai Baht and US Dollars still widely accepted in tourist areas
  • ATMs now common in cities and tourist towns (withdrawal limits typically 1,000,000-2,000,000 LAK)
  • ATM fees range from 20,000-40,000 LAK per transaction

Digital Payments Revolution

One of the biggest changes since my first visit is the widespread adoption of digital payments:

  • QR code payments: BCEL One, LDB OnePay, and U-Money apps now widely accepted in urban areas
  • International cards: Visa/Mastercard acceptance has improved but still limited to higher-end establishments
  • Chinese payment systems: WeChat Pay and Alipay increasingly common due to Chinese tourism influence

My digital payment mistake: I arrived in 2024 ready to use my cards everywhere, only to discover that many places advertising “We Accept Cards” actually meant local QR payment apps, not international cards! I now maintain a balance of cash and digital options.

My Top 3 Money-Saving Strategies

  1. Strategic ATM usage: I withdraw the maximum amount each time to minimize per-transaction fees. BCEL and Lao Development Bank ATMs typically charge the lowest fees.
  2. Currency exchange timing: Exchange rates at the Lao-Thai border crossings are consistently better than at the airport. During my last trip, I saved about 3% by waiting to exchange money at the Friendship Bridge rather than at Wattay Airport.
  3. Dual currency approach: I keep daily spending money in kip but pay for accommodation in USD or baht when permitted (these transactions often come with better rates than converting to kip first).

“Always count your kip carefully after exchanges – not because vendors are dishonest, but because with exchange rates creating bundles of hundreds of thousands of kip, even honest mistakes happen frequently.”

Essential Lao Phrases for Travelers

Learning just a few phrases of Lao has consistently been my secret weapon for better experiences, fairer prices, and making genuine connections. The effort is always appreciated!

English Lao Phrase Pronunciation
Hello ສະບາຍດີ sa-bai-dee
Thank you ຂອບໃຈ khop-jai
Yes/No ແມ່ນ/ບໍ່ maen/baw
How much? ລາຄາເທົ່າໃດ laka tao dai
Too expensive ແພງໂພດ paeng pote
Delicious ແຊບ sep
Cheers! ໂດຍ doi
Where is the bathroom? ຫ້ອງນ້ຳຢູ່ໃສ hong nam yu sai

Cultural tip: When I first started using “sep” (delicious) with enthusiasm while eating at local restaurants, I noticed an immediate change in how I was treated. Showing genuine appreciation for Lao food opens many doors!

Food and Drink: Beyond Laap and BeerLao

Lao cuisine remains one of the most underrated in Southeast Asia. Here’s what to try beyond the famous dishes:

Must-Try Regional Specialties

  • Khao piak sen (ເຂົ້າປຽກເສັ້ນ): Fresh rice noodle soup that became my breakfast obsession – look for it at morning markets (15,000-25,000 LAK)
  • Ping pa (ປີ້ງປາ): Fish grilled in banana leaf with herbs, spectacular along the Mekong (40,000-60,000 LAK)
  • Or lam (ເອາະຫຼາມ): Luang Prabang stew with wood ear mushrooms and eggplant (30,000-50,000 LAK)
  • Khao jee pâté (ເຂົ້າຈີ່ປາເຕ): Lao-French fusion baguette sandwiches (15,000-25,000 LAK)
  • Nam khao (ແໜມເຂົ້າ): Crispy rice salad with fermented pork that changed my perception of texture (35,000-45,000 LAK)

Regional specialty tip: During my travels through southern Laos, I discovered that Pakse has its own unique coffee culture with cafés serving locally grown Bolaven Plateau beans. Try the “café lao” brewing method with condensed milk at Sinouk Coffee (15,000 LAK) for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

Where the Locals Eat

Skip the tourist restaurants and head to these authentic spots:

Vientiane

  • Namphou Coffee: Near Nam Phu fountain, perfect for people-watching and authentic Lao coffee
  • Ban Anou Night Market: Local street food paradise with minimal tourist markup
  • Phimphone Market food stalls: Where office workers grab lunch – follow the crowds!

Luang Prabang

  • Morning Market: For khao soi at dawn with the locals
  • Phosi Market food court: Where you’ll be the only foreigner, with incredible khao piak sen
  • Riverside restaurants past Wat Xieng Thong: Better prices than the main street, same river views

My favorite hidden gem: In Vientiane, there’s a nameless soup shop on Rue Setthathirath near Wat Inpeng that serves the best khao piak I’ve ever had for just 20,000 LAK. Look for blue plastic chairs and locals hunched over steaming bowls around 7-9am.

Cultural Do’s and Don’ts

Understanding Lao cultural norms has saved me from countless embarrassing moments:

Essential Etiquette

  • Head and feet awareness: The head is sacred, feet are considered dirty. Never touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or religious objects.
  • Temple etiquette: Cover shoulders and knees; remove shoes before entering buildings; women should not touch monks.
  • Greeting with “nop”: The prayer-like hand gesture with a slight bow is used for greetings and thanks.
  • Volume control: Loud voices or public arguments cause loss of face – Lao culture values calm communication.

My Most Embarrassing Cultural Mistakes

  1. The temple shorts incident: During my first visit, I wore shorts that seemed modest but were still above the knee. I was politely turned away from Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang and had to rent a sarong. Now I always pack lightweight pants even in hot weather.
  2. The monks’ breakfast error: I enthusiastically photographed the morning alms ceremony in Luang Prabang using flash before sunrise. An elder rightfully scolded me for disrupting this sacred ritual. Always observe respectfully from a distance without flash.
  3. The shoe situation: I absentmindedly walked into a local home near Pakse without removing my shoes. The family was too polite to say anything, but I noticed their discomfort immediately. Now I automatically scan for shoes at entrances as a cue.
  4. The direct rejection: When offered food I wasn’t sure about, I directly said “no” instead of politely accepting even a small amount. This is considered rude in Lao culture where food sharing is deeply important. Better to accept a taste and compliment it.

“The true beauty of Laos isn’t just in its landscapes but in its gentle approach to life. The concept of ‘bor pen nyang’ (never mind, it’s okay) isn’t just a phrase – it’s a philosophy that taught me to let go of small frustrations and embrace the unpredictable flow of travel.”

Sustainable and Responsible Travel Tips

Laos faces significant environmental and cultural challenges from tourism. Here’s how to minimize your impact while maximizing your positive contribution:

Environmental Consciousness

  • Plastic reduction: Bring a reusable water bottle with filter (I use a Grayl purifier) and refill at restaurants or guesthouses. Most places now allow this if asked politely.
  • Reef-safe sunscreen: When visiting the 4000 Islands or waterfall swimming spots, use only reef-safe sunscreen to protect fragile aquatic ecosystems.
  • Transportation choices: The new railway is not only convenient but has a significantly lower carbon footprint than flights or private vehicles between northern destinations.

Money-saving eco tip: My refillable water bottle saved me approximately 25,000 LAK daily on bottled water while preventing dozens of plastic bottles from entering Laos’ limited waste management system.

Ethical Animal Tourism

Laos has made progress but still has issues with wildlife exploitation:

  • Elephant experiences: Support only observation-based sanctuaries like Elephant Conservation Center near Sayaboury – never ride elephants or watch them perform tricks
  • Wildlife products: Avoid all souvenirs made from wildlife parts (including insects in resin, which often deplete wild populations)
  • Photo opportunities: Decline photos with captive wildlife in urban areas (often these animals are drugged or mistreated)

Supporting Local Communities

One of my favorite aspects of Laos is how easy it is to ensure your money benefits local people:

  • Community-based tourism: Villages like Ban Na in Luang Namtha and Kong Lor in Khammouane province offer homestays where your money directly supports families
  • Social enterprises: Restaurants like Khaiphaen in Luang Prabang and Makphet in Vientiane train disadvantaged youth
  • Artisan crafts: Purchase directly from craftspeople at workshops rather than tourist markets (better quality and fairer prices)

Unexpected discovery: During my visit to Phonsavan, I stayed at a guesthouse that funds UXO (unexploded ordnance) clearance programs. Laos remains the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, and supporting these initiatives helps heal this ongoing wound.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Gems

While Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vang Vieng remain Laos’ tourism trinity, my most memorable experiences have come from venturing further afield:

Northern Treasures

  • Nong Khiaw: Dramatic limestone karsts with fewer crowds than Vang Vieng and excellent hiking to viewpoints
  • Muang Ngoi: Accessible only by boat, this riverside village offers a glimpse of traditional Lao life largely unchanged by tourism
  • Phongsali Province: Home to diverse ethnic groups and stunning mountain trekking opportunities

Personal experience: Hiking up to Nong Khiaw’s viewpoint for sunrise was initially painful (400+ steep steps), but watching the mist roll through the karst mountains as the Ou River valley slowly illuminated was a spiritual experience that rivaled anything in Luang Prabang – with just four other travelers instead of hundreds.

Central and Southern Discoveries

  • Kong Lor Cave: A 7km underground river journey through a karst mountain that left me speechless
  • Tad Lo Waterfalls: On the Bolaven Plateau, less visited than the southern 4000 Islands but equally beautiful
  • Champasak: Pre-Angkorian ruins of Wat Phou without the crowds of Siem Reap

Hidden gem tip: When visiting Kong Lor Cave, stay in Ban Kong Lor village rather than the nearby tourism hub of Ban Na Hin. The homestay experience with a local family cost me just 100,000 LAK per night including dinner and breakfast, and my hosts arranged a private early morning cave tour before the day-trippers arrived.

Safety and Health Considerations

Laos is generally a safe destination, but some precautions remain important:

Health Preparations

  • Vaccinations: Routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid; Japanese Encephalitis for rural stays
  • Malaria: Risk exists in rural areas, particularly southern provinces; preventive medication recommended for extended rural travel
  • Water safety: Stick to bottled/purified water; ice in established restaurants is generally safe in cities
  • Hospitals: Quality facilities exist in Vientiane (Alliance International and Settathirath Hospital); elsewhere medical care is basic

Personal health story: During my second visit, I developed severe food poisoning after eating uncooked vegetables in a remote village. I now carry prescription antibiotics (from my travel doctor) and activated charcoal, which saved a later trip when symptoms recurred.

Safety Concerns

  • UXO (Unexploded Ordnance): Never venture off marked paths in rural areas, especially in eastern provinces along the Vietnam border
  • Road safety: The biggest risk in Laos – avoid night travel, check vehicle conditions, and consider the train instead of overnight buses when possible
  • Petty crime: Generally low but increasing in tourist areas; use hotel safes and be cautious with valuables
  • Scams: Less common than neighboring countries but increasing at border crossings and with tuk-tuk pricing

Safety tip: I’ve found that photographing the license plate of any taxi or tuk-tuk before getting in (obviously) creates instant accountability and fair pricing. This simple action has saved me from numerous overcharging attempts.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Laos

After five visits and countless adventures throughout this captivating country, I’ve distilled my recommendations into a practical action plan for your Laos journey:

  1. Plan your timing strategically: Aim for November-February for ideal weather, but consider shoulder seasons (October or March) for better deals and fewer tourists. Book accommodations at least 30 days in advance for high season visits.
  2. Create a realistic itinerary: Laos deserves slow travel – allow 3-4 days minimum for major destinations and don’t try to see everything. My recommended two-week first-timer route: Vientiane (2 days) → Vang Vieng (3 days) → Luang Prabang (4 days) → Nong Khiaw (3 days) → Luang Prabang (1 day) → Vientiane (1 day).
  3. Prepare financially: Bring multiple money options (cash USD/Baht + at least two cards); download BCEL One or U-Money apps; budget 300,000-500,000 LAK daily for mid-range travel (more for premium experiences, less for budget travel).
  4. Pack thoughtfully: Modest clothing for temples; basic medical supplies; reusable water bottle; offline maps; power bank; small gifts from your home country for homestay hosts.
  5. Embrace the Lao pace: Perhaps the most important step – recalibrate your expectations to “Lao time.” Services may be slower than you’re used to, plans may need adjustment, and transportation doesn’t always run on schedule. The sooner you embrace this reality, the more you’ll enjoy your journey.

Laos has transformed me as a traveler. It’s taught me patience when faced with the unexpected, gratitude for simple moments of connection across language barriers, and perspective on what truly constitutes wealth and happiness. In our hyperconnected, achievement-oriented world, Laos remains a gentle reminder that sometimes the greatest luxury is simply slowing down.

“Bor pen nyang” – it’s no problem. Three simple words that capture the essence of Laos and the mindset that will help you fall in love with this extraordinary country.

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling in Laos

Is Laos safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Laos is generally very safe for solo travelers, including women. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. The main concerns are petty theft in tourist areas, transportation safety (roads can be hazardous), and health issues. I’ve traveled solo in Laos multiple times and felt safer than in many Western cities. That said, take normal precautions: avoid isolated areas after dark, secure valuables, and trust your instincts.

What’s the best way to get a visa for Laos in 2025?

For most travelers, the e-visa system introduced in 2023 and fully operational in 2025 is now the most convenient option. Apply through the official portal at least 7 days before travel. The visa-on-arrival system remains available at Wattay International Airport and major border crossings for those who prefer that option or are traveling on short notice.

How much money should I budget per day in Laos?

Daily budgets vary significantly based on travel style:

  • Budget travel: 200,000-300,000 LAK (~18-27 USD) for guesthouses, local food, and public transportation
  • Mid-range travel: 400,000-600,000 LAK (~36-55 USD) for comfortable hotels, better restaurants, and some activities
  • Luxury travel: 800,000+ LAK (~73+ USD) for boutique accommodations, fine dining, and premium experiences

I typically travel in the mid-range category and average about 500,000 LAK daily, including all accommodations, food, transportation, and activities.

Is the internet reliable in Laos?

Internet access has improved dramatically in recent years. Major towns and cities have reliable 4G coverage, and most accommodations offer WiFi. However, speeds remain slower than what you might be accustomed to in developed countries. Remote areas still have limited or no connectivity. I recommend purchasing a local SIM card (Unitel or LaoTel) for around 50,000 LAK with data packages starting at 20,000 LAK for basic plans.

What should I do if I get sick in Laos?

For minor illnesses, pharmacies in major towns can provide basic medications. For more serious conditions, Vientiane has international-standard medical facilities (Alliance International and Settathirath Hospitals). In other areas, medical care is basic. I strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage. In my experience, having a travel medical kit with antibiotics (prescribed before your trip), anti-diarrheal medication, and oral rehydration salts has been invaluable.

Is it worth visiting Laos during the rainy season?

The rainy season (May-September) has distinct advantages and challenges. Benefits include lush landscapes, photogenic waterfalls at peak flow, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Disadvantages include possible transportation disruptions, muddy trekking conditions, and afternoon downpours. In my experience, early rainy season (May-June) offers a good balance – the countryside is green, but the heaviest rains haven’t yet arrived. Just build flexibility into your itinerary and have indoor alternatives planned.

How should I handle the language barrier?

English proficiency varies widely in Laos. In tourist areas and higher-end establishments, basic English communication is usually possible. In rural areas, communication will rely more on gestures and simple phrases. I’ve found that learning a few basic Lao phrases makes a tremendous difference in how you’re received. The Google Translate app with Lao language downloaded for offline use has saved me countless times, especially when showing written Lao script to locals.

What’s the best souvenir to bring home from Laos?

Textile arts represent Laos’ most distinctive souvenirs. Hand-woven silk and cotton pieces from different ethnic groups showcase incredible craftsmanship. The Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center in Luang Prabang offers ethically-sourced textiles with information about the patterns and makers. Coffee from the Bolaven Plateau, handmade paper products, and traditional silver jewelry are also excellent choices. I personally collect handwoven scarves from different regions, each with distinctive patterns that tell cultural stories.

References and Further Reading