Laos

As per the international standards, Lao Kip is not a stable currency. It cannot be converted to any other foreign currency outside Laos. Visitors can get their currency exchanged at banks in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. One can get US dollars, Canadian dollars, and Australian Dollar, Thai Baht, Japanese Yen, Euros and UK Pounds in these banks. ATMs are present in big numbers in Vientiane only, especially around Th Setthathriat. Many major hotels might have on-site ATM too.Currently, the withdrawal limit is around LAK 1,000,000 i.e. approximately GBP 65, but one has to pay very high charges. Traveller's cheques are also accepted in exchange for Kip in most of the banks in Lao.

Nightlife in Laos is usually not that active and quite laidback. Nightclubs and bar are closed maximum by 11:30 pm as per legal rules. Vientiane is not at par with any of its other Asian capital city with Beer Lao and a bewitching sunset firefly display as its only options for early nighters. Future Nightclub and Highwayman are two major nightclubs in the city, both situated close to the airport and frequently open much late than allowed. Another option is the French Cultural Centre on Th Lan Xang where movies are shown, and music performances are held. Most bars are nestled along the river stay open until 11:00 pm offeringa plethora of classic rock, cocktails and cheap beer. The scene is similar in all the cities including Luang Prabang where one will find first openly gay bar. Streets clear out early in Laos with guesthouse bolted doors accordingly.

Laos is known for its exquisite handicrafts produced locally in the country. The markets of Vientiane and Luang Prabang are worth visiting for their exclusive products such as silk, cotton fabrics, hill tribe embroideries, woodcarvings, garments, bags, wall hangings pottery and silver jewellery. Also, look out for local art, antiques and paper products in the markets. As souvenirs, one can buy Lao sarongs hill tribe bags. While in Vientiane, try out morning market, a popular place frequented by tourists along with weaving district of Ban Nong Bouathong.

Laos is a country with rich culture and great respect for their religion. Thus, their main festivals revolve around them. Lao people end to celebrate Buddhist festivals throughout the year with a great fervour usually marked by fireworks, floral offerings and processions of monks. The month of FebruaryÊwitness Magha Puja, Tet and the Chinese New Year, in April and May there are Pi Ma, the Lunar New Year and Visakha Bu- Saa festivals whereas the most vibrant and scenic festival of Laos is held in December, That LuangÊFestival .In this festival, monks come together to receive offerings of alms and flowers. The festivals and celebration are a perfect to get a glimpse of local Lao culture.

Laos needs a huge adjustment owing to its different atmosphere, food and climate. It is advised to avoid buying medicine from pharmacies, as there are many phony and counterfeit drugs in the market and better carry a first aid kit. Tap water is not safe for drinking or brushing teeth therefore, buy packaged water for such uses. It is recommended to get vaccination for Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and B, Malaria, Typhoid and sometimes Rabies as well. Also, avoid swimming in fresh water.

Citizens of Laos are mostly friendly and welcoming people but with some unspoken rules that one needs to take care. ÊAvoid wearing too much-exposing clothes in public and avoid a public display of affection. ÊShouting in public is considered rude and thus keep your volume down and avoid violence. ÊIn Laotian culture, the head is considered very private thus avoid touching it and never point your feet towards anyone or raise them beyond ground level as they are considered as low.'Never disrespect anyone, particularly elders, and show respect to religious shrines, and Buddhists scripture and idols. ÊMake sure to remove shoes before entering the place of worship and to wear covered clothes (avoid shorts or tank tops). ÊNever, turn your back to the idol of Buddha irrespective of its size. ÊLastly, women are not allowed to touch monks, and it considered very disrespectful. Tipping is not expected in most places in Laos but always appreciated, especially by tourists. 10% tip is considered quite generous.

• Remove shoes before entering any religious place.
• Take care of your belongings as street crimes and bag snatching is prevalent in cities and town.
• Be careful while walking on roadsides as some roads are in poor condition and traffic rules are not very well implemented.
• It is a legal compulsion for tourists to carry an ID proof or passport, in the absence of which a heavy fine is levied.
• Some roadside food outlets selling 'happy pizzas' or 'special shakes' might contain an unknown substance or opium, especially in major tourist places. Drugs are illegal in Laos, and you might end up paying a heavy fine.
• Make sure to hone up your bargaining skills are it will be useful almost everywhere.
• Becareful of the hotel and rental vehicle owners scamming you over petty issues. Sometimes the local police are also on it as well.

In Laos, the staple ingredients of their food is boiled or steamed sticky rice, which is eaten witha variety of vegetables, meats, fish, poultry with a range of spices and flavours. One can also see the influence of Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cooking on Lao food through wideÊuse of chilli, fish sauce, soy and Asian herbs like lemongrass, ginger, galangal and Asian basil. Other ingredients used for flavouring include garlic, tamarind, sugar and lime juice. Native sausages, noodles and fresh salad are other main staple in Laoss food. Accompanying food is often beer, water or fruit juice. Green tea is usually served free in most restaurants while Beer Lao is favourite among local. A strong French influence is also visible in larger towns with baguette sandwiches, pates, coffee and salads.

There are several flights options for visiting Laos from India such as Air India, Thai Airways, Jet Airways, Bangkok Airways, Shandong Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways. There is no direct flight to Laos; however, one can travel to the country from various India cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Kolkata.