Laos

Laos, or the Lao People's Democratic Republic, remains one of the least developed and most enigmatic countries in Southeast Asia. Landlocked and squeezed in between Burma, China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand, the history of Laos is one of feuding, civil war, occupation and colonisation. The Khmers, the Siamese and the Vietnamese all had a go over the centuries until the French staked their claim in 1893 only granting independence in 1949 after-which a veil of communist secrecy fell over Laos.

Laos today is shedding this veil, donning instead a shroud of mystery. It is one of Southeast Asia’s best kept secrets where a journey down the Mekong River is utterly timeless. Jungle-clad rock karsts, the Plain of Jars, the Mekong River and 4000 Islands contribute to the allure as do the warm, welcoming and untainted people of Laos. Part of French Indochina, faded French Colonial Villas abound while baguettes, strong coffee and French haut cuisine are fresh and scrumptious.

From small Independent Luxury Tours of Laos to Retreats & Weekend Getaways in Vientiane, Luang Prabang and the far less travelled reaches of Northern and Southern Laos, incorporate Laos and the Mekong River into your Southeast Asia Trip Plan for unique authenticity. Readjust your watch or leave it at home; mesmerised by the Mekong River, time is inconsequential in laid-back Laos.