Coming from a Westernized modern world where everything is planned according to performance, it is both troubling and soothing to discover a country like Laos. The former «Kingdom of the Million Elephants» is a country with a non-chalant charm, living at the pace of yesteryear in the Mekong meanders. Diving in a country that cultivates its mysteries and whose motto could be «live happily, live hidden».
An extraordinary welcome
The Laotian people are quite reserved. But once the relationship of confidence is established, Laotians are more friendly, even taking by hand or arm during a walk, or inviting you home to present their families around a good meal, a cup of tea or a glass of Lao Lao (rice alcohol). Apart from tourist places, the inhabitants rarely approach foreign countries by interest. They show a real curiosity and are eager to practice English or French. In truth, cultural shock does not lie so much in the habits and customs, the costumes of local minorities or culinary traditions, but in character traits that forge the identity of Laos: humility, respect for the other and hospitality.
Traditions and culture
We are also inevitably seduced by the wisdom of a people that has not yet been tempted by the constant desire for novelty and profitability that governs our societies. This trip is a return to sources, an opportunity to savor the benefits of the present. And yet, for some years now, this small country has opened up to the rest of the world and is undergoing real economic growth under pressure from its neighbors: China, Vietnam and Thailand. However, this openness appears to be a reflection of the desire to maintain a balance between modernity and traditions, and to preserve certain values essential to social harmony. The Lao culture consists of the contributions of the 49 officially recognized ethnic groups, whether indigenous (Tai Lao) or distant origin (Sino-Tibetan, Hmong, Austro-Asian). This diversity forms a mosaic of traditions: habitat, food, life, religion and world design. Traditional life seems to be respected in Laos, unlike what is happening among neighbors. Far from presenting a uniform appearance, the Laotian regions have different cultural characteristics, consequences of a tumultuous history, and offer a beautiful artistic and craft diversity.
A Haven of Peace
Laos is the least populated country in South-East Asia. The country is formed mainly by valleys and cultivated plains, where villages live at the rhythm of nature. Unlike other Asian countries, you will never be drowned in a human mass in Laos… except for the New Year in April! Rizières and villages are set in the heart of peaceful nature; between mountains and forests in the north, Mekong plains and Bolovens plateau in the south. In villages, crops depend on seasons and the natural environment provides the inhabitants with the vital necessary: building materials, rice, fruit and vegetables, fishing and game. A few hectares cultivated by family on the edge of a river or on the slopes of a hill, and a temple inhabited by the bonzes are the décor of a rustic life without artifices.
Laos is therefore a haven of peace. Vientiane is surprised by its relative tranquility, which is uncommon for a capital, even though in recent years it has grown at a crazy pace! It seems here that time has stopped. This external calm reflects inner peace. Here, nobody extols his anger, in accordance with the Buddhist tradition. Calm and discretion characterize the country's general atmosphere. What could be interpreted as indifference or laziness in fact corresponds to the deep nature of the Lao people: This is what makes the magic of this country with the beauty of the landscapes of the north or the peace of the Mekong Islands. In fact, Laos is conducive to meditation. It can be taught in the vat (Buddhist temples), by bonzes… but insiders can practice it alone in a hammock on the edge of the Mekong. A real happiness.
Ubiquitous nature and adventure scent
Laos enjoys a subtropical climate and temperatures are pleasant for most of the year, although it is advisable to visit the southern part of the country in winter and the northern region in spring or autumn. In any case, if you are thirsty for nature, Laos is a perfect choice! Most of the forests are natural, although unfortunately! the economic boom organized by the Chinese and Vietnamese has started a systematic process of deforestation… However, few rare specimens are still present in fauna and flora, and wild spaces, once inaccessible, can now be explored through ecotourism programs organized by international ngos. Competent local guides can also make you discover the secrets that the Lao wilderness still conceals. Then a unique scent of adventure just goes through a mountain range by bus (without risking his life). So it is not the exploration grounds that are lacking: forests, mountains, caves and wild rivers… The gorges of Nam or, the waterfalls of Tad Lo or the Mekong Islands are perfect examples. Trekking or rafting, mountain biking or climbing, not forgetting elephant rides, are all outdoor activities to discover the natural riches of Laos. An extraordinary adventure.
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When is it? In Laos, the low tourist season coincides with the rainy season from early April to September. The high tourist season extends from early October to the end of April during the dry period. Even if the dry season has its advantages, leaving the summer (European) can be equally attractive: the landscape is different, from a bright green from the north to the south.
Go there. It takes 1,000 € in high season, 800 € in low season for a Paris-Vientiane flight. There are no direct flights, a stopover will be required in Bangkok, Thailand or Hanoi in Vietnam. Please note, a visa is required.
THAI AIRWAYS INTERNATIONAL - More information on the site
VIETNAM AIRLINES - More information on the site
Useful. To prepare his trip.
EMBASSY OF THE LAO PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC - More information on the site
NATIONAL TOURISM OFFICE - More information on the site
