Between tradition and heritage
The kator. A mixture of volleyball and football, the kator (also called sepak takraw in Thailand) is played with a wicker or rigid plastic ball 12 cm in diameter. There are two teams of three players on each side of the net. Players from the same team pass to each other before sending the ball across a volleyball net, although the net is slightly lower. The basic rule is to keep the ball in the air without ever using arms and hands. The game is generally pleasant and always spectacular. There are several variations of the game and the sport is also played in the rest of the region, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia.
Muay Lao. As in neighbouring countries, Laos has its own style of boxing which is very similar to Thai and Cambodian boxing. Fists, knees, elbows (except for amateurs and children) and feet are used. This ancient martial art was introduced into the Laotian culture during the domination of the Angkor empire and the Khmer martial arts.
Football. It is, as everywhere on the planet, very popular in Laos. However, given the lack of results from the Laotian national team at international level, it is often Japanese or Korean shirts that are seen on children's backs. Otherwise, as in all Asian countries, it is the English league matches that are the most watched.
Petanque. Yes, you've read correctly, petanque is one of the favourite activities of Laotians! You will quickly notice the fervour of the population for this activity, especially in Luang Prabang (more than fifty courts) or in Vientiane. There are many bowling fields, even in remote villages. Retirees often meet in the afternoon, in the shade of a tree in the parks. The French obviously bequeathed this "sport" during the protectorate and Laos is now one of the most award-winning Asian countries.
Bowling and billiards. Like petanque, bowling is a leisure activity that Laotians love. Cities such as Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Savannakhet are home to one or more bowling alleys. More than just a game, bowling is above all an opportunity to get together with friends and have a good time. Bowling alleys are generally open until midnight and offer a bar and a restaurant. You will also very often find a billiard table in bars around the country
Cock fights. Although officially forbidden by law, cockfighting is still very popular, especially in the north towards Luang Prabang and Nong Khiaw. These fights are often very violent and we don't like them very much.
Assault on nature
Laos is a small country that lends itself perfectly to hiking and trekking, particularly in the northern provinces (around Houay and Luang Namtha, for example) and in the south, on the Boloven plateau. The country boasts some twenty National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (ZNCB in French, NBCA in English). Although not strictly speaking national parks, these spots promote ecotourism and encourage visitors to help preserve the cultural heritage of minorities in particular. A very trendy way to travel in recent years. And many agencies organize treks and hikes, from a few hours to several days, in these preserved and authentic areas.
Finally, you can also take advantage of the immense sugar loaf mountains, particularly in Vang Vieng, for mountain biking, climbing, abseiling or zip-lining. Agencies offering one-day or multi-day outdoor excursions can be found all over the country.
On the water too, there is plenty to do
The Mekong River and its tributaries offer different possibilities of cruises to discover the small villages here and there in the jungle. In the south of the country, you can also take a boat trip to see the Irrawaddy dolphins, an endangered and protected species. Along with Myanmar, this is the only place in the world where these mammals can still be seen. The more sporty can also climb a kayak or try rafting in the rapids. Finally, another very popular activity, tubing consists in going down the rivers sitting in a big inflatable buoy.
By motorcycle or bicycle on the byways
Many visitors discover the country by motorcycle. Mind you, the roads are sometimes in poor condition, especially during the rainy season (so avoid them at this time of year), but it's nevertheless very easy to get around and find your way around on a motorcycle. There is little or no traffic, and distances are not too long. But be careful on the road, and don't forget to wear a helmet!
Cycling is another very practical means of transport, and one that is gradually becoming very popular with tourists. In most tourist towns, you can rent one for the day and explore the city and its surroundings. The bravest will tackle the mountain roads in the north.
Golf, notice to the amateurs
The fans of the small white ball and puttswill be delighted to know that there are some very nice golf courses in Laos, especially in Luang Prabang at the Luang Prabang Golf Club. A course of choice that offers exceptional views of the Mekong River, with its hilly relief and small mountains. One can also play in Vientiane, at Lake View Golf Club or Long Vien Golf Club, and near the Phou Khao Khouay National Park at Dansavanh Nam Ngum Resort Golf & Casino in particular.
Relaxation in the sauna
Finally, to recover, you can imitate the Laotians, who greatly appreciate the herbal sauna. They prefer to go at the end of the day. Red Cross establishments have a good reputation and are present in several towns. A massage is usually given after the sauna, for total relaxation of the body (and mind). From head to toe, traditional Lao massage is invigorating, but not brutal. It involves exerting fairly strong pressure, in relation to acupuncture points, to revive muscular energy.
