Language
The official language of Laos is Lao, as spoken and written in Vientiane. Although many of the ethnic groups in Laos have their own language, usually they can speak Lao as well. It is very similar to Thai, which is easily understood in Laos. English and French are understood only in tourist areas. In general it is the older generation speaking French, with English becoming more and more popular among young people.

A Lao dictionary or phrase book would be very useful. The Lao people will very much appreciate your efforts to address them in Lao language. The Lao language is written in a Thai-Khmer script. It is a tonal language, which means that words have a different meaning depending on the tone. This makes the language quite difficult to learn for westerners.

Click here for some useful Lao phrases.
Click here for some useful Lao words and phrases.


Manner
When visiting Laos, there are some general rules of conduct that you should follow. Don't touch any persons head, including children. The head is the most sacred part of the body. The feet however are less sacred. Therefore you should never move objects with your feet, or point at anything using your feet. When sitting down, don't show the bottom of your feet to Lao people. When sitting in a temple, point them away from the main altar or main Buddha image.

When visiting a temple, the arms and legs should be fully covered. Take off your shoes before entering a temple or any room that contains a Buddha image. Avoid visiting the temple around 11:00, because then the monks usually are taking their morning meal. Monks are not allowed to touch a woman, so women should not attempt to shake hands with a monk, or even to hand over something to him directly. When talking to a monk, always keep your head lower than the monk's head.

Use common sense when taking photographs. If you ask for permission, people usually will have no objections. Don't use your camera in sensitive places like airports or military areas.

As elsewhere in southeast Asia, the traditional way of greeting is to put your hands together in front of your chest, prayer-like, and then bow your head slightly. Shaking hands is becoming more common though, especially in cities.


Climate
In general, the best time for visiting Laos, is during the cool dry season (November to February). During this period, you might need a jacket in the night and early morning. This is followed by the hot dry season, with temperatures going up to 38 Celsius (March and April). The rainy season may last from May to October, when travelling can become very hard. Many more climate and weather facts can be found on our weather in Laos page.

Time
Laos is:
- 7 hours ahead of GMT
- 12 hours ahead of Canada Eastern Time
- 15 hours ahead of Canada Pacific Time
- 12 hours ahead of US Eastern Time
- 15 hours ahead of US Pacific Time
- 3 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time
- 5 hours behind New Zealand

This clock shows the current time in Laos.


Local Transport
Bus
There is a limited bus service in Vientiane. In other parts of the country there are hardly any city buses.
Tuk-tuk
Named after the typical sound of its two-tact engine, the tuk-tuk is a three-wheeled motorcycle taking 2 or 3 passengers in the back. They are cheap and available in most towns.
Samlor
The name means 'two rows', it is a truck with two rows of seats in the back, which can take up to 8 passengers. Usually they run on set routes.
Boat
The rivers of Laos are its highways. Many boats navigate the Mekong and other rivers. Cargo boats take passengers too. Agree on a price before boarding.
Rent-a-car
Travel agents can arrange your own vehicle, usually with a driver.
Rental bicycle
A good way to explore the towns and around. Bicycles can be rented at many guesthouses and shops for about 5000 kip per day. Check the quality of your bike before renting.

Money
The currency in Laos in the Lao Kip. Check out our currency page for all information about the Lao Kip and its exchange rates.

Accommodation
Check out our accommodation page for all information about hotels and guesthouses in Laos.