Practical information about best time of year to go; what to pack; money; visas; language; how to book activities, lodging and transport; suggested itineraries; why all those backpackers in Vietnam, Thailand etc. keep telling you that “you MUST go to Laos”.

And more.

Laos’ magnificent medieval capital of Luang Prabang - if you only go one place in Laos, I would go here.

Laos’ party & adrenaline capital of Vang Vieng with stunning scenery. Definitely go either here or to much quieter Nong Khiaw up north.

And the modern capital of Vientiane. Backpackers who want action-packed days usually dislike it, but some others find it enchanting. Read on for two opinions about it.

Living in a treehouse and ziplining through the jungle on the Gibbon Experience.

Trekking amongst the hill tribes through some of Laos’ last old-growth jungle near Luang Namtha.

The stunning karst scenery of Nong Khiaw, and idyllic, roadless Muang Ngoi. Definitely go either here or to Vang Vieng.

And more.

The coffee plantations, jungle waterfalls and rolling hills of the Bolaven Motorcycle Loop

The majestic caves and towering karst scenery of the Thakhek Motorcycle loop

Wat Phu Champasak, a beautiful mini-Angkor near Pakse that is vastly less crowded than Angkor itself

And the ultimate chill-out of the 4,000 Islands