Laos

An Introduction to Laos

The land locked south east Asian country of Laos has experienced a turbulent history over the latter part of the 20th century but is now relatively stable. While still an underdeveloped communist state, it began opening its economy to private enterprise in 1988, is experiencing good economic growth and lifting more and more of its 6 million odd people out of poverty.

Laos traces its origins to the 14th century Lao kingdom of Lan Xang, which enjoyed influence over the current territory of Laos and some of what is now Thailand and Cambodia for around 300 years. Through the 18th century and into late 19th century, it became overshadowed and heavily influenced by Siam (Thailand) before becoming a part of French Indochina. It gained its independence from France in 1949 but was destabilised throughout the years of the Vietnam war during which it was used by North Vietnamese forces and very heavily bombed by the Unites States. Unexploded ordinance remains a major problem to this day. The North Vietnamese backed Communist Pathet Lao took control in 1975 and have remained in power since.

In recent years Laos has become increasingly popular with tourists attracted mostly to its still pristine environment and unspoilt culture.

That's not to say that it's busy or crowded. Even the capital of Vientiane is a very laid back and peaceful place in comparison with most cities in Asia. Major drawcards include the Plain of Jars, the heavily forested mountains in the north of the country, the backpacker friendly Vang Vieng and Si Phan Don in the south on the Mekong River.

The climate is tropical and from March to May temperatures can reach the high 30s celsius however during the dry season it can get quite cool, particularly in December / January at higher elevations.

Vientiane's Wattay International Airport is regularly serviced by flights from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Hanoi, Bangkok and other centres. You can also enter Laos by land from Thailand and Vietnam.