Laos is a country in Southeast Asia surrounded by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar and China. Unlike many of its neighbors, Laos has no coastline and is the only completely landlocked nation in the region. Although Laos is one of the least known countries in Southeast Asia, it offers a rich culture, breathtaking nature, and an interesting history that many travelers have yet to know. Time for a know-it-all!
Did you know....
- The city of Luang Prabang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site? Located at the confluence of the Mekong and Khan rivers, the city is known for its well-preserved French colonial buildings, beautiful temples and traditional wooden houses.
- Laos has a unique form of Buddhism that incorporates animistic and spiritual traditions? The belief in spirits, or phi, is deeply rooted and many Laotians hold ceremonies to respect and protect these spirits.
- The archaeological site "The Plain of Jars" which is full of thousands of ancient stone jars still holds many mysteries? The origin and function of these jars still remain unknown, despite a lot of archaeological research.
- Laos has a unique traditional cuisine? The national pride is "larb," a salad with minced meat or fish seasoned with lime, fish sauce and other spices.
- The Mekong, which flows through several Southeast Asian countries, plays a vital role in Laos? It forms the border with Thailand and provides Laotians with water, fish and transportation options. The Mekong is also crucial to Laos' energy supply: the country is investing in hydropower plants and is sometimes even called the "battery of Southeast Asia" because of its potential to export power to neighboring countries.
