A trip to Laos is all about the journey and not the destination. An arduous trip form town to town in a bus on a bumpy dirt road or winding along a slow-moving river, mingling and chatting with local travelers or other backpackers is the real prize of traveling in Laos.
Rugged roads and basic accommodation is ideal for the adventure seekers in cities like Luangnamtha. However, great discount hotels and luxurious resorts in larger, more developed places like Luang Prabang and Vientiane are also available for the less adventurous.
Culturally, Laos is westernizing like many of its neighbors. Mobile phones and western ideals are fast taking over major cities. Growth in tourism, due to development of infrastructure, rise of hotels and accommodations of international standards, plus less political conflicts, proved to be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it brings in the much needed foreign currencies, opportunities and livelihood. On the other, it promises to exploit the unspoiled waterways and forests of Laos.
Traditional Laotian villages, minority groups and even the “Lao life style” risk becoming show pieces for foreign travelers. The Laotian government and the UN are trying to work out a less devastating process of development for Laos. Tourists to Laos are also encouraged to play their part in preservation of the Laos identity. To access our selected discount hotels in Laos, please select your preferred destination from the list.