Those in the know reckon that Laos may be the next big thing!

The entry point for international flights is Vientiane International Airport which serves the capital.

There are no direct flights from Australia into Laos. Thai (via Bangkok ) offer the most popular indirect service or many travellers cross overland from Thailand.

The currency used is the Loa Kip (Approximately 7,833 Lao Kip for 1 Australian Dollar)

Main tourist highlights:

Northen Laos’ main highlights are the hill tribe areas around Luang Namtha, this area is also noted for it’s ecotourism and trekking opportunities. Luang Prabang is the cultural heartland of Laos and, arguably, one of Asia's most serenely beautiful cities. It’s famous for its historic temples and beautiful setting surrounded by mountains. The temples of Luang Prabang are too numerous to mention, suffice to say that some of Asia's most spectacularly beautiful temples can be found here. In 1995 it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Phonsavan is the base to explore the Plain of Jars where you will see thousands of gigantic urns spread across a vast area. Vang Vieng is another place to stop off, with it’s nearby caves and river bank setting.

Vientiane is a very laid back capital city with friendly people and great charm, it has a few places of interest, the main one being  Pha That Luang (Great Sacred Reliquary or Great Stupa): built between the 11th and 13th centuries AD, it is the most important national monument in Laos, functioning as a dual symbol of the Buddhist religion and the Lao nation.

In the South Savannakhet on the Mekong is a great place to break your journey on the way to Pakse. Pakse is the stopping off point for trips down to Si Phan Don ( Four Thousand Islands). This area of the Mekong is a great place to realx on the banks of the Mekong. There are a number of waterfalls to visit as well as the chance to see rare pink river dolphins. Between Si Phan Don and Pakse you can also visit the impressive ancient ruins at at Phu Champassak.

Australian passport holders may obtain a 60 day visa at Vientiane airport for $30 US. 

Whilst in Laos they can obtain assistance from:

Australian Embassy,

Rue J.Nehru,

Quartier Phone Xay, Vientiane

Telephone: + 856 21 41 3600  

Fax:  +856 21 41 3601

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