Wedged between a number of larger neighbouring countries, Laos is often overlooked in favour of tourism giants such as Thailand and Vietnam. But these travellers are missing out on an extraordinarily scenic and culturally rich destination. Laos boasts a reputation as the least visited, least Westernised, and most untouched of all Indochinese nations. Only time will tell how long this will last, but while it does, visitors who choose to explore this nation’s remote areas will be richly rewarded. Laos’ primary drawcard is undoubtedly the mighty Mekong River which traverses the length of the country and is considered the second most biodiverse river in the world. In the north, the landscape is characterised by little-explored jungle-clad mountainous areas where visitors can witness the intriguing cultures of the various hill tribes that populate this region. Travellers on the hunt for cultural interest should head for the bustling capital of Vientiane, with its innumerable temples and Buddhist monuments. It is this variety of exotic wildlife, remote wilderness and remarkable cultural treasures that make Laos a truly unique and unforgettable holiday destination.
Phonsavan serves as the gateway to one of Laos’s most mysterious and compelling archaeological wonders: the Plain of Jars. Spread across hundreds of square kilometres of rolling hills, this vast landscape is dotted with thousands of ancient stone jars—some towering up to three metres high—believed to be at least 1,500 years old. Their true purpose remains an enigma: scholars have suggested funerary urns or burial chambers, while local folklore imagines them as places where lovers sealed their union. The town of Phonsavan itself carries an old-world atmosphere, shaped largely by architecture built in the mid-1970s following the end of the Vietnam War. A visit to the area’s two UXO information centres provides a thought-provoking and sobering glimpse into the region’s wartime history, adding depth and context to a stay in this quietly intriguing corner of Laos.
Surrounded by mist-draped limestone karsts, tranquil rice paddies, mysterious caves and ancient ruins, Vang Vieng is a vibrant jungle town set amid some of Laos’s most breathtaking scenery. Although the once-infamous river party scene has been reined in by new regulations, the town remains a premier hub for soft adventure—offering cycling, caving, tubing, rafting, kayaking, zip-lining and countless hiking trails through cinematic landscapes. Between excursions, travellers can unwind in the town’s growing collection of boutique hotels and international restaurants, which make it a comfortable base for exploring the region’s natural wonders. Sunset Hill offers one of Vang Vieng’s most striking viewpoints, while the area’s aquamarine lagoons and spring-fed swimming holes invite dreamy, refreshing dips. Combining raw natural beauty with just the right amount of comfort and charm, Vang Vieng continues to captivate visitors seeking adventure framed by extraordinary scenery.
