Elephant Festival Set to Return to Xayabouly in February
XAYABOULY, LAOS — Xayabouly province is preparing to host its annual Elephant Festival next month, with around 50 elephants expected to take part in the week-long event celebrating Laos’ long-standing relationship with its national animal. The festival will be held in Xayabouly district from February 9 to 16, bringing together elephant handlers, local communities, and
Masked Ghost Festival to Return to Pak Lai in Early 2026
PAK LAI, LAOS — The Phi Ta Khon Festival, also known as the Masked Ghost Festival, is scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 2, 2026, in Paklai district, offering residents and visitors a vivid display of local tradition at the start of the year. The festival, held annually in parts of Xayabouly
Things I Wish My Friends Knew Before Visiting Laos
I always love when friends tell me they are coming to Laos. It is a beautiful country, warm in both climate and people, and full of moments that stay with you long after you leave. But Laos is also different from many places people are used to. Knowing a few things in advance can make
Nam Ngum Lake: A Calm Nature Escape from Vientiane
Nam Ngum Lake is one of the most popular and accessible nature destinations near Vientiane Capital. Known for its wide open water, scattered islands, and peaceful atmosphere, it offers a very different rhythm from the city. This is not a place for fast sightseeing. It is a destination for slowing down, enjoying nature, and spending
A Responsible One-Day Itinerary from Vientiane
Wildlife Conservation, Nature, and a Slower Pace This one-day itinerary is designed for travelers who want a meaningful experience close to Vientiane Capital. It combines a visit to the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife with time in nature near the Nam Ngum area. The pace is relaxed, educational, and suitable for families, couples, expats, and
Visit the Lao Wildlife Conservation Center – A Meaningful Day Trip from Vientiane
If you are looking for a place near Vientiane where nature, learning, and responsible travel come together, the Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife is well worth a visit. Reopening to the public on 19 January 2026, the Lao Wildlife Conservation Center welcomes visitors to its newly built site after relocating from Ban Keun, Thoulakhom District.
20 January – What to Expect as a Visitor in Laos
(Lao People’s Armed Forces Day) 20 January is a national public holiday in Laos. Rather than a festival, it is a solemn and respectful day, focused on remembrance, national unity, and recognition of the Lao People’s Armed Forces. For travelers, the experience is subtle but meaningful, offering insight into how the country honors its institutions
Celebrating and Spending Time with Lao People: Parties, Friends, and Family
Partying with Lao people is usually calm, warm, and deeply social rather than loud or formal. Whether it is a family gathering, a small celebration with friends, or an event linked to religion or life milestones, the focus is on being together, sharing food, and enjoying the moment. You will quickly notice that Lao gatherings
Lao Food: What to Try, What You May Love, and How to Eat Comfortably
Lao food is often described as simple, fresh, and deeply connected to local ingredients and daily life. It is not designed to impress through presentation, but through balance—between herbs, spice, bitterness, and texture. For many international visitors, Lao food can feel both familiar and surprising at the same time. Sticky rice is at the heart
Culture and Local Life in Nong Khiaw – Muang Ngoi
Life in Nong Khiaw and Muang Ngoi follows a gentle, unhurried rhythm shaped by the Nam Ou River, the surrounding limestone mountains, and long-established traditions. Culture here is not something staged for visitors; it is expressed quietly through daily routines, household crafts, food, and spiritual practice. Weaving remains an important part of everyday life, particularly