FACTS FOR TRAVELERS IN LAOS

Weather:

·May to October: The “wet” season is where the tropical lowlands average 30-32 degrees. It’s cooler in the mountains.

·November to March: dry season with milder temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees, cooler in mountain areas.

·April to June: dry season - the temperature can rise to up to 35 degrees Celsius.

Safety: Laos is a safe country. Pick pocketing and bag snatching exist, but not common.

Health: Malaria is a problem in some areas. Medical facilities are basic throughout the country - even in the capital Vientiane. We strongly recommend you consult your preferred doctor for the most up to date advice on the best health precautions. Travel Insurance must be purchased as a condition of travel.

Visa: An entry visa can be obtained upon arrival at Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Pakse airports, and at the Friendship Bridge near Vientiane without any required prior arrangements. The cost is US$30 and travellers require 2 passport photos.

Money: US$ and Thai Baht cash are accepted throughout the country and can easily be used instead of kip (local currency unit). It’s advisable to have some kips to get a better price for small items such as bottled water, cyclo rides, etc. It can be difficult to exchange travellers checks outside of Vientiane & Luang Prabang. You are advised to carry a mix of US$ cash and travellers cheques. Credit cards can be used in limited hotels, shops and restaurants.

Departure Tax: International 10USD

Government: LPDR-Laos People Democratic Republic

Language: Lao

Electricity: 220V (50 Hz) ; 2-round pin plugs are common.

Important dates affecting touring, and compulsory meals

•  01 Jan - International New Year's Day:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices will be closed, as will some businesses.

• 20 Jan  - Military Day:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices will be closed, as will some businesses.

• 08 Mar  - Womens' Day:
  Public holiday. Banks will however be open. Some public offices only will be closed.

• 14 - 16 Apr - Lao New Year:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices will be closed, as will some businesses. Wats and museums in Vientiane and Luang Prabang will also be closed on at least one day during this period.

• 01 May  - International Labour Day:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices will be closed, as will some businesses.

• Oct  - Boat Race Festival:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices in Vientiane and Luang Prabang will be closed, as will some businesses.

• 02 Dec - National Day:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices will be closed, as will some businesses. Wats and museums in Vientiane and Luang Prabang will also be closed.

• 24 Dec  - Christmas Eve:
  Not a public holiday.
  Compulsory meals at Mouang Luang Hotel, Luang Prabang. Price details for 2003 are not yet available.

• Dec  - Jan  - International New Year period:
  Public holiday. Banks and public offices will be closed, as will some businesses.
  Compulsory meals at Mouang Luang Hotel, Luang Prabang on Dec. 31. Price details for 2003 are not yet available.

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