Laos Customs, Etiquette, Culture and Warnings

This was also after an article appeared in the New York Times in early 2008 that made Luang Prabang the number one destination to visit in the world.

Surprisingly in 1995, tourist arrivals in Laos were only a mere 500,000 visitors. From 2001 to 2003, the numbers jumped to 750,000. And in 2008, that number shot to around 1.7 million tourists.

With the Laos SEA (South East Asian) Games taking place from 9 to 18th December 2009, the country is looking at the most visitors.

Lao Customs, Etiquette, Culture and Warnings

This guide is essential to anyone planning to visit Luang Prabang or Laos, as you should know their local customs, etiquette and cultures here.

Western-style greetings are not practised here.

The 25th SEA Games in Vientiane, Laos, will attract thousands of people, and I hope this general guide will help all visitors understand the Lao people, country and traditions.

Remember that Laos is not the same as Thailand or Vietnam. They are still considered a new tourist destination, so one should respect their customs, traditions and culture, especially as a traveller, businessman or guest.

Greetings in Lao.

Laos is a country where you will only see something Western or ultra-modern. There are no Mcdonald’s, KFC, Pizza Hut or Starbucks Coffee there.

You can hardly find any other beer besides Beer Lao, the national beer. This alone would make you feel totally in a foreign land.

Unlike other developing countries, Laos is considered the youngest of the Indochina group in terms of tourism.

Respecting the Lao culture and people.

If you have been to other Indochina countries and treated like a king, please do not think you can do it here.

The Lao people are friendly, much nicer than the neighbouring countries, so treat them respectfully.

How to behave in Luang Prabang and Laos.

When in public places around Laos, please show full respect where ever you go. This is especially when you go drinking at bars or cafes.

There are few party places in Vientiane, so expect a Bangkok environment to differ from Soi Cowboy or Patpong.

Overall in Luang Prabang, there are no discos or modern-day clubs there. You will only find restaurants and cafes that serve beer and liquor and those in your hotels or resorts.

Do not shout in Luang Prabang.

I noticed in Laos that there were no international brand hotels around there. The biggest hotel I saw was Don Chan Palace which was really huge.

Forget the Hilton, Marriott or Shangri-La hotels, as these hotels are only found here. I like it this way.

When travelling to a new place, you do not see the same old hotel brands or chains everywhere.

Dress appropriately when in Laos.

Respect the Lao religion when you are there.

Laos has many temples (Stupas) and places of worship, so when you visit these places, please follow the basic simple rules.

Even in Luang Prabang, there are countless temples and stupas where monks are seen walking around the main town area.

The monks are generally friendly; if you talk to them, they will attempt to talk back to you in simple English.

Temple etiquette when in Laos.

You will be surprised how many local monks speak decently good English around Laos and Luang Prabang.

This means that you can approach them to ask these monks some questions. Only some people speak English, but you must ask the monks first to talk in English.

Greetings in Laos.

Drug and Other Warnings in Laos

And Lao authorities are very strict with drugs. So, you should know better as you would not want to be sentenced to a Lao prison.

Laos’ other significant crimes are child prostitution, sex with minors, and taking out antiquities without formal paperwork.

If you are an antique collector, please check with the relevant departments before buying authentic Lao antiques.

Almsgiving in Luang Prabang Laos

Notice about Almsgiving in Laos.

In Luang Prabang or other places around Laos, there is a morning almsgiving session around the main town area or even at the temples.

Many people have abused this unique daily ritual, so please read up and understand what goes on and what you can do during the morning almsgiving here.

Do not abuse this traditional religious practice that has been going on for centuries. You are a foreigner here; therefore, you must respect this practice.

A general warning for travellers visiting Laos.

Like any other foreign country, you must understand each destination’s customs as they are not the same.

Over the years, many people have started to explore Indochina and Southeast Asia, with many travellers needing to fully understand the culture here.

Please do your homework before visiting a new country; everything should work out fine for your travels.

Other than that, Laos is a truly wonderful place to visit, and I recommend exploring Luang Prabang, so after you have understood the customs, etiquette and culture, you will have a great time here.