Laos, officially Lao People's Democratic Republic, independent state in South East Asia, bounded on the north by China and Vietnam, on the east by Vietnam, on the south by Cambodia, on the west by Thailand, and on the north-west by Myanmar (Burma). Laos is South East Asia's only landlocked nation. The total area is 236,800 sq km (91,429 sq mi). The capital and largest city of Laos is Vientiane.
Official Name:
Lao People's Democratic Republic
Capital City:
Vientiane
Languages:
Lao (official). English, French, local dialects
Official Currency:
New Kip
Religions:
Buddhist, Animisy, others
Population: 5,580,000
Land Area: 230,800 sq km (89,112 sq miles)
Basic Information:
Area: 236,800 sq.km.
Capital: Vientiane
Population: 5.41 million
Language: Lao (official), French and English
Religion: Buddhism
Climate:
Tropical Monsoon, Rainy Season May-November. Dry Season December-April Local Time:
GMT +7 Currency:
Laotian kip = 100 cents. Notes of kip 5,000, 2,000, 1000, 500, 100 and 50. Exchange:
Banks, licensed offices, and hotels. Credit cards/traveller's cheques not widely accepted. Cash US dollars and Thai baht universally accepted. Small denominations very useful. Business hours:
Office hours: 0800-1200 and 1300-1600, Monday to Friday. Electricity supply:
220V, 50 Hz Tipping:
Tipping is not customary in Laos. However, small gratuities may be given in appreciation for efficient, friendly service. Nightlife:
Apart from cultural shows presented at some hotels, there is no established nightlife catering to tourists. Photography:
Basic supplies are available. Observe normal courtesy when photographing people, especially monks. Avoid taking photographs at airports and military locations. Tourist Information:
National Touirsm Authority of Lao PDR, PO Box 3556, Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, Tel (856-21) 212248, 212251, Fax (856-21) 212769 The most reliable information can also be usually be obtained from large travel agency offices.
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Laos