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Pigs everywhere, I like pigs. I never have any chance seeing pigs running around in my country, so this is my first time. They are extremely cute animals, believe me especially those baby pigs following their parents searching for foods nearby where they live. You can see ducks, chickens. And whenever our truck pass by their house, you can show youe hand waving to them, kids will waving their hand and chase after your truck.
Learn a few expressions: the appreciation is enormous!Spelling is definitely wrong, but it sounds something like...Hello = sabaideeThank you (very much) = kop chai (lai lai)I'm a vegetarian =khoi kin te pak
One night I wore a traditional dress (a wraparound skirt or pha sin) to dinner and the Lao really appreciated that.I allways dressed rather 'conservative': no shorts or mini-skirts or stuff like that.
Pay attention to what you're doing. This is a perfect picture of how not to behave. Don't point the soles of your feet at people and wear a shirt if others are wearing theirs. Sorry to say, even though I have lots of Israeli friends, Lao people get offended by Israelis coming in huge groups to Lao and treating the country like their playground, blasting music real loud, walking around with their shirts off all the time and being generally rude- that is the reputation they have. Thank goodness someone has taken over the Ugly American leadership role. Don't be an Ugly Tourist. Lao people may not have as much money, but they are at least clean- a stinky tourist is a sad, but common sight.
This is an example of the currency that was issued during the era of French colonial rule throughout Indochina. The money in Laos today is the Kip and is not nearly as attractive as this old piece of currency.
When travelling into minority villages upcountry you should always be respectful of their customs. many tribes fear photograpy, so you should always ask permission even if its through simple hand gestures. Do this before you point you camera at any tribal people.
Socially, every Lao Buddhist male is expected to become a monk some time during his life. A monk adheres to 10 vows, which include prohibitions against stealing, lying, intoxication, sexual invovement, eating after noon, listening to music or dancing, wearing jewellery, garlands or perfume, sleeping on high beds, and accepting money for personal use...the last and semingly most important vow is to never kill. I assume that means anyone and anything.
Laotian culture means buddhism, which is widespread all over the country. Monks will ask you to enter their temple and hear them chanting.However, Laos is also a poor country. It's hard sometimes walking around like a colonial...Picture: a 'graveyard' for buddha statues.
READING LIST: ~~~~~'The Ravens' by Christopher Robbins; a story about the famous pilots who fought in the Secret War of the CIA in Laos, gives insight about the structures of different Army troups and the politics behind it and the suffering of the Lao. ~~~~~ 'Traditional Recipes of Laos' by Phia Sing; THE cookbook, only to find abroad. ~~~~~ 'Tiger Balm' by Lucretia Stewart, travels in Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia... Lucretia travelled this route only 10 years ago... same, same... but a totally different story. ~~~~~
Neat and respectful dress should be worn in all religious shrines. It is not considered polite to visit religious monuments in shorts, miniskirts or hot pants. Though shoes can be worn in temple compounds, they should be removed before entering the chapel of the principal Buddha image. Indeed, all Buddha images are regarded as sacred, regardless of size, age or position, and should all be shown due respect. Buddhist monks are not allowed to touch or be touched by a woman, or accept anything from a woman's hand.
La Residence Phou Vao Luang Prabang
4 Reviews and 280 Opinions TOUGH MANAGEMENT While this facility may be nice, I know the management is tough and does not have...
Settha Palace Hotel Vientiane
5 Reviews and 129 Opinions Settha Palace is a small luxury family owned hotel.It has its importance as a historical example of...
Ban Sabai Riverside Bungalow Vang Vieng
98 Opinions
Reviews and photos of Laos attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Laos sightseeing.
More Regions in Laos
Q: My girlfriend and I are going to Laos in January or February. I am looking suggestions on places to go during that time. Beach,...
A: " weeks is not long but Vientiane, the capital is worth two days, then perhaps move on to Vang Vieng if you are into partying, lots of bars along the river where people...
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