From Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang, discover the beauty of Laos, one of Southeast Asia's least-visited countries.
Laos is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, bordered by China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. One of the region's most underrated destinations, it features mountainous landscapes, dense forests, and the mighty Mekong River, which forms much of its western border. With no coastline, rivers have long played a vital role in its transportation and trade.
I personally didn't know much about Laos before visiting, and I was pleasantly surprised by its charm. If you're planning a trip too, here's a quick travel guide to help you get started.
Table of Contents
Laos Overview
Capital: Vientiane
Country Code: +856
Continent: Asia
Timezone: GMT+7
Currency: Lao Kip (LAK)
Airport: Wattay International Airport (VTE)
Language: Lao
Day 1: Our Stay in Vang Vieng
Arrived in Vang Vieng, Laos. Photo: Lord Acuña
From Bangkok, Thailand, my friend Jane and I took an overnight sleeper train to Laos. It was a chilly morning when we arrived at the border. After clearing immigration, we made our way to Vientiane, the country's capital, about 40 minutes from Thanaleng Railway Station. We stopped for breakfast before continuing on a four-hour drive to Vang Vieng, where our guesthouse was located.
Hot Air Balloon Ride
My first hot air balloon ride in Vang Vieng, Laos. Photo: Lord Acuña
We arrived in Vang Vieng at around 02:00 PM. With only a short time in town, we didn't waste a minute. Our guesthouse helped arrange activities, and we immediately booked a hot air balloon ride, one of the area's most popular experiences. Flights usually operate at either sunrise or sunset.
A sunset hot air balloon ride with my friend Jane.
I originally suggested taking the sunrise flight, but our schedule didn't allow it, so we opted for the sunset ride instead. The experience included convenient pick-up and drop-off at our guesthouse. This was my first hot air balloon ride ever, and I absolutely loved it. Thanks to my friend, Jane, for suggesting this activity!
Day 2: Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
After our hot air balloon ride, we returned to our accommodation to pack before taking a sleeper bus to Luang Prabang, a province further north in Laos. We caught the last departure at midnight, and the journey took around seven hours, making it slower than travelling by minivan or VIP bus. However, since it was an overnight trip – just like our train journey from Thailand – we didn't mind the extra travel time. We arrived at around 07:00 AM, and an even colder morning greeted us.
The Magical Kuang Si Falls
Early morning at Kuang Si Waterfall Park. Photo: Lord Acuña
Our main goal in going to Luang Prabang was to see the Kuang Si Falls. As soon as we entered the park, waterfalls that looked like they had come straight out of a calendar came into view. The striking turquoise pools and lush surroundings were even more breathtaking in person.
Probably not obvious, but it was cold when we got there. Photo: Lord Acuña
The pools are connected by a series of cascades, some reaching up to five metres high, and are surrounded by thick tropical forest. If you don't feel like swimming, there are plenty of shaded spots in the park where you can simply sit back and enjoy the scenery.
Photo: Lord Acuña
Personally, I'd say taking a dip is a must. Jane and I had planned to swim — or at least get our feet wet — but she backed out at the last minute because the water was freezing. I was a little hesitant at first too, but I didn't want to miss the chance to experience it for myself.
Me swimming at Kuang Si Falls. Photo: Jane Zapanta
Conclusion
Our trip to Laos lasted only two days, and most of it was spent travelling from one place to another. We didn't even get the chance to explore Vientiane, the capital city. If you're going here, I'd recommend allotting at least three or four days to enjoy more of what the country has to offer.
More than getting another pair of passport stamps, I loved exploring Laos that still feels relatively undiscovered. It's one of those places that quietly grows on you, and I'd gladly return to.
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