8 min read
How to Trek Responsibly in Laos: Choosing a Community Homestay Trek
Laos's northern trails offer forest, villages and real connection, if you choose well. How to pick a responsible, community-based trek that helps.
On the Ground Laos
Insights, updates and local perspectives to better understand Laos as it evolves.
All articles
8 min read
Why Laos Is Becoming Southeast Asia's Slow-Travel Refuge in 2026
As its neighbours grapple with crowds, Laos is stepping into the spotlight as the region's calm, authentic alternative. Here is what is driving the 2026 shift.
8 min read
The Thakhek Loop and Konglor Cave: Central Laos at Its Slowest and Wildest
Central Laos hides one of Southeast Asia's great slow adventures: a quiet motorbike loop through karst country to the river cave at Konglor.
8 min read
Paying in Laos in 2026: Kip, Dollars, Baht and the ATM Situation
A practical 2026 guide to paying in Laos: the kip, US dollars and Thai baht, ATM limits and fees, cards, and what currency to bring.
8 min read
Staying Safe from UXO in Laos: A Traveller's Guide
Laos is the most bombed country per capita, and UXO remains a reality. A calm, practical guide to staying safe from unexploded ordnance, and how to help.
9 min read
The Weak Kip: What Laos's Currency Crisis Means for Travellers in 2026
Laos's currency has lost over half its value against the dollar. What the weak kip and high inflation mean for travellers in 2026, and how to travel well.
8 min read
Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars: Slow Travel Through Laos's Great Mystery
A slow-travel guide to Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khouang, Laos: the ancient stone jars, the war history, staying safe from UXO, and how to visit.
9 min read
Laos's Vientiane–Vang Vieng Expressway and the Road North in 2026
Laos's first expressway has transformed the trip north from Vientiane. A 2026 guide to what's open, how it compares with the railway, and what's still to come.
9 min read
Cultural Etiquette in Laos: Temples, the Alms Ceremony and Getting It Right
Laos is gentle, devout and easily disrespected by accident. A practical guide to cultural etiquette: temples, monks, the alms ceremony and everyday courtesies.
8 min read
How the Laos-China Railway Is Reshaping Travel in Laos in 2026
The Laos-China Railway has rewired how people move through Laos. How the fast line is reshaping where travellers go, and what it means for slow travel.
8 min read
Si Phan Don and the 4000 Islands: Laos's Slow South on the Mekong
Where the Mekong braids into thousands of islands, Si Phan Don is Laos at its slowest. A guide to Don Det, Don Khon, the waterfalls and doing nothing.
8 min read
Laos's Digital Immigration Form and Entry Rules in 2026
Laos now requires a digital immigration form for every entry and exit. What the LDIF is, when to submit it, and the other 2026 rules that catch travellers.
Ready to travel? Get free quotes from up to 5 Laos agencies
Request free quotes