Ismail KhalidHolidays are important because they offer us time to unwind, relax and reflect. If you are planning to break your chaotic routine, you should look for holidays that would allow you to spend your time the way you want it. Southeast Asia remains one of the top destinations for many people who want to take time off and enjoy their holidays alone or with their family and loved ones. In Southeast Asia, Laos is one of the most underrated destinations that would offer you holiday experiences like no other.
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With spectacular natural landscapes, architecture, intricate handicrafts, and delicious food, Laos is one of the best places in Southeast Asia offering you a great holiday experience. However, it is essential that you know some of the best places to visit when you are holidaying in Laos. The country is further divided into northern, central and southern provinces. If you are unsure about how to make a custom itinerary for your Laos trip you can look for experts like www.experiencetravelgroup.com to help you with planning your Laos tour.
Here are 10 unmissable places you should visit in Laos
Luang Prabang
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When you are visiting Laos you need to put Luang Prabang on top of your must-visit places. This is one of the important places which has cultural, historical and architectural significance. Luang Prabang is also classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and you want to make sure that you do not miss this location. Today, Luang Prabang Province remains one of the religious and spiritual centres. Apart from this, you can also enjoy some local cuisine that allows you to know more about local culture and traditions. When you are done enjoying the street food you can head into the forests for some hiking expeditions. Luang Prabang also has various ancient temples and vibrant markets that can keep you busy.
Vientiane
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While you are exploring Laos you cannot miss visiting the capital city of Laos. Vientiane is a lively place that can provide you with plenty of experiences through its markets and temples. However, when you are here you can see a burst of culture as you find French colonial architecture, as you eat some of the local street food and explore the markets on foot. Vientiane is a hidden gem especially if you are looking for unexplored cities in Southeast Asia. Pha That Luang and Wat Si Saket are some of the famous temples here to visit. Also, do not miss visiting the Lao National Museum which gives you an insight into prehistoric Laos.
Savannnakhet
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Back in the day, Savannakhet was a French trading outpost but today it has become a city for those who want to go back in time. While the city is not as bustling and vibrant as Vientiane, you can still find plenty of buildings and structures of the French colonial era. This is the perfect destination for those who are interested in architecture and architecture photography. This would be a perfect hands-on experience to capture stunning building images.
Luang Namtha
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When you are exploring the northern province of Laos, you may also want to visit the Luang Namtha. If you love to explore the rural side of Laos this is one of the must-visit places. This would provide you with all the lush greenery that would make you feel relaxed. If you are looking for a quiet escape, Luang Namtha is one of the best places that you should stay in. While there is not much to explore, you can take a rental bicycle and explore the inner roads of this quiet town. You also have the opportunity to walk through local markets and food stalls that sell local delicacies.
Phonsavan
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If you are looking for a countryside experience in Laos, Phonsavan would be a must-visit destination. This place is the capital of the Xieng Khouang province. Here, you can enjoy some pristine green landscape to make you feel relaxed. When you are here, you may want to visit the famous Plain of Jars which is an archaeological site that consists of thousands of sandstone jars from the Iron Age. Also, while you are here you can visit many war memorial sites dedicated to the heroes of the Secret War. Phonsavan is also known for its culinary treats and if you are looking for some of the traditional food dishes in Laos you can find them here. This town also has decent nightlife and shopping options.
Vang Vieng
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One of the most picturesque villages in Laos, Vang Vieng is perfect for those who love to post their pictures on social media. The spectacular mountains of Vang Vieng instantly grabs your attention and charm you with their pristine views. One of the best things that you can do when you are in Vang Vieng is take a rental bike and head out to where the roads take you. This is where you will come across panoramic views of rice fields, mountain ranges and stunning waterfalls. You can visit the Pha Tang Bridge when you are here. Vang Vieng also has lagoons where you can swim and have a peaceful day. If you are looking for a challenge you can hike up the Nam Xay Viewpoint for a spectacular view of Vang Vieng.
Paksong
While you are exploring Laos you would also want to make a visit to Paksong. This is one of the towns in the Bolaven Plateau and can provide you with a great relaxing experience. This town is ideal for those who want to get out of the urban chaos and head into a quiet village experience. The best part about Paksong is that you can find plenty of accommodation and food options. Hence, you can choose from a variety of hotels and apartments that suit your requirements and budget.
Thakhek
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With plenty of caves and spectacular scenery, Thakhek is one of the places you should not miss when you are in Laos for a visit. This is where you can enjoy the untouched landscape in Laos. Also, if you are looking for adventure like exploring the caves you can do that here. Thakhek has plenty of rental motorbike places which allow you to explore the town to your liking.
Champasak
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If you are passionate about thick tropical jungles, French colonial ruins and ancient temples you should not miss Champasak in the southern province of Laos. This is close to the borders where Thailand and Cambodia meet. While you are here, you can also visit the ruins of Wat Phou which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also find many local markets and restaurants here that can provide you with the best meals in Laos.
Don Khong Island
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Considered one of the quiet and ancient islands in Laos, Don Khong Island is a great place that you should not miss when you are in Laos. This is where you can learn a lot about rice farming and cultivation. With plenty of quiet spaces to explore you can have a great laidback holiday experience when you are in Laos which you should not miss.
