South East Asia
Laos
A landlocked gem of Buddhist temples, misty mountains, and slow river life — perfectly sized for 15 days of authentic Southeast Asia without the crowds.
A landlocked gem of Buddhist temples, misty mountains, and slow river life — perfectly sized for 15 days of authentic Southeast Asia without the crowds.
The essential apps and websites every traveller needs before hitting the road
💡 Pro tip: LOCA requires a Lao phone number to register — tourists can use inDrive instead as it accepts international numbers and works immediately on arrival.
📍 Where to buy: Both SIMs are available at Wattay Airport (VTE) on arrival. Passport required.
An adventure hub surrounded by dramatic karst limestone scenery. Rock climbing, kayaking, zip-lining, and hot-air ballooning fill the days — with the Vang Vieng lagoons ideal for a half-day stop on the way between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. Budget 1–2 nights to experience the highlights without overstaying.
The gateway to the Bolaven Plateau — Laos's coffee-growing highlands — and the slow islands of Si Phan Don. A relaxed city with a French colonial quarter and good cycling routes. Allow 1 night here before continuing south.
A cluster of Mekong islands near the Cambodian border — the ideal final stop before crossing into Cambodia. Don Det is the backpacker hub; Don Khon is quieter for hammock-based slow travel. Almost no motorised traffic, bicycles only. Budget 2–3 nights to truly unwind before moving on.