LAOS is a Southeast Asian country that was once a powerful kingdom called Lan Xang. It became a French colony in the 19th century and gained independence in 1953. It was divided by the Vietnam War and became a communist state in 1975. It has since reformed its economy and politics, but still faces many challenges, such as human rights, corruption, and poverty. Laos is rich in natural resources and tourism, but also suffers from social and environmental problems.

• TOTAL AREA: 236,800 sq m
• POPULATION : 7,852,377 (2023 est.)
• CAPITAL: Vientiane, population 840,940 (2023 est.)
• ETHNIC GROUPS: Lao 53.2%, Khmou 11%, Hmong 9.2%, Phouthay 3.4%, Tai 3.1%, Makong 2.5%, Katong 2.2%, Lue 2%, Akha 1.8%, other 11.6% (2015 est.)
• LANGUAGES: Lao (official), French, English, ethnic languages
• MAJOR RELIGIONS: Buddhist 64.7%, Christian 1.7%, none 31.4%, other/not stated 2.1% (2015 est.)
• TIME DIFFERENCE: UTC+7
• EXCHAGE RATES: Kip (LAK) per US Dollar (USD) 21,816 (2024)
• TELEPHONE CODE: +856
• EMERGENCY PHONES: Ambulance: 195; Police: 191
• TIPPING GUIDELINES: Tipping is not customary except in tourist-oriented restaurants where 10% of the bill is appreciated, but only if a service charge has not already been added. Tour guides and day-long drivers expect USD 10-15 per day for a gratuity. Tip hotel staff USD 2-3 per day for their service.
• SOUVENIRS: Hand-woven silk or cotton sarongs, gold and gemstone jewelry, wood carvings, spices, hill tribe bags
• CLIMATE: Laos has a tropical climate with a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to October and brings high humidity and showers. The temperature is warm, around 25°C to 33°C. The rainy season is good for seeing the waterfalls, the rice fields, and the wildlife. The dry season lasts from November to April and has two sub-seasons: the cool dry season and the hot dry season. The cool dry season is the most pleasant time, with mild temperature, low humidity, and clear skies. The cool dry season is also the peak tourist season, with many festivals and events. The hot dry season is the most challenging time, with very high temperature, humidity, and dust. The hot dry season is good for avoiding the crowds and enjoying the lower prices.