Laos - Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Northern Thailand - page 767

Finally, the transport infrastructure in Laos is barely recognisable compared with what
existed just a few years ago. Huge, foreign-funded road construction projects have trans-
formed a network of rough dirt tracks into comparatively luxurious sealed affairs.
TELEPHONE
Laos' country code is 856. To dial out of the country press 00 first, or ask for the
local mobile operator's cheaper code. For long-distance calls use a post office, Lao Tele-
com centre (rates vary in these, but in Vientiane are very reasonable) or internet cafes.
As a guide, all mobile-phone numbers have the prefix 020 followed by seven digits,
while the newer WIN Phones (fixed phones without a landline) begin with 030.
Mobile Phones
With recently improved signals, you can use your own GSM mobile phone in Laos, either
on roaming (prohibitively expensive) or by buying a local SIM card for about US$5, then
purchasing prepaid minutes for a further US$5. Domestic calls are reasonably cheap. In
our experience, Lao Telecom, M-Phone and ETL have the widest network coverage.
TOURIST INFORMATION
The Lao National Tourism Administration (NTAL) and provincial tourism authorities
have offices throughout Laos. The offices in Tha Khaek, Savannakhet, Pakse, Luang
Namtha, Sainyabuli, Phongsali and Sam Neua are excellent, with well-trained staff and
plenty of brochures.
NTAL also has three good websites:
Central Laos Trekking www.trekkingcentrallaos.com
Ecotourism Laos www.ecotourismlaos.com
Lao National Tourism Administration www.tourismlaos.gov.la
VISAS
Laos issues 30-day tourist visas on arrival at several popular airports and borders. They
are available at Vientiane, Luang Prabang and Pakse airports. Visas on arrival cost
between US$30 and US$42, payable in US dollars, Lao kip or Thai baht, in cash, depend-
ing on what passport you hold. You'll also need two passport photos.
Regulations and prices change regularly, so it's worth checking online or through the
traveller grapevine before turning up to some remote border. If you want to be doubly