Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ENTERING LAOS
It's possible to enter Laos by land and air from Thailand, China, Vietnam and Cambodia.
Land borders are often remote and can be quite tough-going with scant transport and ac-
commodation on either side, but the actual frontier crossing itself is usually pretty quick
and simple. A 30-day visa is now available at most Laos border crossings.
AIR
There are no intercontinental flights operating to Laos. You can fly into or out of Laos at
Vientiane (from or to Cambodia, China, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam), Luang Prabang
(Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam) or Pakse (from or to Vietnam, Cambodia and Thail-
and).
LAND
Border Crossings
Laos has open land borders with Cambodia, China, Thailand and Vietnam, but not Myan-
mar. Under current rules, 30-day tourist visas are available on arrival at several (but not
all) international checkpoints. However, we still recommend checking the Thorn Tree
( lonelyplanet.com/thorntree ) and with other travellers before setting off because things change
frequently. Note that many crossings involve changing transport at the border. For details,
see the specific border-crossings boxes scattered throughout this chapter.
Car & Motorcycle
If you have your own car or motorcycle, you can import it for the length of your visa after
filling in forms and paying fees at the border; it's much easier if you have a carnet. Motor-
cyclists planning to ride through Laos should check out the wealth of info at www.gt-
rider.com .
Getting Around
AIR
Lao Airlines ( www.laoairlines.com ) handles all domestic flights in Laos. Fortunately, its re-
vamped new fleet has slick MA60s, with the airline rapidly improving its safety record.
Check the Lao calendar for public festivals before you fly, as it can be difficult getting a
seat. In provincial Lao Airlines offices you'll be expected to pay in cash.
Always reconfirm your flights a day before departing, as undersubscribed flights may
be cancelled or you could get bumped off the passenger list.
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