Flight Destinations
Flights to Laos
Destinations in Laos
Laos, or officially Lao People’s Democratic Republic, is a country situated in Southeast Asia. Laos is landlocked by Burma, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, and like many of the countries surrounding it Laos is rich in scenic beauty and beautiful architecture.
Laos is served by two international airports, one in Vientiane (airport code: VTE) and the other in Luang Prabang (airport code: LPQ). One stop flights to Laos from the UK are available to either Vientiane or Luang Prabang and are offered by Thai Airways International. Qantas Airways and British Airways also provide one stop flights to Laos, but only to the capital city Vientiane. You can also choose from the likes of Air Berlin or Vietnam Airlines who both provide flights to Laos from the UK via two connections.
The Tourist Attractions of Laos
Although Laos is one of this region’s poorest countries it is a country rich in attractions. Often overlooked in favour of its neighbours, travellers who take the time to explore Laos will find it’s just as good, if not better, in certain respects than its busier counterparts. Visitors should not expect some of the luxuries found in places like Thailand though, and hotels are generally limited to the main tourist hot spots. Even so, if you want luxury you can still find it in the country’s two largest cities and if you’re trekking, expect basic hotels and hostels.
Vientiane
Compared to somewhere like Bangkok, the capital and largest city of Laos, Vientiane, is positively sleepy! This is part of the city’s appeal though as you can take your time and enjoy everything the city has to offer.
The many temples and stupas are usually the main attraction here. Wat Si Saket is the oldest, having been built in 1818, though it’s not the most ornately decorated. Pha That Luang is far more extravagant in its decoration though. This temple was originally built in 1566 but has suffered though the years and had to be re-built numerous times. Pha That Luang is the national symbol of Laos and is the most important religious building in the country.
Luang Prabang
The former capital of Laos, Luang Prabang, has even more impressive temples to enjoy and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of what it has to offer. Highlights include the former royal palace, Haw Kham, plus the oldest monastery in the city, Vat Xieng Toung.
Outside the city and accessible by boat or road is the Buddha Caves, called Pak Ou Caves, which are worth the short trip. Whilst outside the city make sure you also visit the picturesque Kuang Si Falls.
Champasak
Of the numerous other beautiful and impressive places in Laos, Champasak stands out. This is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features impressive Khmer ruins of temples. The Wat Phu temple, which dates from the 12th century, is actually still in use today.
When Should You Visit Laos?
There are three seasons in Laos and the country has a tropical climate. Between May and November is the rainy season. This is followed by the dry season from December to April. The third season is also dry but temperatures between February and April are much hotter than previous months, giving this the title of ‘hot’ season!