12
Jul 2017
A time for deep reflection in Laos
Kao Phansa
Buddhism is the primary religion in Laos. You only need to take a short stroll around Luang Prabang to understand how integral Buddhism is to the culture of this beautiful UNESCO Heritage town. With every footstep you feel tranquility alongside the vibrancy of beautiful colours from the copious temples and the orange clad monks going about their daily duties. Every rainy season marks the beginning of very important period in
06
Jun 2017
The majestic elephants of Laos
Elephants have a strong link to Lao culture and traditions. They used to be loyal companions for the rich families but also respected wild creatures. Laos has always been associated to elephants and is called “the land of a million elephants” in South East Asia. In temple walls, tattoos, houses and even traditional clothes, the elephant figure is a symbol of power and wisdom. Nowadays, elephants are endangered due to
20
May 2017
5 best waterfalls in Laos, North to South
Laos is famous for its preserved nature and its life around the Mighty Mekong. We propose you another way to travel around the Land of a Million of Elephants, by visiting its astonishing waterfalls. On the tracks of the “100 Waterfalls” in Nong Khiaw Nong Khiaw is a charming village situated in the north of Laos. Nong Khiaw is famous for its nature, trekking and its beautiful view point.
23
Mar 2017
Luang Prabang, UNESCO city
UNESCO mission The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specific branch of the United Nations (UN). Its goal is to contribute to peace and security by taking action into 5 major programs: education, natural sciences, social/human sciences, culture and communication/information. UNESCO’s mission is “to contribute to the building of peace, the eradication of poverty, sustainable development and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information”. One of the UNESCO project is the protection of
27
Feb 2017
Lao Coffee
Laos has a special and new relationship with coffee. The first coffee plants were introduced to the country by the French colonialist around 1915. However coffee plantations in Laos started only a few decades ago and until now Lao coffee has not been well known for its quality. The origins of Lao Coffee With an elevation range of 1,000 to 1,350 meters, several rivers, an ample rainfall, generally cool temperatures
14
Jan 2017
Hmong New Year in Laos
The Hmongs are an ethnic group originally from the Yellow River region of China. Over the last centuries the Hmong people have migrated to mountainous regions of China, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and also Thailand. To this day, they maintain a strong community culture and a traditional way of life. This Hmong people are mainly animist and shamanist. Today there are more than 4 million Hmong people in the world. In Laos there is
Every year in October, the Light Festival transforms the UNESCO city of Luang Prabang. Parade, lanterns and Buddhist ceremonies; this tradition is considered as the most enchanting event of the year in Laos. Called “Lai Heua Fai” in Lao, it is the occasion to show respect to the spirit of the river. Here are some “must do” activities during this amazing and unique festival. Enjoy a walk around the
11
Sep 2016
A WIND OF SOLIDARITY IS BLOWING IN LAOS
Laos is probably one of the most beautiful and wild countries in South East Asia. At the same time it is also one of the poorest countries in the world. The population endures very low income as well as under equipped schools and hospitals. In the past decades the international community started caring about this wonderful and traditional Buddhist country. Many NGOs and other associations are now helping Laos
08
Jul 2016
The Northern hidden beauties
In the past few years, Laos has raised the attention of international tourists for its wild landscapes and rich Buddhist culture. Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and Vientiane are some “must see” places in Laos, the kingdom of a million elephants. But if you leave the touristic areas, you will discover another Laos, more authentic and peaceful. These are destinations such as: Sayaboury, Hongsa, Muang Ngeun or Pakbeng. They are cities
02
Jun 2016
The Vat Phou ruins, a testimony of the past
In the South of Laos, on the west bank of the mighty Mekong, the Vat Phou ruins are a wonderful testimony of the past. Eight kilometers away from Champasak, this exceptional site is an ancient set of temples. Although Vat Phou was built as a Hindu temple, it is now used for worship by Theravada Buddhists since the XIII century. Vat Phou (or Wat Phu) is considered as the oldest