If you love to holiday in Southeast Asia but are looking for somewhere a little different and with fewer tourists, Laos is the destination for you. The pace of life is much slower in Laos compared to some of its neighbours, but there is still plenty to see and do when you visit. Below are some of the excellent places you can visit when on holiday in Laos that will help ensure you have a fantastic trip and take home plenty of beautiful memories.

Vientiane

Vientiane is one of the must-see places in Laos, and it is the capital city of the country and is the most densely populated part of the country. That being said, when compared to Bangkok, it seems like a sleepy little town. However, it is packed full of museums, historical places and architecture, shopping, bars, restaurants, and plenty of things to see and do for visitors and is an excellent place to start your adventure in Laos.

Luang Prabang

Another place you will want to ensure you visit in Laos is Luang Prabang, a small town on the banks of the might Mekong River. You will find European style cafes and restaurants throughout the town, a throwback to the colonial past of Laos. You can enjoy many beautiful temples, trekking, markets, and plenty of gorgeous spots, including waterfalls you can visit.

Huay Xai

Huay Xai is on the border with Thailand, making it another popular destination that people enjoy visiting. It is also famous for the river cruises, which start here and head to Luang Prabang, and it is a peaceful and idyllic way to enjoy the Mekong River. If you are an animal lover, you will want to ensure you visit the famous Gibbon Experience in the Bokeo Nature Reserve.

Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is nestled between Luang Prabang and Vientiane and is a popular destination with backpackers visiting Laos. A popular tourist attraction is taking an inner tube ride down the Nam Song River and peacefully watching the world float by. You can also visit the beautiful lagoon at Tham Phu Kham Cave and marvel at the bronze Buddha statue.

Si Phan Don Islands

Laos is a landlocked country, so there are no beaches, but the closest thing you have available is Si Phan Don Islands. There are thousands of islands in this part of the Mekong River, and it is the perfect place to relax and explore. There is something for everyone here, and you can have a quiet and peaceful time or head to some of the busier areas with some nightlife and plenty of like-minded people.