Lao~ PDR Please Don't Rush
Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), has a rich past, stretching back 10,000 years. During its height, it ruled over current day Laos and much of neighboring northern Thailand. Landlocked and laid-back, it's the only one of its kind spin on the Southeast Asia experience. Buddhism permeates every aspect of life over here, changes come leisurely, and cities bed down early. An ideal place to take a sabbatical from office politics or put a gap in a super-packed travel agenda, this land of mountain, mists and wild natural exquisiteness tempts with unreviled harmony and quietude, so please, don't rush.
Laos, officially known as the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), has a rich past, stretching back 10,000 years. During its height, it ruled over current day Laos and much of neighboring northern Thailand. Landlocked and laid-back, it's the only one of its kind spin on the Southeast Asia experience. Buddhism permeates every aspect of life over here, changes come leisurely, and cities bed down early. An ideal place to take a sabbatical from office politics or put a gap in a super-packed travel agenda, this land of mountain, mists and wild natural exquisiteness tempts with unreviled harmony and quietude, so please, don't rush.
The capital Vientiane, which means 'royal sandalwood grove', refreshingly tranquil tone makes it feel like the perfect small town it is, as compared to the hectic, bustling capitals in other Southeast Asian countries. See the beautiful temples of this Buddhist country, and after that, the best thing to do here is to meander down to the waterside, unwind with a cold Beerlao - the Lao national beer - and watch the blazing sun set over the mighty Mekong River. Lao coffee from the Bolavens Plateau in Southern Laos is vastly regarded worldwide and a freshly ground local coffee is delectable and a 'must do' when visiting Laos.
A foodie haven, with the background of ancient temples, Vientaine became the capital city in 1563. The city contains many Buddhist monuments and temples, with the Pha That Luang being the most eminent, dating from the 16th century. The architecture of the building includes many references to Lao culture and identity, and thus has become a symbol of Lao nationalism. The stupa today consists of three levels, each conveying a reflection of part of the Buddhist doctrine.
Patuxai - literally meaning Victory Gate or Gate of Triumph is one of many significant attractions and a great highlight in the center of Vientiane. It has an uncanny semblance to the Arc de Triomphein Paris, takes great inspiration from it. Built in 1962, this memorial was built to memorialize Lao soldiers who had died in combat serving their country before the revolutionary wars. The monument has a mix design of French and Lao arts, and works in recent years on the monument grounds has transformed the surrounding field into the most popular park in Vientiane. Visitors who come to this city and drive pass this monument can't resist stopping by and having a closer look at this great site.
This is just a minor glimpse of Laos. Other major cities include Luang Prabang, Pakse, Savannakhet and Bokeo – just naming a few. Rich in colonial architecture and history, World Heritage Sites, gastronomy, and with its silk and local handicrafts this sleepy country will not fail to amaze you with its diverse culture and fantastic ecosystems. Open your heart, open your mind, and let the unadulterated faith and munificent generosity of Laos replenish your soul.
Laos will be hosting the 32nd ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) in Vientiane for the second time. ATF has played a very important role in the Region’s Tourism Development.
The country and its host city Vientiane is all geared up to welcome over 1,600 delegates which includes some 150 ASEAN tourism ministers and officials, 800 ASEAN exhibitors, 400 international buyers, 150 international and local media as well as 100 tourism trade visitors.
ASEAN TOURISM FORUM : 17 - 24 January 2013
