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| Facts at a Glance |
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Area
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236,800 sq.km.
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Capital City
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Vientiane
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Population
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5.41 million
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Language
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Lao (official), French and English
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Religion
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Buddhism
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Climate
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Tropical Monsoon, Rainy Season May-November. Dry Season December-April
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Local Time
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GMT +7
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Currency
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Laotian kip = 100 cents. Notes of kip 5,000, 2,000, 1000,
500, 100 and 50.
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Exchange
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Banks, licensed offices, and hotels. Credit cards/traveller's
cheques not widely accepted. Cash US dollars and Thai baht
universally accepted. Small denominations very useful.
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Business Hours
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Office hours: 0800-1200 and 1300-1600, Monday to Friday.
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Tipping
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Tipping is not customary in Laos. However, small gratuities
may be given in appreciation for efficient, friendly service.
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Nightlife
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Apart from cultural shows presented at some hotels, there
is no established nightlife catering to tourists.
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Electricity supply
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220V, 50 Hz
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Photography
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Basic supplies are available. Observe normal courtesy when
photographing people, especially monks. Avoid taking photographs
at airports and military locations.
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Tourist Information
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National Touirsm Authority of Lao PDR, PO Box 3556, Lane
Xang Avenue, Vientiane, Tel (856-21) 212248, 212251, Fax (856-21)
212769
The most reliable information can also be usually be obtained
from large travel agency offices.
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