| Area | 236,800sqkm |
| Capital City | Vientiane |
| Population | 5.41 million |
| Language | Lao (official), French and English |
| Religion | Buddhism |
| Climate | Tropical Monsoon, Rainy Season May-November. Dry Season December-April |
| Local Time | GMT +7 |
| Currency | Laotian kip = 100 cents. Notes of kip 5,000, 2,000, 1000, 500, 100 and 50. |
| Exchange | 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. |
| Business Hours | Office hours: 08:00 - 12:00 and 13:00 - 16:00, Monday to Friday. |
| Tipping | Tipping is not customary in Laos. However, small gratuities may be given in appreciation for efficient, friendly service. |
| Nightlife | Apart from cultural shows presented at some hotels, there is no established nightlife catering to tourists. |
| Electricity supply | 220V, 50 Hz |
| Photography | Basic supplies are available. Observe normal courtesy when photographing people, especially monks. Avoid taking photographs at airports and military locations. |
| Tourist Information | National Tourism 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. |