Sports
One of the few sports available to visitors to Laos is mountain
biking, which is made more attractive by the relatively small
number of motor vehicles on the road. Though serious bikers
should bring their own, some bikes are available for hire
in the larger towns.
Wildlife
Though threatened by deforestation, the flora and fauna of
Laos is still abundant. Many rare and endangered species -
including primates, mammals and birds inhabit the densely
forested regions of the north and north east, while the Mekong
River is home to freshwater dolphins and giant catfish. Unexploded
bombs and mines left over from the Second Indochina War make
the services of a professional guide essential.
Eating
Lao cuisine is very similar to its Thai neighbour's, and
meals of spicy soup, sticky rice and chicken or laab are favourites
with locals. Vientiane is serviced by several good French
restaurants, a remnant of the country's colonial era, as are
the baguettes and croissants are also widely available.
Drinking
Though tap water should be avoided, boiled water in thermos
bottles is widely available, as are safe bottled mineral water
and soft drinks. Beer Lao - the tasty and strong (5% alcohol)
local brew - comes in either 300ml or 600ml bottles or in
2 litre jugs. The local rice whisky, Lao, Lao is a great favourite
among the Lao people.
The central markets in Vientiane and Luang Prabang both offer
a wide range of souvenirs, as do many of the cities' shops.
However, while the majority of private shops have fixed prices,
in the markets the art of bargaining still rules
Weaving
The art of weaving is still very much a home industry in
Laos, where some of the finest silk and cotton weavers in
the world can be found in the smallest of communities. Traditional
designs and patterns vary from province to province, and the
intricate work can be purchased much cheaper at the source
than from many handicraft stores, markets and hotel shops.
Antique woven pieces are still available but are becoming
increasingly rare, often fetching very high prices.
Carving
From the simple and mundane, to the aesthetic and highly
spiritual, Lao craftsmen can carve a wide variety of attractive
pieces from wood, bone and stone.
Jewellery
The crafting of gold and silver jewelry is another skill
at which the Lao people excel. Many of the best examples of
silver jewelry to be found in the country are the work of
several of the hilltribes. However, it should be noted that
some silver and copper items exported from Laos are subject
to tax according to weight. Gemstones, such as sapphires,
can also be found at reasonable prices.
Artifacts
The export of antiques, such as Buddha images and other artifacts,
is prohibited. Any antique items that have been purchased
in another country must be declared to customs on arrival
in Laos.
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