Laos Travel Guide: Honest Tips & Must-Knows! 🇱🇦

Just returned from a mother-daughter trip to Laos (Vientiane → Luang Prabang → Vang Vieng). Sharing real talk—this isn’t as budget-friendly as you might think, especially during peak seasons like National Day! ✈️ Itinerary: Guangzhou → Vientiane → Luang Prabang → Vang Vieng 📍 Day 1: Arrival in Vientiane Visa: Pre-applied e-visa for smooth immigration. Money Exchange: Changed ¥100 at the airport (just enough for a taxi). Use LOCA app (transparent pricing, quick rides). Hotel: Stayed near Patuxai Arch (10-min walk, great location!). DM for hotel name! Pro Tip: Nearby currency exchange shop offered 1:3000 rate (better than airport). 🏛️ Day 2: Exploring Vientiane Sights: Patuxai Arch → Black Stupa → Pha That Luang (all close to each other). Buddha Park: Worth the taxi ride! Quirky sculptures, small but fun. Night Market: Vientiane Night Market (永珍夜市)—lively, delicious street food! Black Beerlao 🍺 = best! 🚆 Day 3: Vientiane → Luang Prabang (High Speed Rail) Train Tickets: Booked via LCR app. Arrival Shuttle: Cheap buses to hotels (no need for expensive taxis). Hotel: My Ban Lao (aesthetic, free shuttle service if staying 2+ nights). 🍽️ Food Review: Manda de Laos (Overrated?) "Honestly… skip unless you’re desperate for Instagram pics." 2 drinks + 3 dishes (1 dessert) = ~¥400 💸 Better option: Riverside BBQ hotpot (opens at 5 PM!) or sunset cafés with hot air balloons. 💡 Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Laos isn’t as cheap as expected (especially touristy spots). 2️⃣ LOCA app > haggling with taxis. 3️⃣ Night markets > fancy restaurants for authentic/local flavors. 4️⃣ Book trains early (LCR app is a lifesaver). #LaosTravel #HonestReview #Vientiane #LuangPrabang #TravelTips #SoutheastAsis