by Jane Bickersteth (Author), Joshua Eliot (Author)
Laos has been effectively cut off to the casual visitor since the 1960s. Embroiled in the conflict in Vietnam, divided by civil war, and then isolated by its economic and political policies, Laos only recently began to accept the concept of "independent" travel. Although few make it to this land-locked corner of Asia, its Theravada Buddist culture, pristine countryside, and French influence make it one of the great treasures of the region. Laos remains a truly unique and delightful country to visit. This comprehensive handbook contains extensive listings on all practical aspects of travel. It includes: full coverage of all the entry points from Thailand into Laos such as at Nong Khai on the Mekong River and via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge; a comprehensive section on Bangkok in Thailand, the best place to obtain visas and the starting point for most trips to Laos; information on where to stay, where and what to eat; and details of festivals such as New Year, celebrated four times a year, and local festivals.
Format: Paperback
Pages: 336
Edition: 3
Publisher: Footprint Handbooks
Published: 01 Nov 2002
ISBN 10: 1903471397
ISBN 13: 9781903471395
Book Overview: Footprint Handbooks won the Bronze Award in the 1999 Top Guidebook Series of the Wanderlust Readers' Awards.