Vientiane Province Travel Tips
To have a better travel experience in Vientiane Province, there are some useful Vientiane Province travel tips which may be helpful for your Vientiane Province tour. When plan your trip to Vientiane Province, view our answers to questions about Vientiane Province travel to get better understanding of Vientiane Province.
Useful Numbers
Here are some useful numbers in Vientiane Province:
- Police Emergency Number: 191
- Ambulance and Rescue: 195
- Fire Department: 190
- Provincial Police Headquarters: +856 21 700 111
- Provincial Hospital: +856 21 260 988
- Provincial Education Office: +856 21 710 246
- Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office: +856 21 250 151
- Provincial Tourism Office: +856 21 242 403
- Provincial Administrative Office: +856 21 215 551
Please note that these numbers may be subject to change and may not be up to date.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Vientiane Province in Laos is during the cool and dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, temperatures are milder, and there is less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The hot season, which lasts from March to May, can be quite uncomfortable due to the high temperatures and humidity. The rainy season, from June to October, can also be a good time to visit as the countryside is lush and green, but be prepared for occasional downpours and muddy roads.
Overall, the best time to visit Vientiane Province depends on your preferences and interests. If you prefer cooler temperatures and dry weather, then the cool and dry season is the best time to visit. However, if you don't mind some rain and want to see the countryside at its greenest, then the rainy season can also be a good time to visit.
What to Pack
- Clothing: Lightweight and breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen is recommended, especially during the hot and humid months. Pack t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses that cover your shoulders and knees, as this is considered respectful attire in Lao culture. Also, pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings during the dry season.
- Footwear: Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing or trekking. Sandals or flip-flops are also recommended for casual wear, but be aware that some sites may require you to remove your shoes before entering.
- Sun Protection: The sun in Laos can be strong, so pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun's rays. A lightweight scarf or shawl can also be useful for covering your face and neck from the sun.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem in Laos, especially during the rainy season. Pack insect repellent with DEET to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay.
- Rain Gear: If you're visiting during the rainy season, be prepared for occasional downpours. Pack a lightweight raincoat, poncho, or umbrella to keep yourself dry.
- Power Adapter: Laos uses Type A, B, and C electrical outlets, so bring a power adapter if your devices have a different plug type.
- Medications and First-aid Kit: Pack any medications you may need, as well as a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses. It's also a good idea to bring hand sanitizer or wipes to keep your hands clean when you're on the go.
- Cash and ATM Cards: Although some hotels and restaurants in Vientiane Province accept credit cards, cash is still the most commonly used form of payment. Bring enough cash to cover your expenses, and consider bringing both U.S. dollars and Lao kip. You can also withdraw money from ATMs, but be aware that some smaller towns and villages may not have ATMs or banks.
- Camera and Memory Cards: Vientiane Province has many beautiful sights and attractions, so bring a camera or smartphone with a good camera to capture your memories. Also, pack extra memory cards or storage to ensure you have enough space to store your photos and videos.
- Respectful Clothing for Temples and Religious Sites: If you plan to visit any temples or religious sites, be sure to pack clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Women should avoid wearing shorts or skirts that are too short, and men should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts. Scarves or shawls can also be useful for covering your shoulders or wrapping around your waist.
Currency
The official currency of Laos is the Lao kip (LAK). However, U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in many tourist areas and larger cities like Vientiane. It's a good idea to bring some U.S. dollars with you for emergencies or to exchange for Lao kip at banks or exchange counters.
It's important to note that outside of tourist areas, it can be difficult to use U.S. dollars or credit cards, so it's recommended to have some Lao kip on hand for daily expenses like food, transportation, and shopping. You can exchange your currency at banks or exchange counters, but be aware that exchange rates may vary and some places may charge fees or have limited hours of operation. ATMs are also available in larger cities but may not be available in smaller towns or rural areas.
Language
Vientiane Province is located in the central region of Laos, and it is the largest province in the country. The official language of Laos is Lao, which is spoken by the majority of the population in Vientiane Province, as well as throughout the country. However, there are also other languages spoken in the province, such as Tai Dam, Hmong, and Khmu.
Etiquette and Taboos
- Respect for Elders: Laos culture places a great deal of emphasis on respect for elders. It is important to address older people with the appropriate honorifics, such as "nai" or "pa," and to show deference to their opinions.
- Buddhist Traditions: Buddhism is the dominant religion in Laos, and it is important to show respect for Buddhist traditions. For example, it is customary to remove your shoes before entering a temple or someone's home.
- Dress Modestly: Laos is a conservative society, and it is important to dress modestly. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, and men should avoid going shirtless in public.
- Greeting Customs: When meeting someone in Laos, it is customary to bow your head slightly and bring your hands together in a prayer-like gesture called a "nop." This is a sign of respect and acknowledgment.
- Feet and Head: In Laos culture, the feet are considered the lowest part of the body, while the head is considered the highest. It is considered rude to point your feet at someone or something, or to touch someone's head.
- Food Etiquette: When eating in Laos, it is important to wait for the host to invite you to start eating. It is also considered impolite to waste food, so take only what you can eat.
- Taboos: In Laos culture, it is considered taboo to raise your voice, show anger or disrespect in public, or to discuss sensitive or personal topics. It is also important to avoid touching or patting someone's head, as it is considered disrespectful.
Hospitals
- Thoulakhom District Hospital
Thoulakhom District Hospital is located in the Thoulakhom district of Vientiane Province, Laos. It is a small hospital that provides basic healthcare services to the local population, including outpatient care, emergency services, and some inpatient care. The hospital has a small laboratory on-site for basic diagnostic tests, but more complex tests may need to be referred to larger medical facilities.
- Phonhong District Hospital
Phonhong District Hospital is located in the Phonhong district of Vientiane Province, Laos. It is a general hospital that provides basic healthcare services to the local population, including outpatient care, emergency services, and some inpatient care. The hospital has a laboratory on-site for basic diagnostic tests, and there is also a pharmacy available that provides basic medications.
- Hinheup District Hospital
Hinheup District Hospital is located in the Hinheup district of Vientiane Province, Laos. It is a small hospital that provides basic healthcare services to the local population, including outpatient care, emergency services, and some inpatient care. The hospital has a laboratory on-site for basic diagnostic tests, and there is also a pharmacy available that provides basic medications.
- Vang Vieng District Hospital
The Vang Vieng District Hospital is a small facility with basic medical services, including emergency care, outpatient clinics, and a small number of inpatient beds. The hospital is staffed by trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers, but they may not speak English, so it's a good idea to have a translator or someone who can speak Lao with you.
- Keo-Oudom District Hospital
Keo-Oudom District Hospital is located in the Keo-Oudom district of Vientiane Province, Laos. It is a small hospital that provides basic healthcare services to the local population, including outpatient care, emergency services, and some inpatient care. The hospital has a laboratory on-site for basic diagnostic tests, and there is also a pharmacy available that provides basic medications.
Educational Institutions
- Muang Phonhong Secondary School: This is a government-run school that provides education from grades 7 to 12.
- Muang Phonhong Primary School: Also a government-run school, this institution provides education from grades 1 to 6.
- Muang Phonhong Teacher Training College: This college is a higher education institution that provides training for aspiring teachers.
- Muang Phonhong Technical School: This is a vocational school that provides training in technical fields such as mechanics, electrical work, and construction.
