South East Asian Trips

Crime levels are low in Laos, although petty theft is not unknown. Lao judicial processes remain somewhat arbitrary and, while you are unlikely to be hassled, if accused your legal rights may be slim or non-existent. Two points in particular to beware of. Sexual relations between a Lao national and a foreigner are illegal unless they are married, and marriage requires special permits. "Number One" condoms are probably the cheapest condoms in the world (and their quality seems to be ok). Drug use in Laos will result in heavy fines and expulsion at best, and imprisonment or even execution at worst. In the eastern parts of the country near the Vietnamese border, unexploded ordnance is a risk factor. Be careful if you leave the roads in this area and never ever touch anything that may be a grenade or other explosive, even if it seems old and harmless. One other note of caution: there has been some violence between Hmong rebel groups in the north against the main Laos government. This low-level insurgency has been brewing for years, and has been very sporadic. The main areas affected have been on Highway 13 (which runs from Luang Prabang to Cambodia, passing through Pakse and Vientiane). The last reported case was in 2003 around Kasi. Attacks have been on regular buses, not tourist buses. VIP and minibuses passing through these areas typically travel with an armed guard (with a machine gun!). If in doubt, ask fellow travelers in Luang Prabang about the current situation. Between 2003 and 2006 the primary forest in this area has disapeared - hiding would be difficult for snipers now. Laos is considered very malarial so anti-malarials are recommended. The usual precautions regarding food and water are wise. Bottled water is widely available.