Gap Year in Laos
Laos is often the forgotten jewel of Southeast Asia. Landlocked on the Indochina peninsula, it's nestled between Burma, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Incredible landscapes like the northern highlands, the mighty Mekong River, and the 4 Thousand Islands will not disappoint. That combined with the friendly hospitality of Laotian people makes it a great destination for a gap year.
Volunteering
Laos being the poorest South East Asian country is full of volunteering opportunities. One of the most popular volunteer organizations is The Big Brother Mouse, a Lao organization publishing books for local children in both English and Lao aiming at reducing illiteracy. You can either join them on their mission to deliver books to kids in the most remote places in Laos or contribute by buying sets of books if you’re unable to trek the hills with them. There are also a lot of options available in teaching children and novice monks. You can also get involved in helping Lao people develop their infrastructure by applying for a construction site volunteering placement. You can also contribute to local communities recovering post UXO (unexploded ordnance) clearance that involve donations towards education, re-training and farming resources in local communities.
Gap Year Travel
Laos is often described as forgotten. Often the one, that is missed out of the Indochina Loop. Unless you do your research, it seem less appealing, land locked, with no islands and beaches to laze around on. Think twice though! You may regret missing it on your South East Asian adventures. Laos is a gem! The landscapes and people are what make it one of the most incredible places to slow down and take it easy, enjoying the incredible views in the northern highlands, the beauty of the Mekong River and the mystery of the Plain of Jars. You may want to consider the ever so popular home stays to experience first hand what it is like to live a Lao life, under the roof of a local family’s house. Make sure not to miss out on the night markets both in Vientiane and Luang Prabang. You’ll love the atmosphere and are sure to find the perfect gifts for those at home waiting impatiently for your next email.
Adventure Travel
In Laos, those seeking the thrill of adrenaline are sure to find what they’re looking for! Anywhere you go, from Si Phan Don to Huang Xai you’ll be able to find an excitement inducing adventure. From elephant trekking and mountain hiking to kayaking and biking through the Lao countryside. You can’t forget the amazing limestone caves and the famous Gibbon Experience – a zip line canopy tour. Be careful though as it may be quite dangerous if you decide to do it in the wet season. The infamous Vang Vieng tubing is also worth a mention here. Whether you do it or not, you’ll definitely hear about people getting severely intoxicated and floating down the river in massive inner tubes. Make sure you catch the last ride home though as you’ll not only lose your deposit but may also have quite a long walk back home ahead of you!
Visas
Most nationals are required to obtain a tourist visa before entering Lao PDR. This can be done either through prior application at a Lao embassy or consulate or in most cases on arrival, either by air (Luang Prabang, Pakse, and Vientiane) or overland.
Prices vary depending on nationality. There are several ‘visa services’ agencies operating in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam that may populate incorrect information as to whether it is possible to apply for a Lao visa on arrival or not in order to make a profit, usually charging a substantially higher amount for their services.
When you apply for a visa on arrival, there may be a small extra charge applied for ‘having your passport stamped’ or ‘the privilege of not having to provide a passport-sized photograph’ so be prepared for that. The fee is usually no more than $1.
Citizens of Russia, Korea, Japan, Switzerland, and ASEAN nationals (Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore) are exempt and do not require a tourist visa.
