Lao's history could be traced to the Kingdom of Lan Xang from 1354 to 1707, a golden period of history. It was invaded by Siam, Vietnam and France later and became the French colony in 1893. After a series of wars, it was independent in 1945 and established the republic in 1975 with the abolition of monarchy. In the Royal Palace Museum in Luang Prabang, the former imperial palace, the remains of Kingdom of Lan Xang can be watched.

Laos is a Buddhist country. The prosperity of Buddhism makes the numerous temples spring up. Temples become a part of its culture. Wat Ho Phra Keo, Wat Xieng Thong, Wat That Luang are the famous temples. Luang Prabang, the center of Buddhism and UNESCO World Heritage site, is just like a book of the country's Buddhism history, where tourists can feel the power of faith.

When you visit Laos, enjoying the leisure and laidback life in cities and appreciating the natural beauty are very important. Rolling hills and lush forests are common in the country, which will glut your eyes. Laos has a reputation of "Capital of Elephant", where you can have a close contact with the big animals. Most of the Lao believe in Buddhism hence Buddhist architecture is also a feature of the state. In Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), tourists can enjoy the glorious sunrise and sunset. Some adventurous projects, outdoor activities and water sports are also available.

In Laos, 80% of the land is mountain land and plateau with forests covered. Its north is bordered by Western Yunnan Plateau in China, the east is plateau formed by Annamite Range, and the west are basins and small pieces of plains along the Mekong River and its tributaries, therefore the north is higher than the south. The forest vegetation coverage is high, which can conserve the water resources well. With special topography and abundant water, waterfall is easy to be formed, which become a big attraction.

Generally November to March is the best time to visit Laos for holidays, as the weather is the most comfortable in a year with mild temperature and little rain. With tropical monsoon climate, the temperature is high whether it is in the rainy season or the dry season. May to October is the rainy season with hot and humid weather, which is not convenient for visitors. April is the hottest time there, so it is advisable that you avoid planning your Laos tours during this month.

Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, where highway, inland water and air transport dominate the transportation system. It has only three international airports respectively in Luang Prabang, Vientiane, and Pakse, operating flights to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and Singapore. There is only a 3-kilometer railway from Vientiane to Lao-Thai border. Thus buses are the most convenient and affordable vehicles. Bicycles and tuktuks like taxis are also good choices.

For a tourist, travel plan is very necessary. You should apply to the Laos Embassy for visa firstly and then destinations need to be chosen with affordable hotels and other convenient conditions. As the saying goes, "Do in Rome as Rome does", therefore, you should try to do as the Lao do when visiting the country. It is quite important to respect the local culture and custom, and you will earn its respect in turn. It is a taboo to touch the head of the local people, because they regard the head as the holiest part. If you plan a Laos vacation package in rainy season, umbrella and waterproof clothes are necessary, so is the mosquito repellent.