Culture

Do's and Don'ts in Laos

Show respect and use your head and eyes and common sense will guide you well in navigating Lao culture safely.

When in Laos , try and do as the as the Lao do, and remember; don't touch heads, don't lose your cool with people and don't flash your flesh. The rest is about manners, shoes left outside, accepting hosts' greetings and not upsetting religious feelings.

The Lao are very friendly and hospitable and a minimum effort will make your trip smooth and memorable.
Respect the culture and you will earn its respect in turn.

Welcome
A kiss or embrace from a stranger is insulting and humiliating. Traditionally, Lao people use the 'NOP' on meeting and using it will win you instant friends if performed sincerely.

How to use the 'NOP'?
Raise your hands in a praying gesture. The higher you go, the more respect you show, but don't be over the top! A handshake will suffice, but try to use the Lao greeting of 'Sabai Dee'.

Foot and Head
Don't gesture with your feet or touch an Asian head. You would be asking for trouble.
Here, as in all things, check out what local people do with their feet and shoes and try to follow suit.

In Buddhism and general Asian society, the head is very important to the souls and its purity, while the feet walk the earth and all that is deposited on it. Raising your feet to headheight, putting them on furniture or pointing with them is taken as a deliberate insult or sign of barbarism.

Feelings in public
Public displays of affection are taboo in Lao society, so don't cause shock or embarrassment by kissing or cuddling in front of people. Modest dress and discreet behaviour will ensure you don't attract unwanted attention or embarrass others.

Drug
The penalties may be severe for you and even worse for the Lao society. Do not use illegal substances. As in most countries in the region, the consequences if you are caught are very severe.

Shouting
Never raise your voice to Lao people as they never react well to it. Even shouting to friends or for taxis will cause shock and worry.
Lao is a land of calm and patience, and shattering the peace will do you no favours.

Bodily hygiene and cleanliness are of the highest standard in Lao and a visitor's failure to meet these standards is not well received. Wash yourself and your clothes daily or prepare to be laughed at and avoided!

And finally.....keep smiling and smiling, you will get lots of friends