Dos and Don'ts in Laos (Part 1)

For such a small country, Laos is surprising in term of its diversified culture. There are some brief tips of dos and don’ts when traveling to Laos. Note in your Laos Travel guide.

In this first part, we will give you 6 things you should DO 

credit: travelfish.org

1. Say ““sabai-dee” for greeting

The standard greeting way of Laotians is “sabai-dee” said with a smile, which means “how are you?” or “hello”. The “Nop”, the most formal gesture in greeting, (raising one’s hands together in the praying gesture at chest level), is also an expression of thanks or saying goodbye. The higher positions of your hands are, the higher degree of respect you show. Handshakes are widely used among male friends or with foreigner travelers.

Moreover, it is very courteous if you address properly the Laos by first name, for example Mr. or Mrs. In a close relationship, Mr. Uncle or Ms. Ant is acceptable. By this way, you must be welcomed warmly.

2. Speak with soft tones
  Laos people are affable and hospitable. They want to avoid argument in conservation by speaking with gentle tones.  So, you may find it hard to interact with locals. If things don’t work as your expectations, don’t become bad-temper or raise your voice, it makes you terrible in this country. Try to listen to and talk gently and discreetly. Sometimes, in other country, a loud voice can makes a strict force. However, in Laos, it is commonly considered as the threatening. Thus, keeping a cool communication encourages you to discover more about this Buddhist country.

3. Ask before taking photos

When visiting temples, all travelers want to keep the best moments by taking photos. But don’t photograph of anyone and anything without permission in Laos. It will be in trouble if you take photos of praying person. In Laos, follow this rule or you won’t be well-respected.

credit: ecotourismlaos.com

4. Take off your shoes when entering Laos’ houses or temples

Leave your shoes at the stair before entering the Laos traditional houses. They also expect you to be in a neat and tidy look. In temples, pagodas or chapels, wearing short skirts, short pants, sleeve skirts for women are viewed as inappropriate, but can be tolerated from foreigners. In some temples, women in pants or short skirts are required to put on a Laos skirt layers before entering the chapel.  You can wear shoes when walking around temples or pagodas, but don’t forget to set it off and lower your knees before entering these sacred places.

Take off your shoes before entering Laos temples or houses

5. Keep a low profile

Laos people don’t really care whoever you are, whatever your job is. Keep a low personal profile and you’ll maximize your chances of social understandings. “Your head is high, your feet is low”. In Laos’ conception, using your feet anything rather than playing sport or walking, never indicate or touch another by your feet. It is extremely rude to place your feet on tables or chairs when talking or eating, because it means you don’t respect the people you are talking to. Additionally, don’t touch any statues in temples without allowance.

6. Buy a new handicraft instead of purchasing sacred items

Normally, coming anywhere, you also want to buy the notable items as a gift for friends or families. However, please do not try to buy any unique Buddha objects when visiting Laos.  It is being preserved together with the long-last heritage of Laos culture. Instead, purchasing the new and quality handicrafts is highly appreciated to support the local craftsmen. Your journey to Laos is more interesting thanks to not only the extraordinary feelings but also the meaningful activities like that.