Dos and Don'ts When Traveling in Laos (Part 2)

Dos and don’ts when traveling to Laos is necessary for you visitors, no matter it is the first time or not.

Don’t forget things you should AVOID:

1. Kiss and hug in public

For westerners, it is common to kiss or hug when greeting.  For Asian countries, especially in Laos, physical gestures such as kissing or hugging in public are impolite ways to lose face anytime. Be discreet and respect Laos customs, you are always welcomed friendly.

2. Touch someone’s head

Bear in mind that Laos people always believe that the head as the most important sacred parts of the body. Thus, touching someone’s head is a very strong violation to Laos etiquette. If you don’t want to alienate yourself, avoid doing this. In addition, adults touching children’s head when fondling a beloved child is a solicitous gesture. 

credit: laosecotourism.com

3. Touch a monk

Laos customs are sometimes related to the Buddhist beliefs. Monks are respected in Laos. They are very open to talk with travelers and like practicing English with foreigners.  In this effusive atmosphere, don’t forget to greet monks by a “Nop” with lower knees and don’t touch monks or monk robes. Don’t point upward Buddhist statues by your fingers. It is disrespectful apparel in this scared place. You always keep your head lower than priests in the temples to express your adherence.  When giving something to the monks or novices, these objects should be put next to the table or passed to laymen, who then hand it to the monk.

4. Buy wildlife products

Be a responsible visitor in protecting the endangered species by saying no to illegal wildlife products, even buying souvenirs made from them, such as elephant’s tusk. Highly appreciating the importance of steady tourist system, the Laos government takes some steps to balance between developing tourist as well as preserving the pristine nature. If there is over-exploitation and the wildlife is disappeared, both the local environment and tourist industry will eventually break down. 

Say no to wildlife products
credit: globalvoicesonline.org/

5. Distribute gifts to children arbitrarily

Distribute gift to children is always highly appreciated in any country. But you should careful of how to give and what to present. Delivering gifts to children or money to a poor family encourages more and more begging in Laos society. It is better if you make donations to established organizations or villager chief. Besides money, the foods, used clothes or books, necessary materials for them to live and study, are recommended as a worth present. You can ask your guides to find the best way to donate. When giving presents to someone, you should use two hands or right hands as the left hand is associated with toilet duties.

Books, a gift, also your heart to children  
Credit-unicef.org.nz

Overall, don’t worry too much about doing something wrong since there are no strict rules today for foreigners. On the other hand, please don’t be careless either. These guides of dos and don’ts when traveling to Laos acclimate with the traditional customs of the Laotians and daily life.