Laos is perhaps one of the world’s least traveled countries. Meaning? It is a land so untouched by the outside world that the word exotic rings true here. Laos is a land where beautiful natural scenes dominate, guaranteeing a true natural and tropical wonderland. It is a country where its lifestyles remain intact, despite today’s rapidly changing and modern world. The country is a land with a unique and beautiful culture, presented in its original grandeur. However, Laos also needs some help. Make a positive impact while on holiday, put a smile on some faces and help preserve some of the country’s natural beauties.

Be a Luang Prabang citizen the moment you enter this marvelous city. Revel in the UNESCO Heritage Town’s temples, colonial flair, tree-lined boulevards and cleanliness. Head to the riverside temple of Wat Prabat Tai for a sunset game of petanque with the locals, one of their favorite pastimes.

The town is best explored by bike, and that is exactly what you will be doing. And not just a regular bike, an electric-bike will be used, an eco-friendly and fun way to see the city’s main sites as well as some hidden areas. You’ll also visit non-profit organizations such as the Traditional Arts & Ethnology Center and Ock Pop Tock and get a taste of local life with a visit to the Phousy Market and a traditional Lao lunch.

Immerse yourself in the local culture today by partaking in the early morning Buddhist alms procession and an evening Animist and Pre-Buddhist Baci ceremony. You’ll definitely learn about the country’s culture and religion via these enlightening and interesting cultural events.

Let that magical Laos nature enthrall you, and there’s no better place to do that than at Kuang Si Falls. Swim in its cool pools, take a refreshing trek around the waterfall or enjoy a picnic lunch nearby. While here, visit a rescue center for sunbears where you will learn more about efforts to preserve this unique animal.

Pak Ou Caves is certainly a place you have never experienced before. This cave is filled with thousands of lacquered and gold Buddha images, placed here by the religion’s followers throughout the years.

Later on, help out some children at a local village. How? You will donate some Lao-language books to the underprivileged kids there. Your action will ensure a brighter future for these children and the warm and appreciative smiles of the villagers will leave you with fond memories of your responsible holiday in Laos.

If you have a big heart and would like to make a difference while on holiday in Southeast Asia, then take a look at our responsible travel tours. Working with local charities, we’ll also showcase the beauty of the region, from a culturally and naturally standpoint. Southeast Asia will have a special place in your heart, that’s for sure.

www.exotravel.com/