Feature

Lao, Thai Textile Traditions Meet in Dress at Bangkok Exhibition

A gown combining Thai silk and Lao fabric brought two neighbouring countries' textile traditions together at an international fashion exhibition in Bangkok in October. Titled Lao-Thai Solidarity, the dress featured traditional Lao weaving patterns alongside Thai silk, with each material making up half of the design. Lao designer Khamphao Bouaphanh, founder...

Laos Turns to Community Support as Young People Face Rising Mental Health Pressures

Mental health challenges often go unnoticed in Laos, where people experiencing anxiety and emotional...

Lao Scholar Draws on History to Explore What Makes a Country ‘Great’

In many Lao communities, temples are among the cleanest places around. People sweep the...

The Photographer Who Speaks for Laos’ Forests

In the forests of Laos, observation comes before words for Souksamlan “Toun” Laladeth. That idea...

Deported to Laos, US Returnees Find Their Way in an Unfamiliar Home

The men behind a barbecue grill in Vientiane speak English more easily than Lao. Some...

Lao Villages Fall Victim to Chinese Human Trafficking

It is not uncommon to see reports on human trafficking in the news. We read stories about it happening even in the most powerful...

Laos Places 3rd On World’s Friendliest Countries List

London-based Rough Guides has turned to its Twitter and Facebook followers to ask for their opinion on the world's friendliest countries. Why do we...

Villa Opera: Homely High-end Italian in Vientiane

I have found a quiet bit of Italy in Vientiane where the homemade pasta is bellissimo. After the closure of the Italian restaurant L’Opera, near...

Laos Keeps a Close Eye on Corruption

  Laos has found international recognition recently for a number of positive advances, however  some reports have painted a picture of rife corruption among the...

The Xaysana Case: What We Know So Far

The Xaysana drug ring is currently one of the hottest topics in Southeast Asia. Regional social media is aflame with updates on Xaysana Keophimpa,...

Lao Telecom to Increase Investment for Improved Services and Market Growth

Lao Telecommunications Company (LTC) expects to see expansion of its network and telecommunications systems this year in an effort to improve services and gain...