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...

Virtual Reality and Drones Could Unlock Secrets of Mysterious Plain of Jars in Laos

Ancient, monumental sandstone jars up to two-and-a-half metres high dot the landscape in central Laos in seemingly random patterns — what was their purpose?...

Hainan Airlines to Start Two Flights to Laos

Hainan Airlines plans to launch two new services from Haikou to Laos in the near future, aiming to boost travel and economic exchanges between...

Laos Seeks US Counterweight to Chinese Dependence

BANGKOK -- Laos' new government is making a delicate diplomatic pivot away from huge neighbor China, its chief source of investment, and toward faraway...

Laos Orders Factory to Stop Recycling Spent Beer Malt Over Pollution Concerns

The Lao government ordered a factory in the capital Vientiane that recycles 80 tons of spent beer malt a day to shut down after...

Analyst: Thai King Death Affects Regional Casino Business

The death, announced on Thursday, of Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej (pictured) creates “near- and long-term” considerations in relation to the regional casino gaming industry,...

Boun Awk Phansa, Lai Hua Fai Festival in Vientiane

The Lao PDR has a unique tradition related to its faith. The beautiful festival, Awk Phansa Lai Hua Fai, is held on the day...