Culture

The Photographer Who Speaks for Laos’ Forests

In the forests of Laos, observation comes before words for Souksamlan “Toun” Laladeth. That idea inspired the title of his debut visual anthology, Where the Forests Have No Words, officially launched on 5 October in Vientiane*.* "People call me a conservation and nature photographer. But really, I'm just a simple person,...

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...

Khammouane Targets UNESCO Geopark Status to Boost Tourism

Khammouane is preparing a UNESCO bid for the Hinboun Geopark, hoping the international designation...

Vientiane Shuts Down KM38 Dharma Practice Center After Leader Defies Order Over Reborn Buddha Claim

On 24 September, Vientiane authorities shut down the KM38 Dharma Practice Center in Sangsai...

OP-ED: Cluster Bombs Still Threaten Lao Farmers Decades After War

By Eli Mechanic, Country Director for MAG Laos (Mines Advisory Group) In the early hours...

Lao-American Rapper Hopii Turns Blessings into Bars

When “Sa Tu”, or "Sathu," is not only heard in the temple but echoed through pop rap music, it takes on new meaning. For Hope...

Splashing into the New Year: A Brief Story Behind Pi Mai Lao

Every April, when the weather hits its peak and the heat sets in, the streets of Laos fill with people, celebration, and plenty of...

Built with Heart: The Team Behind Luang Prabang’s Pi Mai Parade Tiger

Luang Prabang celebrated Pi Mai Lao, or Lao New Year, with its traditional Nang Sangkhan Procession. Central to the event is Miss Lao New...

No Ong Luang Buddha Procession for Lao New Year 2025 in Vientiane, Governor Confirms

The Governor of Chanthabouly District, Vientiane, has announced that the traditional Ong Luang Buddha statue procession along Setthathilath Road will not take place during...

Swiss Artists Sophie de Quay Celebrate Music, Francophonie in Vientiane

Swiss duo Sophie de Quay and Simon Jaccard performed at Vientiane's Blues Box on the evening of 8 April. The concert, which also featured...

Three Cultural Treasures of Savannakhet Earn National Heritage Status

On 30 March, the governor of Savannakhet Province officially recognized three cultural treasures in the province as national heritage sites: Hor Tai Pee Dok...