Culture

Laos Bans Money Bouquets, Crafts Made From Kip Banknotes

Laos has banned the production, sale, and advertising of crafts made from kip banknotes, including money bouquets and decorative money trees, under a new directive issued by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce on 22 October. The directive targets products made by folding, gluing, stapling, or otherwise incorporating banknotes into...

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...

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...

Xayaboury Confirms Elephant Festival on 18-24 February

Xayaboury authorities have confirmed the 2025 Elephant Festival on 18 to 24 February, celebrating Laos’ culture with parades of elephants, traditional rituals, and vibrant...

Echoes of Celebration: China New Year Comes Alive in Laos

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, has long been celebrated not only in China but also across Southeast Asia. Laos is...

Xayaboury Readies to Host Masked Ghosts Festival

Xayaboury Province is set to host the traditional Phi Ta Khon Festival– or Masked Ghost Festival, from 5 to 12 February at Sibounhueng Temple...

Laos-China Railway Expands Services for Chinese New Year Travelers

With the Chinese New Year approaching, the Laos-China Railway has rolled out special measures at the Bohan Railway Border, including expanded counter services and...

Xam Tai District’s Silk Tapestries Set to Achieve ODOP Status

Traditional silk tapestries from Xam Tai district in Houaphanh Province will soon be recognized as official One District One Product (ODOP), aiming to preserve...

Lao Art Museum Draws Praise, Criticism Over Entry Fee, Construction Delays

The new Lao Art Museum officially opened on 5 January in Vientiane’s Nonsaart village, Xaythany district.  Construction of the Museum began in 2021 with a...