Laos: the Uncut Gem in Southeast Asia

Sandwiched among Vietnam, Thailand, China, Cambodia, and Myanmar, Laos is a country that often seems to be overshadowed by its neighbours. However, as hidden as it may seem in the map of Asia, the beauty of Laos shines through its rugged landscape if you are willing to dig deeper: it is a country with the wildest natural scenery. Just think of crystal-blue waterfalls, night markets with steaming coconut pancakes, and so much more with its lovely people.

The first time I saw images of the Waterfalls, I thought it was simply the filter. It was not. The turquoise water set against the lush greenery under the gleaming sun was real. The climate was not too hot, but just warm enough to tempt you into diving into the coolness of the pool. And in fact, you can. Unlike most natural wonders in the world that only become beautiful when under protection, here at Kuang Si, as long as you have your swimsuit, you are most welcome to swim in the glittering liquid. What a treat!

As a country neighbouring 5 other nations and owning a history of French colonisation, the cuisine of Laos is a cuisine of many. You may enjoy a khao jee pâté, a French baguette sandwich stuffed with delicious Lao sausage and pork liver paste, just around the street corner, while having a generous serving of Thai mango sticky rice in the Luang Prabang night market, where the rice is extra sticky– since we’re in the land of the highest sticky rice consumption in the world.