Lao culture is a bit conservative, easygoing, and family and friend centered. The name of the game is enjoyment and ease of life. While some parts of the culture might seem counter-intuitive to the western mind, these tips will help you navigate the sabai, sabai Lao life.
What are some traditions of Laos?
11 Lao Animist Traditions
- Boun Bang Fai. Boun Bang Fai or the Rocket Festival takes place during the hot season in the sixth lunar month. …
- Baci Ceremony. …
- Spirit Houses. …
- Government Crack Down. …
- Mixed with Buddhism.
Are people in Laos friendly?
Friendliness. People smile in Laos. … Lao people greet each other, be it friends or strangers, with a warm “Sabaidee!” and a wave or nop (sight bow with the hands pressed together at the chest.) The friendliness is extended to foreigners and travelers will feel very welcome in the Lao PDR.
What is considered rude in Laos?
Touching or showing affection in public will embarass your host. 2. In Laos your head is ‘high’, your feet ‘low’, using your feet for anything other than walking or playing sports is generally considered rude. Do not point with your feet/toes and do not have your feet raised/or propped up on tables.
What are the gender roles in Laos?
Regarding legal rights, women and men are considered equal. However, apart from age, gender is often the primary way social roles and practices are organised. Moreover, many families in Laos are involved in farming. In turn, family members will work the land together, often with a division of labour by gender.
What do you call people from Laos?
The correct term for people that live in Laos is ‘Laotian‘. The term ‘indigenous peoples’ is not used by the Laotian government. Instead, they refer to non-Lao people as ‘ethnic minorities’.
Is Laos dangerous for tourists?
Laos is a relatively safe country for travellers, although certain areas remain off-limits because of unexploded ordnance left over from decades of warfare. … As tranquil as Laos can seem, petty theft and serious crimes do happen throughout the country – even on seemingly deserted country roads.
How do people behave in Laos?
Never step over food or people. The feet are seen as being dirty while the head is sacred. Don’t pat people on the head, even if it is meant as a gesture of affection. The traditional greeting is called the “nop” or “wai,” and if you can master it you will be considered very polite.
What are the do’s and don’ts in Laos?
Here is more info on cultural Dos and Don’ts in Laos. Be mindful of Laos’ conservative culture. Dress conservatively – tank tops and bikinis are not appropriate attire to wear in villages or in town. Avoid overt public displays of affection and foul language.
How do people dress in Laos?
Lightweight and loose-fitting clothes are the best all-round option in Laos, including cottons and linens to combat the humidity. Laos is not a very dressy place unless you are living the high life in Vientiane or Luang Prabang, so smart clothes are not really a necessity.