Laos, officially known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), is one of the poorest nations in South-East Asia. A mountainous and landlocked country, Laos shares borders with Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, Thailand to the west, and Myanmar and China to the north. Traversed by the Mekong River and known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements and Buddhist monasteries. Vientiane, the laid-back capital, is the site of That Luang, a reliquary reportedly housing the Buddha’s breastbone, plus the Patuxai war memorial and Talat Sao (Morning Market), a shopping complex jammed with food, clothes and craft stalls.
Malaria – Transmission occurs throughout the year. Chemoprophylaxis is recommended for certain areas.
Traveller’s Diarrhoea – High risk exists throughout the country, including in deluxe accommodations. Food and beverage precautions are essential to reduce the likelihood of illness.
A Gastro Kit can be purchased from Travel Vaccination Health care, which includes prescription and non-prescription medications for presumptive self-treatment if diarrhoea occurs.