Thailand has always been a popular destination for outbound travel.

After the epidemic, Thailand’s tourism ushered in a small peak. Recently, prices in Thailand have risen, and netizens have said that they can no longer afford to go there.

If you want to experience Southeast Asia, you don’t have to go to Thailand. With the opening of the China-Laos Railway, a more cost-effective travel destination has emerged. This slow-paced small country is directly accessible by train, and the scenery is not inferior to Chiang Mai. This is Laos.

Laos is an underrated vacation paradise in Southeast Asia. It has a primitive ecology, not many high-rise buildings, no crowded tourists and excessive commercialization. It is suitable for leisurely strolling in a daze, and the food, accommodation, transportation and attractions are cheap. Tickets are only a quarter of the domestic price. The RMB is currently appreciating against the Lao currency. Traveling to Laos allows you to enjoy more food and services.

1. How to get to Laos?

The China-Laos Railway was opened at the end of last year. Currently, there are 25 trains from Kunming or Kunming south to Xishuangbanna every day from 7 am to 7 pm, and it takes 3-4 hours to arrive. Take the high-speed train to Mohan Station, then exit customs at Mohan Port, buy a ticket at Boten High-speed Railway Station in Laos and take the train to Laos.

Starting from January 12 this year, there will be two trains running from Boten High-speed Railway Station in Laos to Vientiane every day. One is the C81 train, which departs at 12:15 and takes 3.5 hours to Vientiane. One is the K11 regular bus, which departs at 2 p.m. and takes 5 hours to Vientiane.

2. How to play in Laos?

The most worthwhile places to visit in Laos are Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng and the capital Vientiane. These three places are the main stations of the China-Laos Railway and the most popular tourist destinations in Laos.

Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang was founded in 1353. It is a famous ancient capital and Buddhist center in Laos. The capitals of many dynasties in Laos were located here. Luang Prabang has also entered the history of Laos. There are many temples and pagodas here, there are many places of interest and historical sites, and it has magical cultural heritage. It is a world "natural and cultural" dual heritage city.

This is a very quiet and literary town. There is not much commercial atmosphere here. It is far away from the hustle and bustle of the world and is full of peaceful and charming atmosphere. It touches the hearts of everyone here. Relaxation is a place where people don’t want to leave once they come. If you like the style of Chiang Mai, you will definitely like this small town even more.

Xiangthong Temple

This is the most famous temple in Luang Prabang. It was built in 1560. It means "House of the King" in Laotian, which shows its status. Noble. Its architecture is magnificent, exquisite and beautiful, the pagoda is exquisitely carved, and the back wall is inlaid with colorful tree of life patterns using various colored glass, which shines under the sunlight and is shocking. Tickets cost 20,000 old coins (8 yuan).