Basics
Sockets & plugs
Laos uses 230V, 50Hz with sockets and plugs Type A, Type B, Type C, Type E and Type F.
Read more
Money
Currency
Laos uses the Lao kip (symbol: ₭), code LAK.
Banknotes come in denominations of 100000, 50000, 20000, 10000, 5000, 2000, 1000, 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 kips. Kip is subdivided into 100 atts. Coins come in denominations of 50, 20 and 10 atts.
Tipping
Tipping is usually not expected in Laos. However, if you are satisfied with the service provided you can show your appreciation by leaving a small ‘extra’ tip.
ATMs
Automatic teller machines (local names: ເອທີເອັມ or ATM) are rare in Laos. Your best bet is to look for them in large cities and community places.
You do not need a chip & PIN card to use an ATM — your standard magnetic card will work fine.
Communications
Internet
Internet speed in Laos is on average 2.4 Mbps which is 25% slower than in Maldives (3.2 Mbps).
WiFi coverage in Laos is very low. It's quite hard to find one.
Mobile phone
Laos uses similar GSM mobile networks (GSM 900 and GSM 1800) as Maldives so you should be able to normally use your mobile phone.
If you don't want to buy SIM card in Laos upon arrival, make sure to check the roaming charges with your telecom provider before your departure so there are no surprises when you return home.
Dial code
To call Laos from Maldives, dial + or 00 (exit code for Maldives), then 856 (the country code for Laos), then the area code (without the initial 0) and the local number.
For local calls within Laos, start with the area code (with the initial 0). In the case above area code is 21 .
Health & safety
LGBTIQ+
Homosexuality is legal in Laos.
Same-sex marriage is not recognized.
Vaccinations
The following vaccinations listed for this country are recommended for your protection and to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
These apply only to select travelers or persons on work assignments.
Travel advisories
Alerts are issued for short-term events we think you should know about when planning travel to a country.
