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Advisory: Laos is a lovely place for visitors to the region. Gays are becoming quite visible within Lao society and gay business entrepreneurs and managers are setting the trend with stylish boutique operations that compliment the diversity of local cultures. However, the government is not going to allow a sex industry to emerge publicly as it has in neighboring countries. The Lao are moderate in their behavior and while it's natural for friends to casually hug or hold hands, public displays of romantic affection are against the norm. Novice monks, while less formal in their interpersonal relationships than in Thailand, are still to be accorded proper respect. Please respect local laws and customs during your travels in Laos. Harsh penalties, including fines and imprisonment, have in the past been imposed on Lao citizens who were seen to breach the social norm or become inappropriately intimate with foreigners.

We'll tell you a secret. Laos is a don't-miss destination that most travelers to Asia skip simply because they haven't a clue about the wealth of beauty and tradition waiting to be discovered here. Spectacular landscapes that would have thrilled Ansel Adams abound; traditional life that has long-vanished from other parts of Asia continues here with refreshing vitality; friendly, law-abiding citizens wear handsome faces that reflect the converging streams of cultures and ethnicities that flow along the mighty mother river Mekong; costumes, cuisine, gardens and homes are a color-splashed feast for the senses. Laos has a very young population, so we expect its refreshing vibrancy to blossom further as the new generation gains confidence and freedom.

Don't travel to Laos expecting to find a sophisticated gay scene. Instead, enjoy the gentle and familial tolerance towards local gays who have begun to stand out and contribute their talents to trendy cafés, pubs, boutique hotels, galleries, restaurants and craft shops popping up in the two main cities.

• Laos Gay & Lesbian News
• Laos Gay Scene Updates message forum
• Men in Laos message forum
• Travel in Laos message forum
• Additional Links and Resources

• AIDS/HIV organizations and information

Dondet Islands

Click here for Dondet hotels and accommodations.

• River Garden (Asian and western)
  (856-20) 770-1860, email. Gay-friendly restaurant and guesthouse offering a mix of Lao, Thai and European food, plus great fresh fruit shakes. The restaurant is a brilliant spot to view the sunrise. Friendly owner, Mr. Aek, will tell you stories about the local people.

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LUANG PRABANG -- area code (856-71)

Click here for Luang Prabang listings.

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Vangvieng -- area code (856-23)

Click here for Vangvieng hotels and accommodations.

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VIENTIANE -- area code (856-21)

Click here for Vientiane listings.

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