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Sports : One of the few sports available to visitors to
Laos is mountain biking, which is made more attractive by the relatively
small number of motor vehicles on the road. Though serious bikers
should bring their own, some bikes are available for hire in the
larger towns.
Wildlife : Though threatened by deforestation, the flora
and fauna of Laos is still abundant. Many rare and endangered species
- including primates, mammals and birds inhabit the densely forested
regions of the north and north east, while the Mekong River is home
to freshwater dolphins and giant catfish. Unexploded bombs and mines
left over from the Second Indochina War make the services of a professional
guide essential.
Eating : Lao cuisine is very similar to its Thai neighbour's,
and meals of spicy soup, sticky rice and chicken or laab are favourites
with locals. Vientiane is serviced by several good French restaurants,
a remnant of the country's colonial era, as are the baguettes and
croissants are also widely available.
Drinking : Though tap water should be avoided, boiled water
in thermos bottles is widely available, as are safe bottled mineral
water and soft drinks. Beer Lao - the tasty and strong (5% alcohol)
local brew - comes in either 300ml or 600ml bottles or in 2 litre
jugs. The local rice whisky, Lao, Lao is a great favourite among
the Lao people.
The central markets in Vientiane and Luang Prabang both offer a
wide range of souvenirs, as do many of the cities' shops. However,
while the majority of private shops have fixed prices, in the markets
the art of bargaining still rules
Weaving : The art of weaving is still very much a home industry
in Laos, where some of the finest silk and cotton weavers in the
world can be found in the smallest of communities. Traditional designs
and patterns vary from province to province, and the intricate work
can be purchased much cheaper at the source than from many handicraft
stores, markets and hotel shops. Antique woven pieces are still
available but are becoming increasingly rare, often fetching very
high prices.
Carving : From the simple and mundane, to the aesthetic
and highly spiritual, Lao craftsmen can carve a wide variety of
attractive pieces from wood, bone and stone.
Jewellery : The crafting of gold and silver jewelry is another
skill at which the Lao people excel. Many of the best examples of
silver jewelry to be found in the country are the work of several
of the hilltribes. However, it should be noted that some silver
and copper items exported from Laos are subject to tax according
to weight. Gemstones, such as sapphires, can also be found at reasonable
prices.
Artifacts : The export of antiques, such as Buddha images
and other artifacts, is prohibited. Any antique items that have
been purchased in another country must be declared to customs on
arrival in Laos.
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