Bordered by Thailand, Myanmar, China, Vietnam and Cambodia, the former French Protectorate of Laos is a bustling hot pot of all these cultures. Flanked by the Mekong River and the Annamite mountains, Laos still retains its old colonial flavour. In capital, Vientiane, French colonial houses rub shoulders with ancient Buddhist temples and French baked bread with mixed noodles.

The pace is relaxed and easy in Laos and there’s plenty to explore. The 16th century royal stupa, the limestone Pak Ou Caves with its numerous Buddhas, Luang Prabang from Mount Phousi, the Kuang Si waterfalls, the silk weaves of Ban Phanom village along with a Mekong river cruise or a trek down the risky Ho Chi Minh trail will make your holiday in Laos truly memorable.