Security Mines and Munitions Xieng Khouang province (the Plain of Jars), the Bolaven Plateau and areas along the Ho Chi Minh Trail are strewn with anti-personnel mines and bomblets discharged from cluster bombs. Many large unexploded bombs have been left lying around all over Laos, mainly in the countryside. They are very dangerous so always keep to existing tracks and if you see any unknown objects, do not touch. Getting Around Laos is a mountainous country with no railway and few good roads. With the Mekong River being such a prominent topographical feature it is not surprising that it plays a significant role in communications and life. There are slow boat services for tourists who want to experience life on the river between some towns. Speedboats are also an option for travellers with a tight schedule, though not always recommended. Air Lao Aviation has an extensive network throughout Laos. There are connecting flights between the tourist highlights such as Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse and Xieng Khouang. Airport tax is 10 US$ (July 2005).

Bus Currently there are no longer travel restrictions for tourists who want to go to the provinces by bus. All areas are safe to travel. The most common long distance bus runs between Vientiane and Luang Prabang and it takes around 10 hours. Many tourists nowadays stop at Vang Vieng and spend a night there before continuing the last stretch of their journey. Since Laos is mountainous and its road conditions poor, journeys can be long and exhausting, although the scenery is beautiful. During the rainy season, between June and September, roads are frequently impassable. Taxi Taxis are not normally metered, so your fare is negotiable. However, the going rate is around US$ 0.50 per km. Always negotiate before setting off. Tuk Tuk The most popular means of transport within cities is the tuk tuk. These 3-wheeled vehicles with two benches placed sideways in the back can be found everywhere. Always negotiate before setting off. Time Zone Standard time in Laos is 6 hours ahead of Central European Time (CET), 7 hours ahead of GMT, 12 hours ahead of time in New York, 3 hours behind time in Sydney and in the same time zone as Bangkok.