Dos and Don'ts in Laos

So you've landed in Laos... or is that Lao, Lao PDR, or Lao People's Democratic Republic? This insightful book on the Do's and Don'ts in Laos can help! This remote country far removed from the world stage has a daily life which proceeds at a truly unhurried pace and is dictated by the seasons, the planting of crops, superstition and religious devotion. The countryside of this overwhelmingly rural country, unravels into an ageless mix of rice paddies and villages. At all times DO cover yourself up. DON'T wear revealing tops and micro shorts as the Lao find it insults their sense of propriety. DON'T display your affections in public as it causes bewilderment. Save romantic moods for your hotel room. DO remember to speak softly and act humbly. DON'T push and shove to be first in line to photograph early morning alms-giving to monks. DO ask before clicking the shutter--some Lao believe that cameras capture part of their essence. DO expect Lao food to require a few reunions before you become happily acquainted with it. Duck embryo, squirrel heads, deep friend crickets and steamed chicken feet, are not for everyone. Included in this helpful travel guide is terrific background details such traditional stilted homes against a backdrop of mountains, jungle and rivers have a quiet beauty. The majority Lao people are poor, life is often hard and outside the handful of large towns, social services are sparse. But whatever their circumstances, you, the visitor, will be welcomed with smiles and courtesy wherever you go. To ensure that you, the foreign resident, fleeting visitor or armchair traveler, enjoy your stay in Laos, our resident author present a practical guide to the Do's and Don'ts of this magical country. DON'T be taken aback if a simple 'what's your name?' results in a shy smile. Lao often reserve their real names for family and close friends. DO apologize if you accidentally touch the head of somebody as it can cause real offence. DON'T scoff at ghosts and spirits. Insulting them is avoided at all cost. DO as the Lao do and you can't go wrong. Want to know why guns are fired during a lunar eclipse? Then DO buy this book!