7/23 Waruda Street
Kirribilli, NSW 2061
ph: Mike: +61 414 700 460
alt: Kim: +61 415 443 322
Righty-oh then! "Where the hell is Laos??!!", we hear you say. It's the land-locked green country in the map below.
Location
Laos is often referred to as the 'land of a million elephants'. It is nestled in the centre of Indochina - land locked between China, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam.
The Mekong river forms most of the natural border with Thailand, and flows through 2,000 km of Lao territory. It shapes much of the lifestyle of the people of Laos.
Climate
Laos has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons - the rainy season (May to September) and dry season (October to April). The average temperature is about 28 C.
Language
Lao is the national language. Other languages used are French, English, Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese.
Religion
Buddhism first appeared in Laos during the eighth century A.D. Today 90% of the population are Theravada Buddists. Buddhism is an inherent feature of daily life and casts a strong influence on Lao society.
People
The population of Laos is 4.6 million. It's people share a rich ethnic diversity, comprising such groups as Hmong, Khmu, Yao, A'kha, Ikoa, Lu etc. Most of them have kept their own customs, dialects and traditional dress. There are approx 50 different ethnic / tribal groups in Laos.
Street scene in Luang Prabang
Making rice whisky
Please RSVP by December 1st 2007
7/23 Waruda Street
Kirribilli, NSW 2061
ph: Mike: +61 414 700 460
alt: Kim: +61 415 443 322