After years of war and isolation, Laos that has a Southeast Asia ’s most pristine environment, intact cultures and quite possibly the most chilled-out people on earth is fast earning cult status among travelers. It is developing quickly but still has much of the tradition that has sadly disappeared elsewhere in the region. Village life is refreshingly simple and even in Vientiane , it’s hard to believe this sort of languid riverfront life exists in a national capital. Then, of course, there is the historic royal city of Luang Prabang, where you can watch hundreds of saffron-robed monks moving silently among centuries; Old monasteries are as romantic as a scene that you’ll experience anywhere in Asia.

Away from the cities, there is so much more to see, such as: the Plain of Jars in Xieng Khuang Province, the forested mountains of Northern Laos, the gothic limestone karsts around the backpacker-haven Vang Vieng, and in the deep south, past the market town Pakse, is Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), where the mighty Mekong spreads out and all the hammocks are taken.

The Lao wilderness is drawing travelers looking for nature, adventure or both. Kayaking, rafting, rock-climbing and biking are all available, but it’s the community-based trekking that is the most popular because it combines spectacular natural attractions and the chance to experience the ‘real Laos ’ with a village homestay – while spending your money where it’s needed most.