Laos: Our First Impressions

“It’s dangerous”, “Got things to see meh?” were just a few of the comments from close friends and family that plagued me as I shared about my trip to Laos.

The funny thing? These people probably couldn’t even name the capital of Laos, much less have visited it. 

Undeterred, I packed my bags and set off for the Land of a Million Elephants.

Let’s take it back a little — I first decided to visit Laos… when my mentor invited me to attend a seminar there. Borders are open, everyone is posting about their travels on social media. I was very jealous as I had yet to step out of Singapore when the borders reopened. So, when my mentor gave me a chance to go to Laos, I hopped on this chance to explore a place unexplored by anyone in my social circle.

The impressions that were given to me were not great, to say the least. However, I knew this country would be different the moment I stepped out of my hotel to get my first bite after a 3 hours flight. 

Stepping out of my hotel, I went and got my first bite. It is at this moment, right after I bite into the Mungbean ball, which is served to me by this friendly Grandma. My eyes widened, and I said, “ Bro shiok (Singlish for good) sia.” The snack is savoury with a sweet finish. I turned right into a food stall to order a pork noodle soup. Biting into it, I smiled and laughed to comprehend just how delicious this pork noodle soup was. It’s porky, brothy and full of flavour. It’s everything you want in a bowl of soup.

I then walked towards the Mekong. I saw a beautiful temple that fits right by its surroundings after 5 minutes. I took a moment to enjoy the detailed engravings of the temple’s exterior. Its golden patterns are engraved on the outside. It gives off a grand yet peaceful vibe to it, which I greatly appreciate.  

Reaching the Mekong, the sunset sets off a calmness in me. Hearing the sounds of joy and laughter by the locals enjoying the view alongside their loved ones, I let it all in and enjoyed the moment. The scenery is gorgeous, to say the least. In the concrete jungle of Singapore, sunsets aren’t that enjoyable (except when I am shooting, of course), and due to this, I hardly enjoy viewing sunsets. However, this view just hits differently. For just that hour, time just sits still as you feel present and in the moment.

As I approached strangers near the art-filled market and food-lined streets, they smiled, and I felt warmed by their greetings. With a sense of community and familiarity with everyone I met, I feel like a new member of their family. Which I learnt later a huge part of Laotian culture.  This is what I am beginning to call “Laotian Hospitality”.

They say first impressions counts. And this does not disappoint. A huge polar opposite to what I was told back home. The “Laotian Hospitality” allow me to feel at home away from home. I look forward to the sceneries and the gastronomical adventures I am about to embark on. Needless to say, I look forward to what the country, Laos, has to offer.