It is one of the most isolated countries in Southeast Asia and has been closed to international tourists for more than two years.
One of the last Southeast Asian countries to welcome tourists was the country that borders Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and China to the north.
Before it reopened to tourists from select countries in January, foreigners were only allowed to visit for essential reasons. This week, the popular backpacking destination opened its borders to all international tourists with some restrictions.
How to pack like a pro for a backpacking trip.
You will need to present proof if you are fully vaccine free. You do not need a booster if you have completed the recommended two or one dose of the vaccine. The final dose should have been given at least 14 days before departure.
If you are unvaccinated or only partially vaccined, you will need to take a pre-departure test within 48 hours of departure and present the negative result at the airport.
Before travel, all test and vaccine certificates must be uploaded to this mobile application.
backpacking in my 20s and 30s.
You will be required to take out medical insurance that will cover the costs of your own medical treatment if you contract the virus on your trip.
Children under the age of 12 are not required to be tested.
Eligible travelers can apply online for a visa in Laos. It is a good idea to apply well in advance of your trip, as approval usually takes about one business day.
Before this week, tourists who visited Laos were only allowed to do so as part of a pre- booked tour and they had to stay in certified hotels. The capital Vientiane, the ancient city of Luang Prabang, and the backpacker resort of Vangvieng are all free to visit now that the rules have been scrapped.
Face masks are still required in some places, and officials in areas with higher virus activity may implement stricter curbs.
According to ABC News, the Vientiane Times newspaper said that the decision to reopen was based on falling virus case numbers. The number of new infections has fallen from 2,000 in February to less than 200 now.
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