Skip to content
  • Essence GU
  • Beautycon
  • NaturallyCurly
  • Afropunk
  • Essence Studios
  • Soko Mrkt
  • Ese Funds
  • Refinery29
  • WeLoveUs.shop
  • 2026 ESSENCE Festival Of Culture
  • Celebrity
  • Fashion
  • Beauty
  • Lifestyle
  • Entrepreneurship
  • News
  • Shopping
  • Video
  • Events
  • Subscribe
Home • Travel

Black Travel Vibes: Take Your Passport To New Heights In Laos

ESSENCE's exclusive guide on how to see, taste and experience the hottest destinations in Black travel.
Black Travel Vibes: Take Your Passport To New Heights In Laos
Photo Credit: @she.just.left
By Danielle Pointdujour · Updated December 6, 2020
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready…

From wandering the streets of Cartagena to eating strange foods in Bangkok to relaxing in the endless blue waters of Zanzibar – Black people are seeing the world more than ever before. After a while, it can feel like there are no new adventures left to discover, that is until you lay eyes on a gem you didn’t even know existed.

Laos is a destination that many people traveling to southeast Asia tend to overlook in favor of more popular escapes like Thailand and Vietnam —but that’s all about to change. Globetrotters are flocking to Laos to experience its vibrant culture, flavorful cuisine, heart-pumping adventures and more. And they all have one thing in common — once they do, they fall in love!

Houston native Alexis (@she.just.left) is currently living in Vietnam, and recently found herself enamored by the magic of Laos. The friendly spirit of the Laotian people left her smiling from ear to ear and counting down the days until she can return.

“I can’t help but to feel overjoyed. This Laos trip has been one for the books. The smile you see here has remained this entire trip. The people I’ve met, the places I went, everything I’ve experienced here. the Lao people are the epitome of respectful and kind. They have left a lasting impression on my heart. I will definitely be back,” she says.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alexis 🧿 Travel/Expat Life Inspo & Tips (@she.just.left)

If you’ve been looking to take your travels to new heights, Alexis’ photo journey through Laos along with our exclusive guide will tell you all you need to know about your new favorite getaway. Enjoy!

01
Welcome to Laos
Known for its mountainous terrain, vivid nature, and French colonial architecture, the southeast Asian country of Laos is truly one of the region’s underrated destinations. The best time to visit is between October and April when the weather’s warm and dry, and sailing along the Mekong River is calm. 1 Lao Kip equals 0.000113091 USD, so don’t be afraid to ball out a little.
Black Travel Vibes: Take Your Passport To New Heights In Laos
Photo Credit: @she.just.left
02
Gone Glamping
Skip the typical hotel or hostel stay, and instead go glamping at the Rosewood Luang Prabang. Check into one of the hotel’s six luxury tents nestled in the lush hillside for tranquility and breathtaking mountain views.
Black Travel Vibes: Take Your Passport To New Heights In Laos
Photo Credit:Rosewood Luang Prabang
03
Distinct Cuisine
While dishes from surrounding countries like Thailand and Vietnam can be found in Laos, the country has a distinct cuisine all its own, with many regional variations that often correspond to the fresh foods local to each area. Sticky rice is a staple of Laotian cuisine and can be found at most establishments. Don’t leave without trying some delicious pork larb, the country’s national dish.
Black Travel Vibes: Take Your Passport To New Heights In Laos
Getty Images
04
Chase Waterfalls
Once your done exploring the stunning temples, towering mountains, and indulging in the mouth-watering cuisine, head just outside of Luang Prabang to the magical Kuang Si Falls. Set in a limestone-rich jungle, this three leveled, cascading waterfall makes a perfect day trip from the city.
Black Travel Vibes: Take Your Passport To New Heights In Laos
Photo Credit: @she.just.left
TOPICS:  Black Travel Moment of the Day Culture Laos llifestyle travel travel guide