jbarte
From: United States
4/14/2003 15:00 EST
I'm studying the possibility of moving to Laos. I have a job offer there, and as you can imaging any tip is welcome.
My main concern is about the coming rainy season. Is it raining non stop for 5 months? What people do for entertainment? Do they just stay home?
I guess I don't want to find myself in a situation where it's raining all day long, and the only thing to do is to stay home.
Also, Is there an specific area of town where all the expats live? How much could be a one bedroom apartment there? Is it in Vientiane or outside?
Would you recommend getting an apartment in the downtown area, since it may be a more lively there?
Finally, Have you heard of any SARS case in Laos?
Thank you very much for any advise.
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pawthoo
From: Lao People''s Democratic Republic
2/8/2004 11:18 EST
Hi,
Haven't checked this in ages so am answering a little late. If you went, then you should already know that the rainy season doesn't mean constant rain 24/7 from May to Oct. We have been in Vientiane for about two years. I don't know everything nor everyone but I would be happy to answer any of your questions.
Vientiane is small as capitals go. You will learn the city in short order. Expats live in all parts of the city there is no single district or 'ban' where they can all be found. Rents vary from very cheap for spartan quarters to sumptuous villas with servants.
The prices range from $200 for a small furnished
house to $thousands. There are several agents who specialize in finding living accomadations for new comers.
A wide variaty of restaurants is available from the neighborhood noodle shop (quite good and cheap) to fancy 'reservations required' European
style bistros. Part of the fun is finding your own favorites.
If you are already here drop me an email and Ill give you my phone number to answer any other questions you may have.
Good luck and see you around town or on the golf courses. I don't spend much time down by the riverside district where the backpackers and tourists congregate so...most likely won't see you there unless we're meeting someone for drinks or dinner.
Pawthoo
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myersmach
From: United States
3/12/2004 05:59 EST
Hi Pawthoo:
I saw your response to the "rainy season" question, and enjoyed reading your comments.
If you see this message, I would like to ask you a few questions about Vientiane if you have time.
Please email me at myersmach@aol.com, or post here, and I will respond. If you read the "First-Time visitor to Lao" post in the forums from today, 3-12-04, you will see my post.
Thanks, and hope all is well in Lao.
Scott
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pawthoo
From: Lao People''s Democratic Republic
4/16/2006 10:38 EST
Although it's a couple of years late, I'll still answer questiions if you still have them.
Just forget to check this forum often.
Pawthoo
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jobhunt4her
From: United States
1/8/2007 23:55 EST
hello pawthoo, I wil be in Vientiane Feb. 2007. If you happen to read this, would you please email me at gretchengd@yahoo.com for further questions on Lao...? Thank you
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KorpJai
From: Lao People''s Democratic Republic
3/6/2007 01:49 EST
Hi Pawthoo, I have just recently moved to Vientiane for good. Maybe we can meet up for a Beerl Lao
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pawthoo
From: Lao People''s Democratic Republic
3/26/2007 19:51 EST
gretchen,
'
Again I apologize for being a month or so late in reply. I forget that I even posted here so long ago.
We're still here but will be leaving for our annual three week trip home on 2 April. Will return 25 April. email me again and I'll try to answer your specific questions. Things have really changed in the 5 years we've been here.
You can find me at the English House office across from the Hospital 103; big sign. I'm there every morning and after 1.
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pawthoo
From: Lao People''s Democratic Republic
3/26/2007 19:56 EST
Welcome,
Happy to meet for a Beerlao but it'll have to wait until 25 April or so when we get back from our annual trip home.
you can usually find me at English House offices in the morning and after 1.
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agypsyquokka
From: China
3/26/2007 22:37 EST
Hi KorpJai,
Hi,
I am seeking information about possible working and retirement in Laos.
There is very little on most web sites about the government policies in that country.
Can I go and live there for an extended period? With what type of visa?
You said you have moved there for good - HOW?
On a chat line I was told that you can often buy a 1 year visa for $500 USD, but I do not know how reliable that is to think about getting a renewal after a year as the government policy is unknown.
How difficult is it to find a job. I am currently an English teacher in China but I do not want to work for too much longer as I am just past 60 now. Adapting to living and working in another Asian culture would not be a problem for me.
Do you know anything about the banking system? Is it possible to open an account at a bank in Vientiane and have foreign funds deposited into it at times. Info that I have read says no.
Possibly need to have a Thai bank account and visit Nong Khai, Thailand every few months to make a larger withdrawal and place the cash into a Vientiane bank???????
I very much appreciate any information you can share. Possibly the questions above are complex but any thread is helpful. I have visited Laos before but these points were not priority at the time.
Have a great day and thanks,
what is your email for direct contact?
Dane [agypsyquokka@hotmail.com]
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