Moving to Laos
Last updated on Jan 07, 2024
Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Laos for its low cost of living, beautiful scenery, and relaxed lifestyle. People can find a place to live in Laos by searching online for rental properties, or by asking around in the local expat community. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Laos are Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Savannakhet.
What do I need to know before moving to Laos?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Laos, they said:
"Before moving to Laos, expats should be aware that the country is still developing and the infrastructure is not as advanced as in other countries. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Laos is relatively low, but the quality of goods and services may not be as high as in other countries. Additionally, expats should be aware that the climate in Laos is tropical and humid, and the rainy season runs from May to October. Expats should also be aware that the official language of Laos is Lao, although English is widely spoken in the cities. Finally, expats should be aware that the visa requirements for Laos are quite strict and that they should research the visa requirements before making the move," explained one expat living in Laos.
"No advice. Depends on your style of life. I grew up in the mountains of Colorado in a cabin with no electricity, running water, and snowed in 3 months of the year," said one expat in Vientiane.
How do I find a place to live in Laos?
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Laos?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Laos?
- Will I be able to find a job in Laos?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Laos appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Laos?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Laos accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Laos like?
- How are healthcare services in Laos?
- What are medical services in Laos like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Laos?
- What are emergency services like in Laos?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Laos?
- How are local medical facilities in Laos?
- As a foreigner living in Laos, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?