Pros and Cons of Living in Laos
Last updated on Jan 03, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in Laos include the country's stunning natural beauty, its friendly people, and its low cost of living. Additionally, the country is known for its delicious cuisine and its vibrant culture. On the other hand, the cons of living in Laos include the lack of modern infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, and the prevalence of poverty. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.
What are the pros and cons of living in Laos?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Laos responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Laos appreciate the low cost of living, the friendly locals, and the laid-back atmosphere. They also enjoy the abundance of outdoor activities, such as trekking, kayaking, and exploring the many caves and waterfalls. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of infrastructure and modern amenities to be a challenge. Additionally, the language barrier can be a source of frustration for those who don't speak Lao," said one expat in Laos.

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What do expats in Laos appreciate most about the local culture?
"Laid back friendly people. Appreciative of anything you do for them. Respectful of elders," remarked one in Vientiane.
"Expats in Laos appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and the friendly locals. They also enjoy the country's rich cultural heritage, with its ancient temples, traditional festivals, and vibrant markets. The country's natural beauty, with its lush jungles, stunning waterfalls, and stunning mountain views, is also a major draw for expats. Additionally, the low cost of living and the relaxed pace of life make Laos an attractive destination for those looking for a more laid-back lifestyle," explained one expat.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expatriates in Laos often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The language barrier can be difficult to overcome, as English is not widely spoken in Laos. Additionally, the local customs and etiquette can be difficult to understand, as they are often quite different from those of the expat's home country. Furthermore, the pace of life in Laos is much slower than in many other countries, which can be difficult for expats to adjust to," said one expat in Laos.
"Learning Lao, shopping at the market for food, making sure the family is happy, getting my sense of direction (which is terrible)," said a person living in Vientiane.
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?