Being landlocked limits mass tourism in Laos. Despite that, the country has, somewhat surprisingly, one of the fastest growing economies in South East Asia. With an average monthly wage of around US$250, the starting point is fairly low, though. And of course, as often happens in emerging nations, there are clearly a few wealthy individuals here who have excellent taste, of course
but the vast majority of the population have to graft hard for their meagre earnings in whatever way they can.
Much of the country’s impressive growth record comes from hydro electric exports to neighbouring countries, mining and metals. Clearly there is an overstock of the latter which has found its way to my hotel .
I’m not entirely sure that this so called chic design works for me.
Bathroom towel hooks made out of bits of scrap metal just doesn’t seem right!
As in similar lower income countries, outdoor markets flourish. But whereas in Thailand the emphasis is on food, in Laos it’s every other conceivable product that dominates. For example, fake grass sees to be popular
as do large soft toys doing unspeakable things to each other!
And as for the ladies’ fashion wear, I can’t see these designs taking off in the west any time yet. But what do I know?
Just across the mighty Mekong river from Thailand is Vientiane, the capital of Laos with a population of less than 1 million people all of whom appear to descend on the 7 day a week night market in the centre of the city where most of the prices are absurdly cheap.
The local currency (called the Kip!) is quite confusing as there are lots and lots of them to the £, Euro or US$ but to give you an idea, the price of each of these ladies dresses, tops or whatever is less than £0.80!!
This splendid wood carving will, of course, cost you just a tad more and I suspect the shipping costs to Europe will be more than the article itself!
And when you’re all shopped out there’s always food close at hand.
In this country of less than 7 million inhabitants there is a rich cultural heritage here. So, although I am not venturing out of the capital this time, I am told that what there is to see in the capital is a good ‘taster’ of what lies in the surrounding countryside. So, I shall see because absorbing a bit of local culture is next on my list.
Phileas
thelasthurrahsite 