How to get a Laos visa from Mali

Laos is a relatively safe country for travellers, although certain areas remain off-limits because of unexploded ordnance left over from decades of warfare. As a visitor, however, you are an obvious target for thieves (who may include your fellow travellers), so do take necessary precautions.

Landlocked Laos is one of the world's few remaining communist states and one of East Asia's poorest. But despite economic reforms, the country remains poor and heavily dependent on foreign aid. Most Laotians live in rural areas, with around 80% working in agriculture mostly growing rice.

Laos is a safe place for independent travel, and many find it much safer than their hometowns in the west. There are occasional reports of petty theft, and the occasional bag snatching, but these can be avoided by being cautious with your belongings.

Bolaven Plateau in southern Laos is famous for its great scenery, ethnic villages and unexplored corners. It's probably best known for being home to some of Southeast Asia's most spectacular waterfalls including Tad Fane and Dong Hua Sao.

Laos is not a dangerous country and Vientiane is safer than most Western capitals. Gang violence and sexual assault of travellers is virtually unheard of. That said, Laos is still a developing country; widespread poverty and lack of infrastructure mean the roads are dangerous and petty theft can occur.

Laos is very traditional and body-revealing clothes should be avoided. Pack light, as it is easy and cheap to get clothes laundered. The tropical monsoon climate means it is humid and hot all year round; lightweight, loose-fitting clothes in natural fibres such as cotton, silk or linen will keep you cooler.