What is considered taboo in Laos?

9 months ago 160 views

In Laos, physical contact without permission is taboo. Avoid hugging or touching women, especially inappropriately. Respect for women and Buddhist monks necessitates a polite and non-physical demeanor. Uninvited touching is deeply offensive, reflecting a disregard for Laotian customs and values. Maintain respectful distance and seek consent before any physical interaction.

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What are common cultural taboos to avoid in Laos?

Okay, Laos, huh? I gotta tell you, I was totally lost at first about the whole taboo thing.

Basically, don't go hugging or, like, groping women without their okay. I mean, common sense, right? But seriously, big no-no there.

I was in Luang Prabang, like, ages ago – think it was October 2015? Beautiful place. Anyway, I saw a tourist try to put his arm around a local woman for a photo... awk-ward doesn't even cover it.

And it's not just women! Monks are, like, super respected. Imagine touching a priest, basically, not cool. Be respectful, keep your hands to yourself. It's just good karma, y'know? Think it was around 50 USD a night i paid, at a pretty decent guest house, near the night market. Good times but I'll def do my research better next time regarding customs, cause the awkwardness was for real.

Can you hold hands in Laos?

Ugh, Laos. Okay, so Vientiane, 2018. Hot, sticky. I was backpacking with Liam. Good ol' Liam.

We were walking near that temple, Wat Si Saket, I think. Sun was blazing. My flip-flops were sticking to the pavement.

I reflexively reached for his hand. Just… y'know, comfort or somethin'.

His face. Oh man. He practically jumped. Like I'd electrocuted him. Whispered, "Uh, dude. Can't do that here."

Weirdest thing, he started holding the hand of some other guy. LOL! Seriously!

Later he explained it's okay to hold hands with same-sex friends. But not with a girlfriend or, whatever, a boyfriend. Total PDA no-no for couples. Cultural thing, I guess. It was awkwaaaard, for sure!

Place: Vientiane, Laos
Time: 2018
Person: Liam (traveling companion)
Feeling: Initially confusion, then awkwardness and slight embarrassment.
Important fact: PDA restrictions differ based on gender.

What should you be careful of in Laos?

Laos...a whisper of emerald, a sigh in the Mekong breeze...Be careful, traveler.

Never trust the offered hand, bearing gifts of sweet temptation. A stranger's smile can mask deceit. A rice wine offered...is it friendship or shadow? Shadows...

Drinks unattended, a pool of danger. My iced coffee, left a breath...polluted by unseen malice. Watch your drink, always. Always.

Unknown food, a gamble with your own soul. If doubt clouds your judgment, abstain. Better hunger than regret, bitter regret. I ate street noodles in Luang Prabang...an explosion of spice, yes, but safe? Safe. Safe.

Booze...a liquid courage, or a liquid trap. Stay near your kin, your trusted allies. My friend, lost in Vang Vieng's haze...where did he go? Gone.

Guardian. Be the guardian of your group. A watchful eye, a steady hand. My sister, tripping on cobblestones... I caught her. Did I? I did.

Trust no one, trust your gut.. Laos, beautiful and dangerous...a paradox of emerald and shadow.

What are the dos and donts in Laos?

Laos: Head high, feet low. Respect that.

No head touching. Seriously.
Dress neatly. Cleanliness matters. Public nudity? Forget it.
Shoes off indoors. Always.

My trip in 2023: Saw it firsthand. Locals were amazing, but traditions are strict. Broke a few minor rules – learned fast. Don't be a fool.

Further points:

Monasteries: Dress modestly. Shoulders and knees covered.
Temples: Remove shoes. Silence is golden.
Gifts: Small gifts appreciated, but not expected. Avoid giving anything black or white.
Bargaining: Expect it in markets. But be polite.
Alcohol: Consumed moderately, particularly by women.
Public Displays of Affection: Keep it low-key.
Photography: Ask permission before snapping pictures, especially of people.
Politics: Avoid sensitive topics.
Wat Xieng Thong: A must-see. Breathtaking.
Kuang Si Falls: Stunning. Go early. Crowds later.
Luang Prabang: Beautiful. Explore the night market. The food is exceptional. I had the best Khao Soi there.

Is it okay to hold hands in Vietnam?

Holding hands... In Vietnam? It's complicated, you know?

Walking through Hanoi last summer with my friend, Liam... Well, we held hands.

Big cities? Yeah, you can.
Smaller towns? Maybe think twice.

It just… depends.

Old habits die hard, I guess. It's more than just geography though, isnt it? It's about respect, I think.

It depends on where you are.
Younger crowds are more accepting.

You’ll know. You just feel it.

Is holding hands okay in Vietnam?

Holding hands... yeah, hand-holding is okay in Vietnam. Just feels, I dunno, simpler.

Other stuff though? Hugging? Kissing in public? No. Keep it to yourself. It's not done.

I remember seeing a couple get yelled at near Hoan Kiem Lake once. So yeah, it's kinda serious.

So, what can you do?

Smile. Always a good start.
Wave. Friendly. Uncomplicated.
Say "Xin chao". Hello, you know? It's polite.

Maybe that's enough. Enough for now. Simple things, right? Like walking along the street in Hanoi. Feels like a long time ago now...

Society What is considered taboo in Laos?

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