1. Language:

The official language of Lao PDR is Lao. It is spoken throughout the country as well as the Vientiane’s dialect. In spite of the colonial past, French is still spoken by the elder generations, while English is in common use among business sectors and young generations, even though they are not widely spoken except in the capital and in major tourist sites such as Luang Prabang, Pakse, Vang Vieng etc.

2. Sim card:

2.1. Best SIM Cards In Laos

If you’re traveling in Laos, we recommend using a SIM card from Lao Telecom, Unitel, TPlus, or Airalo. 

That said, if you’re planning on visiting other countries during your trip to Asia, you might want to make sure to pick an option that offers coverage in other Asian countries.

2.2. How To Buy A SIM Card In Laos

You can either buy a Laos prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a SIM card at the airport.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s essential to keep this in mind. And, when you see a shop, you might also have limited options.

For this reason, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store. Note that you may need your passport to buy one.

Although, this means you won’t get data right upon your arrival.

So, if you prefer to be connected at all times, you could use an eSIM or purchase an Asia prepaid SIM card online.

Now, let’s take a look at the data plans offered by Lao Telecom, Unitel, and TPlus:

• Lao Telecom SIM Cards

Lao Telecom offers two different types of tourist plans:
5 GB, valid for 3 days for KIP 15,000 ($0.88)
7 GB, valid for 7 days for KIP 25,000 ($1.46)

• Unitel SIM Cards

Unitel has several different prepaid plans. The best options available are:
15 GB, valid for 10 days for KIP 25,000 ($1.46)
30 GB, valid for 15 days for KIP 40,000 ($2.33)
60 GB, valid for 30 days for KIP 80,000 ($4.67)
80 GB, valid for 30 days for KIP 99,000 ($5.78)

• TPlus SIM Cards

TPlus offers two main SIM-only plans for tourists:
2 GB, valid for 1 day for KIP 10,000 ($0.58)
40 GB, valid for 30 days for KIP 50,000 ($2.92)
Overall, we think Unitel is the best option if you plan to buy your SIM card in person.
That said, any would do if you can’t find their store!