About the Book

CultureShock! Laos points you on the right path to appreciating the culture and customs of this land-locked nation. Discover the impact of its five immediate neighbours on the land and see how Laos’ wartime history and the time spent as a French protectorate in the late 19th century have influenced the people’s way of life. This book covers everything—from the difference between the 132 officially recognised ethnic groups to the reverence accorded to Buddhist monks—to provide a shortcut to understanding the Lao. Practical information on settling down, engaging domestic help as well as how to behave in various business scenarios make CultureShock! Laos essential reading for anyone going there for the long haul. Last but not least, kick back and enjoy as we highlight the best of the country’s arts, heritage and cultural offerings and recreational activities.

About the Series

The CultureShock! series is a dynamic and indispensable range of guides for those travellers who are looking to truly understand the countries they are visiting. Each title explains the customs, traditions, social and business etiquette in a lively and informative style.

CultureShock! authors, all of whom have experienced the joys and pitfalls of cultural adaptation, are ideally placed to provide warm and informative advice to those who seek to integrate seamlessly into diverse cultures. The books in this series have a friendly and honest writing style and are full of personal experiences, practical advice and useful information.

About the Author

After a lifetime in Laos and Thailand, researching Hmong and managing refugees, Dr Robert Cooper, by formation an economic anthropolist, now lives in Vientiane. He supervises micro-investment projects aimed at eliminating poverty, and writes books. He is an Englishman who speaks French, Lao, Thai, Malay etc. and has been living in the area for 30 years. His other books include: CultureShock! Thailand, Thais Mean Business, Thailand Beyond the Fringe, The Hmong, Red Fox Goose Green and Red Flag.