Laos, a small nation, bordered by China, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam, is a lesser travelled SouthEatern country, but highly recommended by me. Despite the slew of bad press surrounding Laos, specifically Vang Vieng, regarding methanol poisoning, the country provides an authentic SE experience. Despite Laos having a few recommended spots, I would suggest the lesser-travelled, rural areas over Vang Vieng. Luang Prabang is a highly recommended area, with waterfalls and national parks a short bike ride away. Notably, I have not recommended the highly popular 'tipsy tubing' due to a lack of safety regulations. Note: I travelled in Laos in the summer of 2023, prior to the methanol poisonings, and have heard that since, the tourist community has largly decreasing unfortuantley, as methanol poisoning is common in many countries such as Thailand and Cuba. Laos is a beautiful country with a tragic history that is rarely mentioned within the conversation of the Vietnam War, still facing the repercussions of the estimated 270 million bombs dropped, with 2023 data estimating 47 casualties a year due to unexploded bombs.

Laos-China Railway (LCR), also known as the Boten–Vientiane railway. This is a modern, standard-gauge electric railway system that opened in December 2021 and forms the primary rail network in the country. 

Alongside the typical SE Asia forms of travel, the nwly opened Laos- China Railway (Boten - Vientiane railway) is a highly efficent way to travel the country.