6 Tips For Luang Prabang Laos Airport

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Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a popular tourist destination in Laos known for its rich culture, stunning natural beauty, and friendly locals. If you're planning to visit this charming town, you'll likely arrive at Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ). To ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience, here are six valuable tips to keep in mind when arriving at Luang Prabang Laos Airport.

Understanding the Airport Layout and Facilities

Luang Prabang International Airport is a relatively small airport, making it easy to navigate. The airport has two terminals: the old terminal, which handles domestic flights, and the new terminal, which handles international flights. The airport offers basic facilities, including a few shops, restaurants, and a currency exchange office.

Airport Arrival Procedures

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang International Airport, follow these steps:

• Proceed to the immigration counter, where you'll need to present your passport and completed arrival card (usually provided by the airline).
• If you're not a citizen of a visa-exempt country, you'll need to obtain a visa on arrival (VOA). The cost of a VOA varies depending on your nationality, and you'll need to pay in cash (US dollars or Laotian kip).
• After clearing immigration, collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.
• If you have any items to declare, proceed to the customs counter.

Tips for Getting to Your Accommodation

There are several options to get to your accommodation from Luang Prabang International Airport:

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal. The journey to the town center takes around 10-15 minutes and costs approximately 50,000-60,000 Laotian kip (around $6-7 USD).
• Tuk-tuk: A tuk-tuk is a more affordable option and can be found outside the airport terminal. The journey to the town center takes around 10-15 minutes and costs approximately 30,000-40,000 Laotian kip (around $4-5 USD).
• Shuttle bus: Some hotels and resorts offer shuttle bus services from the airport. Check with your accommodation provider to see if this service is available.
• Private transfer: You can also book a private transfer service in advance, which can be more convenient and hassle-free.

Money Exchange and ATMs

The airport has a currency exchange office, where you can exchange your money for Laotian kip. However, the rates may not be the best, and you may get a better rate at a local bank or currency exchange office in the town center.

There are also ATMs available at the airport, which accept major credit and debit cards. Be aware that you may be charged a withdrawal fee by your bank and the ATM operator.

Sim Cards and Internet Access

If you want to stay connected during your trip, you can purchase a local sim card at the airport. The airport has a few shops selling sim cards, which can be used for data and voice calls.

Alternatively, you can also use the airport's Wi-Fi, which is available in the terminals.

Health and Safety

As with any travel destination, it's essential to take necessary health and safety precautions. Make sure to:

• Drink plenty of bottled or filtered water to stay hydrated.
• Avoid eating undercooked food or raw vegetables.
• Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn and insect bites.
• Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Luang Prabang Airport Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind when arriving at Luang Prabang International Airport:

• Be prepared for crowds and long queues during peak travel seasons.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as you'll need to walk and stand for extended periods.
• Bring a portable power bank to keep your devices charged.
• Learn a few basic Laotian phrases, such as "sabai sabai" (hello) and "khop chai" (thank you).

We hope these tips and tricks will help you navigate Luang Prabang International Airport with ease. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful Laotian town!