A specific deep-dive into budget travel in Laos because it's the least-covered Southeast Asian country in budget travel discussions.

Luang Prabang: the main destination, on the Mekong, UNESCO heritage old town. Has gotten notably more expensive in the last 5 years as Chinese tourism developed the infrastructure. Current realistic budget: $35-45/day. Accommodation has seen the most inflation — decent guesthouse private rooms now run $20-30/night.

Vang Vieng: the river town notorious for party tourism in the 2000s has slightly matured but remains budget-oriented. $25-35/day is achievable. The tubing on the river is still the main attraction; the Blue Lagoon swimming holes nearby are free or $1 entry.

Vientiane: the most low-key capital in Southeast Asia. Population of 800,000 but feels like a large town. Budget $25-35/day. The Patuxai monument is Laos's own Arc de Triomphe (built with cement donated for an airport runway). The night market along the Mekong riverside is excellent.

The slow boat from Huay Xai (Thai border) to Luang Prabang: 2 days, $35-40, passing through mountain river scenery that's one of the great journeys in Southeast Asia. The alternative is a 1-hour flight for $60-80 — most travelers with any flexibility choose the slow boat.

Overall Laos: an increasingly mainstream backpacker destination that's lost some of its off-the-beaten-path character but retains its essential character of being genuinely laid-back. Budget 3-4 weeks.