Cute Little Girl With Her Pet Buffalo

Absolutely adorable photo of a cute little Lao girl with a big smile on her face.  She's in her village with her huge pet buffalo in tow.  What a wonderful shot.  Seeing this makes me smile along with her!

Photo Credit:  Marcio Machado, 2007.  Click link to see more of his photos.

Nice Scenic Path

Photo:  A path At Phasoum Waterfall, Pakse.  

Credit:  Toui Noui OuilOui Dk.  Posted by:  Glory of Laos on Facebook.

Convenience = Food sellers who come to you

While there is definite convenience when the food sellers come to you, I can't help but think this is also our (Lao) version of a drive-thru :p.

Photo Credit:  Sangkhane Phachanthavong on Facebook.

Home Decor - Lao Chic? Reflections...

Integrating Lao items (like a nice textile or a Buddha statue) with modern sensibilities into one's decor can be quite easy.  Having one's culture reflected in  home decor doesn't necessarily mean having to go wild on any single theme either.  Take a look at this.  It's a mix of antique vintage items combined with new store bought ones.  A combination of modern and traditional, ethnic and mainstream.  Remember:  Choosing the right accent piece(s) is key and it's important not to clutter.

I created this little vignette that I'm calling "Reflections". 

Lao Bamboo Soup

Found a nicely made video showing viewers how to make one of Laos' most traditional vegetarian dishes, Lao bamboo soup (gang naw my).

Posted by Youtube user House of X Tia.

Does Laos Have Minimum Wage?

It may be a surprise for some to learn that Laos, even though it is a poorer country, actually does have minimum wage laws.  The minimum wage was created as recently as 2005 when it was set to 290,000 kip per month (based on a typical work day of 8 hours, 26 days a month).  Four years later, in 2009, it was increased to 348,000 kip.  Another four years later, effective January 1st, 2013, the new wage had been set to 626,000 kip (approx. $80 USD / month; 1USD = 7,827LAK). Additionally, as of 2009, it became mandatory for employers to also include a daily meal allowance as well.

Lao Phrase of the Day: Traveling With My Friend(s)