#44 Laos

Laos is a real treasure. It's a little hard to get to, but once you arrive, the trip is well worth it. It combines a lot of elements from neighbouring countries. It has the great food and friendly people of Thailand, the French influence of Vietnam and a strong buddhist element. I only went to the old Imperial capital, Luang Prabang. There seems to be an equal number of monks and backpackers, but it's still amazing.