In a bid to reduce poverty, the Lao government has expanded the Village Development Fund, allocating 500 million Lao kip (some US$23,800) per district. Six villages have benefited from this ...

Villages clustered along the river regularly host backpackers drawn to the country’s exquisite French colonial architecture and stunning palaces and temples, but, the rugged terrain keeps Laos ...

Children from nearby villages may come aboard asking for food or snacks, offering a humbling glimpse into rural life in Laos. While the journey can feel long, it's also incredibly peaceful.