A Golden Buddha, a Plain of Jars and four thousand islands—Laos has them all. This fully updated guide to Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic country includes recommendations for the best places to stay—from elegant auberges to simple bamboo huts—and tips for the adventurous traveler on everything from visiting hill tribe villages to exploring the Ho Chi Minh trail.

A Golden Buddha, a Plain of Jars and four thousand islands—Laos has them all. This fully updated guide to Southeast Asia’s most enigmatic country includes recommendations for the best places to stay—from elegant auberges to simple bamboo huts—and tips for the adventurous traveler on everything from visiting hill tribe villages to exploring the Ho Chi Minh trail.