Need to know

Population: 55,027 Languages: Lao, French; English is widely spoken in tourism areas Time zone: GMT+7

Int’l dialling code: +856 Visas: UK nationals can get 30-day visas on arrival. But you’ll need to bring a passport photo, and it helps to have US dollars to pay for it, as it’s typically cheaper (US$35/£27) than using Thai baht (THB1,500/£35).

Currency: Laotian kip, currently around LAK11,033 to the UK£. While it’s not encouraged, you can also pay with low denomination US dollars and Thai Baht if you’re stuck for local cash.

ATMS: ATMS are widely available in Luang Prabang and most accept Visa and Mastercard. Typically, you’re charged a fixed fee of LAK20,000 (£1.80) for a withdrawal. Most ATMS won’t let you withdraw more than LAK1,500,000 (around £135) at a time.

Credit cards: More upmarket hotels, shops and restaurants accept cards for payment, but many charge a fee. You’re best off paying in cash. Recommended guidebook: The Lonely Planet’s Laos (2017) guide is always a useful resource Useful websites: Travelfish.com is the go-to guide for all things South-east Asia. It features in-depth information about Luang Prabang, including plenty of places to stay and eat.