It's a problem, but I don't drink so it's not my problem.

Yes, like in every country technically there is, but it's not strict.

Few kids drink and smoke, but most kids don't 8 yrs old don't have money for beer.

Admin Saovaluck wrote on 11^th Mar, 2011 at 5:55pm:


I see it all the time (in the villages). I don't know what it's like where YOU stay, but where I'M from, it's considered the norm. Maybe this type of thing is reserved for special occassins, like when they have foreign relatives holidaying. Some even have home-made tattoos emblazoned over various parts of their anatomies. As far as smoking goes...................never witnessed that one. I even offered them a few packets, as gifts. Let's just say they passed the test. For now.

Just be upfront and honest with them and say you don't drink alcohol.

If they still pressure you to drink it, you could have a sip to make them happy or just refuse it altogether.

They won't mind.

Admin Saovaluck wrote on 12^th Mar, 2011 at 10:07am:



I have a question that is sort of on this subject and on the subject that posted earlier dealing with Lao wedding. I saw in the videos I have been watching that the family of the bride gives the groom drinks at the door. Also, the groom and bride sip some alcoholic beverage during the ceremony.

A friend asked me, "What if I am a recovering Alcoholic? Do I still have to drink? Will it offend them if I don't drink with them?"

One more thing, I read that if you are offered a drink in Laos, it is an insult to refuse it. Is this also true?    

A child with a bottle of beerlao. I don't know why Lao parents would do this, even if it's just for a photo.