Travelling is not just about breathtaking and marvelous scenery, but it is also about learning about new culture. Visiting local market is definitely one of the best way to get to know a new culture while filling out your stomach as well as doing some shopping.  It is considered as a cultural feature of tourism. While visiting markets, you can do some shopping for yourself, to keep memories of the place, to give as presents to your family and friends, etc. Therefore, don't hesitate to use this guide to Laos markets to help you gain more information to your next visit.  

1. Luang Prabang Morning market:

To get to Luang Prabang morning market, you must get up early as this market is closed by mid morning. However, in return, this will be the best opportunity to get the real taste of the local culture as this is where the locals do their shopping. Not only so, you will get to enjoy delicious local food at a cheap price.

In contrast to the big market, the morning market is a small alley with many shops placing next to each other  on both side. The colors and landscapes of this place are lively. Anything from fresh vegetables, fresh meats to ready-to-eat food can be found at this place. The most interest thing is the barbecue stalls with lots of grilled dishes like fishes, sausages, ribs, meats... Most of food is sold for a price of 10,000 kip.    

2. Luang Prabang night market:

Luang Prabang Night Market is considered as the most diverse and vibrant market in Luang Prabang but also an activity not to be missed in this city. Located along Sisavangvong Street, open from 17h-22h, this market has become a popular destination for those who like to walk. At sunset, vehicles are prohibited turning the place to a walking and shopping street.

With over 300 suppliers gathered here, craft items sold on the market are created by the skilled hands of the ethnic groups. Other products such as textiles, ceramics, paints are also sold. Moreover, you can buy tea, coffee and rare spices. Textile towels or old pottery will be a special gift from your tour in Laos to your family and friends and best of all, they are all very cheap!

3. Vanthong market in Vientiane:

Vangthong market is open in the afternoon. This is an ideal place to taste different kind of Laotian dish and street food.  In the evening, the market is busy and crowded with the locals. You can easily get there because it is close to the Laos National Stadium.

When you get to the National Stadium, you can already feel the aroma of food. Take a walk from the beginning to the end of this market, buy a little of each kind of food to enjoy is the best way to enjoy this food market.  Some must-try dish as you visit this market are definitely bing gai  (grilled chicken), bing moo (grilled meat) and khao niew (sticky rice).You can use English at the market, otherwise just use your body language, you will receive the enthusiastic and extremely friendly welcome of the sellers.

5. Talat Sao morning market:

Talat Sao Market, located in the heart of Vientiane, is the biggest shopping center in Vientiane, where many different items are sold.  

It is open daily from 7am until 4pm in the afternoon. This market consists of a large variety of products ranging from crafts, pottery, jewelry, fabrics, clothing with all kind of design. This market has a fast and on going vibe that is completely in contrast to the sleepy city of Vientiane. Like any other Southeast Asian market, get ready to get called by the sellers to try out and buy their products  and practice your bargain skill once you decide to buy something yet this is still a good place for those on a tight budget.

5. Vientiane night market:

Night market in Laos is not as noisy as regular market. Although there are quite a lot of visitors, the atmosphere is still calm and peaceful. This market is open from 6pm until midnight. Located on the bank of Mekong River, this night market is favoured by many thanks to the gentle wind and the stunning view of the sunset.

In the market, the booths are arranged very scientifically and neatly. Here, visitors can buy everything like clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts items, yet, one downside of this market would be that number of food stalls is limited. But don't be worry as there are many restaurants nearby. This seems to be one of the most attractive destination in Vientiane at night. Most traders will charge at a  higher prices. So, if you want to bargain, just use the calculator, press the desired amount, if they agree, they will sell.

6. Savanxay Market

Only about 100 meters from the central bus station, Savanxay Market is a very interesting shopping destination and is especially visited by many tourists.

In addition to the popular items often seen when traveling in the market, such as fresh food and meat, this place is also famous for specialties food in Laos. The most popular attraction in this market is the rich and diverse souvenirs, handicrafts stalls with exquisite products, the brocade with the unique traditional ornament in Laos.

Source : Internet