============================== LAOS ============================== Laos is a landlocked country in southeast Asia, which is ruggedly mountainous apart from the Mekong River plains along its border with Thailand. The Annam Mountains form a natural border with Vietnam. It has a tropical monsoon climate. Laos is one of the poorest countries in the world, and its development has been retarded by war, droughts and floods. The principle crop is rice, grown on small peasant plots. Area (Sq. Km.): 236,797 Population: 4,070,000 Capital: Vientiane Language: Lao Religion: Buddhist 50% Tribal beliefs 50% Government Type: People's Republic Currency: Kip Embassy: None «»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«» Foreign Office Advice: Normal care and precautions should be taken. For more information ring: Foreign Office Travel Unit 0171-270-4129