Often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbours, Laos remains one of Southeast Asia’s most beguiling destinations. It is a landlocked country, known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries. The country retains a slow, rather old-fashioned charm, and its people – incredibly laidback and friendly, even by Asian standards are undoubtedly one of the highlights of any visit. The official tourism slogan is "Simply Beautiful".