This post is to highlight one of the
safety concerns the traveler should understand before entering the country. But
first a brief history few realize or understand.
During the Vietnam war, between
the years of 1964-1973 the country was bombed to such an extent that it is
considered the most bombed country in the world as measured by per capita
population count.
As a result of this, there are
areas of the country which have many unexploded cluster bombs and other type of
unexploded ordnance.
For the traveler who is going to Laos ,
in most cases it will be safe in the cities and most of the highly traveled
tourist locations.
However, the real danger that
exists are in those areas of the country where a traveler might venture into
and if doing so, one must use extreme caution when going to these areas.
The conventional wisdom is when
going into these areas, especially if walking any trails, it is extremely
important to stay on the trail at all times. If you are with a guide, make sure
that he knows the local area very well and where the potential for dangers are.
Also, make absolutely sure that you listen to the guide’s information
concerning the dangers of going off trail on your own for exploration.
To read about this subject in
more detail, especially concerning the amount of ordinance dropped and areas
that are highly effected, click this link here and you will go to the web site
of Legacies of War.
This web site will provide a
comprehensive look at the numbers and maps of the highly effected areas in the
country.
Another web site gives statistics in an easier format so click here for this information.
This post is not to scare you but
to inform the unsuspecting traveler of such dangers which very little is
written about.
Travel Safe, Travel Happy