Vientiane - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
You can get by with no Lao language, but you will hit stopping points. Local teachers and tutors are plentiful, though the quality is debatable. - Dec 2024
You don't need to know Lao to live here. There are many expats and the places expats generally go to usually have some English fluency. The Embassy offers Lao classes and there are a few Lao classes/tutors that are affordable. - Mar 2024
Knowing the basics is key! Especially for grocery shopping and getting around. You will find people that speak English (esp. in Vientiane and Luang Prabang), but it will be difficult to get around if you have no knowledge of the language. You will also have a hard time connecting with the local community. Classes and tutors are available at the French Institute or privately. - Mar 2023
You can get by without Lao, but life will definitely be easier if you can speak a little. You should not assume that people will be able to speak English. - Jun 2020
It's helpful, perhaps even very helpful, to have the local language, but it's not absolutely necessary. There are classes/tutors, but the language is challenging to learn. - Oct 2018
Learn it. It's difficult, especially with all the tones, but the Lao are so sweet and forgiving of your mistakes as you try to speak to them in their language. Many shop owners know enough English. Hand gestures can get you pretty far,too. - Jan 2014
