Is it possible to have black and white film developed in Vientiane?  Or to even purchase film?  Or do I need to invest in a digital camera before moving there...

Does Laos have any high tech gadgets for sale?
I'm not talking about those cheap $5 Chinese knock-offs! But more about the better performed Japanese templates.

I also heard that the price tag for authentic devices in Laos is comparble to the West. I also heard they are sold in proper stores (not in the flea markets). No bargaining! Is this true?

How about answering questions in the second paragraph?

Is it true or what?

Admin Saovaluck wrote on 1^st Apr, 2011 at 5:29am:


That's because they come from China! If they were made in Japan, they would be BETER!

It doesn't matter what countries the items come from. Lesser quality goods from China are dumped in Laos, and yes Japanese items are better, but they may have minor flaws and these are also dumped in Laos. The customs in the West are more strict about what goes into their country, and the Chinese and Japanese are aware of this.

A mini mart is basically a small supermarket. Just bargain like you would when you bargain for a house in your country. You know when you have a deal if you are prepared to pay for it, and if you don't want it then just walk away. If they are desperate to sell it then they will lower their price and ask you to come back.

That's what most locals do. They don't say "thank you for your time" or "have a nice day".

Just walk away is the norm.

Admin Saovaluck wrote on 1^st Apr, 2011 at 9:53pm:


I know in China sometimes you get yelled at if you take a long time to decide on what items you want to purchase.  But, indeed we do need to get our Lao people to work on customer service.

Where's the best place in Vientiane to buy fish from?
This is a serious question, with no pun intended. I don't mean fish fished from the Mekong too. Imported fish.