Laos, Vientiane Cost of Living April 2010

Country Full Name: Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Location: Laos is in Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand, west of Vietnam.

Country Climate: Tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to April).

Country Terrain: Mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus.

Major Languages: Lao, French (for diplomatic purposes).

Major Religions: Buddhism.

Country Population: 6.3 million (2008 est.) 6.4 million (2009 est.).

Country Economy: The economy of Laos is heavily dependent on investment and trade with its neighbors, Thailand, Vietnam, and, especially in the north, China. Much of the country lacks adequate infrastructure. Subsistence agriculture still accounts for half of the GDP and provides 80 percent of employment.

Currency: Lao Kip (LAK).

Country Inflation: 7.6% (2008 est.) 0.2% (2009 est.).

City: Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos.

City Economy: Vientiane is situated on a bend of the Mekong river, which forms the border with Thailand at this point. A short link connects Vientiane with Thailand over the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge.
Cost of Living: Vientiane has an overall cost of living index which equates it with low cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups. Vientiane is currently ranked 252 overall, most expensive place in the world for expatriates to live, out of 282 international locations.

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