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Adapting to life in Laos

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stumpy

When you move, the pace of life will differ from what you know and are used to, especially if you have never been to an Asian country before.

Can be a little overwhelming at first.

You should allow time to adapt as there will be adjustments along with surprises.

How have you adapted to things like shopping, getting around, language, work hours'

How did you find people, helpful or otherwise.

Please feel free to share your experiences and advice.

MNissen

One surprise I found, when I'd been in Laos for a few weeks, was turning up to a meeting at Khop Chai Deu and apologising for being 10 minutes late.

They laughed, and laughed.

That's when I learnt that Lao will often, when presented with an appointment time, treat it as the time to stand up and get ready to leave for the appointment, not the time to be at the appointment.

I'm now married to a Lao (10 yrs) so I know this to be true.

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stumpy

Never any apology needed for tardy arrival 1f606.svg

Had same when organizing meetings with contractors. Just had to accept it.