Laos | Expert Panel
Today we’re headed a bit off the beaten path, to Southeast Asia, and visiting the country of Lao. Lao or Laos means Land of a Million Elephants which is a symbol for prosperity – but the main draw to the country is the warm hospitality of its people.
Whether you’re visiting to see spectacular waterfalls and jungle scenery, learn about the history of this melting pot country, or simply immerse into the authentic culture – Lao is a place that captures hearts.
My guests today are Tara Gujadhur who runs the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre in Lao, Rachel O’Shea who founded the Laos Buffalo Dairy, and JB Richards our partner in the region and expert in all things Southeast Asia.
We chat about everything from the importance of preserving traditional crafts, to the process of making cheese from buffalo milk, to amazing experiences you can have getting to know the locals.
Listen to hear:
- 02:12 – About the view from their favorite spots in Laos
- 04:18 – Why JB chose Tara and Rachel as guest speakers
- 05:37 – How Rachel started the buffalo dairy farm
- 09:40 – What Tara’s mission in protecting ethnic heritage is
- 13:59 – About the different regions of the country
- 18:11 – How such a small country has a great cuisine and what shapes it
- 21:01 – About the history of textiles in the country and its importance
- 24:10 – What the foot etiquette in Laos is
- 28:14 – Why buffalo has a cultural meaning to the Laotians
- 29:50 – About the specifics of the Laotian culture
- 31:35 – What unique and luxury experiences they do for their visitors
- 40:19 – How they have favorite memories of past guests
- 45:31 – About their favorite choices here
- 49:24 – What you will learn about the world and humanity by visiting Laos
