To help get this section of the forum started here is an update on the issue of visas for Laos. Most of you probably know this already but most travel books and some web sites have the old information. Visa are now issued on arrival at most land crossings (except from Cambodia) and the three major airports. Whereas in the past it was good for 15 days it is now good for 30 (the same as you used to get when issued directly by a Lao embassy. The fee is now based on the country of your passport but in most cases is still $30. Canada is an exception at $42. The main Thailand land crossings are Friendship Bridge across the Mekong between Nong Khai and Vientiane, Huay Xai (also Houayxay)/Chiang Khong in northern Thailand, Tha Khaek / Nakhon Phanom and Savannakhet / Mukdahan. Note that at the land boarder crossing for Pakse, no visa is currently available.