Traveling to Laos is an incredible experience, with beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. But, as a Korean traveler, you might find the language barrier challenging at first. Learning some basic phrases in Lao can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. This guide will introduce essential phrases, greetings, and polite expressions to help you communicate effectively in Laos. Plus, learning these phrases adds a special touch to your travel, as the locals appreciate efforts to speak their language.
Let’s dive into some basic Lao phrases that will make your trip a breeze.
1. Basic Lao Greetings and Introductions
Knowing a few greetings goes a long way in showing respect to the people you meet. Here are a few basics:
- Hello: “Sabai Dee” (사바이디)
- Thank you: “Khob Chai” (고브 차이)
- Excuse me / Sorry: “Khaw Thot” (카오 톳)
- Goodbye: “La Khon” (라콘)
When saying “Hello” or “Thank you,” you can add the polite expression “사바라오” for extra respect, a phrase often used to show friendliness.
2. Numbers and Counting
Getting comfortable with numbers can be helpful when shopping, ordering food, or asking about prices. Here are the numbers one to ten in Lao:
- One – “Nung” (눙)
- Two – “Song” (송)
- Three – “Sam” (삼)
- Four – “Si” (씨)
- Five – “Ha” (하)
- Six – “Hok” (혹)
- Seven – “Jet” (젯)
- Eight – “Paet” (패엣)
- Nine – “Kao” (카오)
- Ten – “Sip” (십)
Use these numbers to say simple quantities or understand basic prices while shopping.
3. Common Phrases for Travelers
Here are some key phrases that will be useful in various situations, from dining out to asking for directions.
- How much is this? – “Laka Tao Dai?” (라카 타오 다이?)
- Where is the bathroom? – “Hong Nam Yu Sai?” (홍 남 유 사이?)
- I don’t understand. – “Khaw Jai Baw” (카오 자이 바오)
- Help! – “Choi Duay!” (초이 두아이!)
These simple phrases can make your interactions easier and help you find what you need without too much trouble.
4. Ordering Food and Drinks
Lao cuisine is full of delicious flavors, and ordering food can be a delightful experience. Here’s how to order food and drinks:
- I would like this – “Khonyak Kin” (콘야크 킨)
- Delicious! – “Sep Lai” (셉 라이)
- Water – “Nam” (남)
- Not too spicy, please – “Bo Pen Phet” (보 펜 펫)
If you’d like to say “thank you” after a meal, remember “Khob Chai” and, for added politeness, add “사바라오” to express genuine appreciation.
5. Essential Phrases for Shopping and Bargaining
Shopping in Laos, especially at local markets, can be an exciting experience. Here are some useful expressions:
- Is there a discount? – “Mi Lod Dai Baw?” (미 로드 다이 바오?)
- That’s too expensive – “Paeng Lai” (팽 라이)
- I’ll take it – “Khonyak Sue Nyang” (콘야크 수에 냥)
Shopping is also a great chance to interact with locals, and even if you only know a few phrases, they will appreciate your efforts.
6. Getting Around: Asking for Directions
Whether you’re exploring Vientiane or Luang Prabang, you may need help finding your way. Here are some helpful phrases:
- Where is…? – “Yu Sai?” (유 사이?)
- Go straight – “Pai Thong Pai” (파이 통 파이)
- Turn left/right – “Leua Sai / Leua Khwa” (레우아 사이 / 레우아 쿠아)
- Stop here, please – “Yut Thi Ni, Khop Jai” (윳 티 니, 콥 차이)
These expressions can be handy when you’re using a tuk-tuk or taxi to get around.
7. Respect and Politeness: Lao Etiquette
Respect and politeness are highly valued in Lao culture. Adding “사바라오” or a simple smile can go a long way in making a positive impression. Always greet with a friendly “Sabai Dee” when meeting someone, and remember to avoid raising your voice, as staying calm and respectful is key in Laos.
8. Key Takeaways: Practice Makes Perfect
Learning these phrases can enhance your experience and help you feel more connected with the people around you. Don’t worry if you don’t pronounce everything perfectly—the effort is what counts. And if you forget a word, a smile and a polite “사바라오” can bridge any language gap.
Whether you’re shopping, exploring, or dining, these phrases should help make your journey more memorable. Enjoy your travels, and have fun communicating in Laos!
