🇱🇦 My 8 hrs inside the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone

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  • čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
  • #laos #Thegoldentriangle #thegoldentrianglespecialeconomiczone
    Hi folks, NatNomad here. An ex-Buddhist monk from Laos with a big dream of seeing the world. Throughout my time for over 10 years being a monk I kept asking myself this one question "What life is like out there beyond the monastery?" And because of this question alone made me take a big step in 2014 when I finally say goodbye to my wonderful monastic life.
    And now I'm doing what I've always wanted to do. Though I am not quite sure if I can say that I'm living my dream but you know what I'm loving my new adventure.
    Please make sure to stick with me so we can explore new exotic places together.
    Let the adventures begin!
    Thanks so much for your support.

Komentáře • 265

  • @user-rm1me3zm6x
    @user-rm1me3zm6x Před 4 dny +1

    Wow, that's look modern and beautiful, wish the tourism and investment would benefit Laos' economy

  • @Namoari941
    @Namoari941 Před 3 měsíci +6

    One things we need to understand that, Chinese investments have helped these poor SE Asian countries develop fast, bringing jobs and prosperity, it may also caused some skepticism and criticism too(thanked to anti-China media). In the past 10 years, things had progressed very good and fast, then came the pandemic(covid-19), therefore,most developments came to halted and delayed(but not abandoned or gone bankrupted), thats why we see a lot of unfinished projects in Cambodia, Laos, and all over the world as well, but now those constructions coming alive and slowly recovering, and things will looking much better in the years to come.

    • @ngothuat2045
      @ngothuat2045 Před 3 měsíci

      I think what you say is correct, but we must also consider the harmful effects and political desires of China. China invests not for charity, they want profit and influence. Take a look at the casinos and online scams in Cambodia, most of which are Chinese. China's public projects in Sri Lanka caused the country to default on its debt. Chinese public projects in Vietnam either triple their capital or stop operating. I agree that Western media exaggerates about China, we can't trust them 100%, but we also shouldn't trust China's media.

  • @nanagsoum3841
    @nanagsoum3841 Před 2 měsíci +4

    Sabaidee Nat, I’m from Laos 🇱🇦 but live in USA 🇺🇸. Its very sad to see our country got took over by China 🇨🇳 😢

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci

      Sabaidee, thanks for the greeting.
      It is sad really, but for the sake of progress and development, we have to accept it this way as we can't afford to do it ourselves.
      Let's hope for the best

    • @DW-op7ly
      @DW-op7ly Před 12 dny

      Ethnic Chinese dominate the economies of all of SE Asia...
      Atleast they are not causing the demise of people like you Americans are
      As your military is causing the demise of people in 20 countries in just Africa alone...
      Simply because the religion these people practice in these African countries is deemed too strict for yourAmerican Government liking, to Govern that a African Nation

    • @noindemnity-en1yd
      @noindemnity-en1yd Před dnem

      Why don't ask the country you are residing now to go and help your country.

  • @title7007
    @title7007 Před 3 měsíci +3

    my first time watching your channel from Thailand and firstly surprise I thought you are a westerner because your looks and secondly surprise you are our neighbor country, but your English is amazing and finally your story had been being a monk before choosing a new life travelling. sorry for my poor English and hope you come to visit our country someday in the future it may increases your followers.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thank you for the greeting, Sawaddeee Krup😊
      I like Thailand and Thai food a lot, I've been to Bangkok many times and up north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. Beautiful places.
      Thanks for watching my videos krup🙏😊

  • @ELCEV
    @ELCEV Před 3 měsíci +6

    The Chinese are very impressive builders. The modern city looks fantastic. This and the railway is a great benefit for the country. Thanks for such an informative video, this is an area I would never have the opportunity to explore. 👍

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      I was amazed that it only took 17 years to build this whole city up from the scratch. And with the fact that the construction was put on hold for two years due to the Covid, and look at it now.

    • @andyangchannel
      @andyangchannel Před 3 měsíci +3

      So impressive that they house criminal and criminal activities.

    • @ELCEV
      @ELCEV Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@andyangchannel Sure everyone is a criminal, too bad they are not saints like in every other country. Go back to your CNN 😂

    • @janushsol
      @janushsol Před 11 dny

      Do you know what you are talking about? The railway a great benefit? Only for the elite and for tourists. A one way ticket from Vientiane to Luang Prabang costs more than 40 USD; the median income in Lao PDR is 192 USD per month. Go figure! The Lao government took on an enormous debt to China to finance this pipe-dream, and now inflation is through the roof, which of course hits the poor. Poverty and malnutrition are on the rise. Don't get fooled by all the Chinese bling.

  • @GabrielSchaad
    @GabrielSchaad Před 3 měsíci +3

    Thanks again Nat: some of my Laotian friends work there and they describe the working conditions as demanding - I have the impression that people from neighboring countries are being exploited here. So it is both exciting and shocking for me to see what is happening here on Lao soil - thank you for sharing this with us in a neutral way

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thank you, too. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. It is interesting to see both sides of the coin. I hope everyone is safe.

  • @deuvang8361
    @deuvang8361 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Thank you Nat for this special video.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thank you for watching always🙏😊

  • @amphayvanhchittranonh5097

    Thanks for your video to tell us about this before we traveling to golden triangle thanks again

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 9 dny

      As of these days, things are getting improved a lot. Lao government is working hard trying to crackdown online fraud.

  • @citylifebackyard1496
    @citylifebackyard1496 Před měsícem

    Great information and a lot of details. This is more how it is like when you are visiting new countries. You will run into a lot of unexpected.

  • @tinnapobphengpom2374
    @tinnapobphengpom2374 Před 3 měsíci +2

    I am from Thailand , cheer❤

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thanks for the greeting. I love Thailand and the food. Cheers😊

  • @BenjiZiggy
    @BenjiZiggy Před 8 dny

    Not only they are taking golden triangle, they are taking everything, everywhere.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 7 dny

      Yes, Chinese and expanding their empire across the globe. A modern colonization.

  • @bryancole842
    @bryancole842 Před 3 měsíci

    Incredible to see this new city. You always seem so calm…😊

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I got panic a bit, but was trying to stay cool 😎

  • @SammyChannel-nw8tj
    @SammyChannel-nw8tj Před 3 měsíci +2

    Beautiful city.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Quite beautiful 😊

  • @baihum8861
    @baihum8861 Před 2 měsíci

    I like your Nat,thank you for sharing ❤

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci

      Thank you. I'm glad to hear that

  • @drmorales3009
    @drmorales3009 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I love your channel is very educational

  • @kingkeolaofl
    @kingkeolaofl Před měsícem

    Thanks so much for sharing 👍👏💪

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před měsícem

      Thank you for watching, too

  • @SKYBaal-ms6xw
    @SKYBaal-ms6xw Před 3 měsíci +2

    Its also good and bad way...What I read is people grown there vegetation fruits and vegetables... Support by SEC and get pick up and deliver to hotels and restaurants in SEC district Bring income to families live near the area.

  • @jim.pearsall
    @jim.pearsall Před 3 měsíci +11

    Looks similar to Sihanoukville in Cambodia. Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar are dominated by Chinese investors.

    • @viexay
      @viexay Před 3 měsíci +4

      Not just Laos, Cambodian... china people & business are everywhere !! Here in the US theirs a Chinatown like in almost every state.

    • @didineerod4371
      @didineerod4371 Před 3 měsíci +5

      Laos and Cambodia two most heavily bombed countries in history of any World Wars by the US. Between 14 December 1964 and 29 March 1973 Us dropped 260 millions bombs on Laos.
      One would imagine the yanks would come back, clean up the place, invest and rebuild these countries. Well, 51 years gone by still no sign of restitution.
      Btw, the place looks so clean! Was expecting litters every where.

    • @untouchablelah
      @untouchablelah Před 3 měsíci +1

      I've been to Sihanoukville and that is true. The Chinese in southeast Asia doesn't want to learn lao, only take over.

    • @maggiechan33
      @maggiechan33 Před 3 dny

      @@viexay
      WRONG !!!
      Where is the "Chinatown" in Kansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah , Montana ???

    • @maggiechan33
      @maggiechan33 Před 3 dny

      @@untouchablelah
      The Chinese were invited by the SEA goverments.

  • @WisdomTree2024
    @WisdomTree2024 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I get butterfly tummy when watching certain rural areas of Laos :)
    but this is certainly nice to see.
    As much as many lost of words, many things are still shady and uncommon for western norms.
    Anyhow, more power to you that you have courage to do this :)
    TYSM for sharing.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thank you for spreading kind words😊

    • @user-ce6zp7pg1n
      @user-ce6zp7pg1n Před 3 měsíci

      these countries were heavily bombed by the us so dont talk about western norms

  • @earnyours9236
    @earnyours9236 Před měsícem

    amazing. this is journalism. I wish i was on this adventure with you lol

  • @nickfreeman9751
    @nickfreeman9751 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Presenting Laos to the world

  • @user-ps9uz8yk7e
    @user-ps9uz8yk7e Před měsícem

    Thank you for sharing your trip. Actually I like to visit golden triangle Laos side.
    It’s very few information on CZcams. It’s really helpful clip.
    Wandering sisters Moe

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před měsícem

      I hope you'll come visit someday. Maybe in 5 years' time when everyone finishes, it'd be much more beautiful

    • @user-ps9uz8yk7e
      @user-ps9uz8yk7e Před měsícem

      @@natnomad actually I have a plan visit on next month. When I visit, I want to share my experience too.
      Wandering sisters Moe

  • @franklaoshi7527
    @franklaoshi7527 Před 2 měsíci

    I used this road from Huai xai to GT hundreds of times… sweet memories

  • @DavidLovesDarya
    @DavidLovesDarya Před 3 měsíci +2

    Sabaidi Nat, I started watching your channel a couple months ago because my parents are from Lao. Can you post a donation link or something ? I enjoy watching your videos. Can't wait to see more of Laos.

    • @viexay
      @viexay Před 3 měsíci +1

      Yeah he should add the 'super thanks" on .

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Sabaidee, thank you for the greetings. And thanks for following my journey, I'm happy to hear that you enjoyed it.
      I've thought about adding super thanks but I feel embarrassed 😁hehe.
      One when I add on I'll let you know. Thanks very much😊🙏

    • @DavidLovesDarya
      @DavidLovesDarya Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@natnomad
      No need to be embarrassed.
      Most of us living here in the U.S. come from Laos or have parents that come from Laos because the war back then. Also I have some church friends over there as well. Take Care !

  • @Uscitizeninlaos
    @Uscitizeninlaos Před 3 měsíci +2

    look like you are in China. Have fun Nat and travel safe.😊

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +4

      That's how I felt walking around. It's like a country within a country.
      It's good to see it😊

  • @seanwang2501
    @seanwang2501 Před 3 měsíci +8

    Have been there for 4 times, i love your cultures, but cops are dreadful nuisance on my trips in Laos, they keep asking for money for whatever reasons.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Oh I'm sorry to hear that. It is annoying, really. And I hope they do something about it

    • @dshchannel6259
      @dshchannel6259 Před 3 měsíci +1

      I visited Laos in 2016 during April during the water festival. A border police made it hard for me ro enter from Nan Thailand, the next night he saw me in Luangprabang he begged me for money to buy beer. I gave him $200,000 kip. Terrible

    • @seanwang2501
      @seanwang2501 Před 3 měsíci

      @@dshchannel6259 last time I entered Laos driving from China , a traffic cop stopped me saying I was speeding. What’s funny is they even had no any radar devices to detect the speed, I was like I am not speeding all u want is nothing but money, guess how much he SUCCESSFULLY took from me? 10,000 kips LOL it can’t even buy a Lao beer.

    • @andyangchannel
      @andyangchannel Před 3 měsíci

      Just avoid anything run by Chinese, those things have no business in SEA historically except to extort the locals

  • @CherryBoyReloaded
    @CherryBoyReloaded Před měsícem

    Well produced...

  • @user-kc2uq6zt8t
    @user-kc2uq6zt8t Před 3 měsíci

    From Thailand I love you Laos 🧡🧡🧡👍👍👍

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thank you. I love Thailand and Thai food too, Bangkok is my street food heaven 😍😍🙏🙏

  • @keosavathph9564
    @keosavathph9564 Před 3 měsíci

    Very nice clip, the place is beautiful, but no Lao people there! Ha ! ATM is not working? Thank you for sharing! Enjoy your day!

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I don't know why the ATM didn't work, could be because of the sanction. My card usually works fine anywhere. I think most people are inside those buildings. Like the young man I talked to in the van said, they work from 9am-11pm from Mondays to Saturdays

  • @franklaoshi7527
    @franklaoshi7527 Před 2 měsíci

    I used to stay in GT for a year back in 2016-17 and it was totally different from now. It wasn’t locked as it’s now.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci

      Wow, I wish I saw it back then.

  • @samsayasane1934
    @samsayasane1934 Před 3 měsíci

    Thanks for the tour 🎉🎉🎉

  • @manusananikone9216
    @manusananikone9216 Před 3 měsíci

    Très beau reportage,merci

  • @viexay
    @viexay Před 3 měsíci +2

    Omg ! I can't believe you went there. But I'm gald you cover that part of Laos. I told you, you don't look Lao. That's why they kept asking are you Lao. Ha ! Stay safe in the part of lao/china region. Gosh your English is so proficient.

    • @untouchablelah
      @untouchablelah Před 3 měsíci

      Are Lao Americans welcome there?

    • @viexay
      @viexay Před 3 měsíci

      @untouchablelah yeah I heard something like that, Americans are not allowed inside the golden triangle casino. But definitely i know you can travel there. I seen this one Caucasian youtuber man he had went there, but could not enter into the casino.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thank you for your compliment on my English😊
      Back home safe and sound now.
      It was good to see it finally.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      You can travel there holding an American passport, but you have to register at the checkpoint where I showed my ID Card. Though I'm not sure if that's also including detaining your passport while you're inside the zone.

    • @jsmoov2156
      @jsmoov2156 Před 3 měsíci

      What do lao people look like?

  • @paige961
    @paige961 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I'm glad you went there to see what it was like. It definitely felt like you were in a totally different country. It's a shame that a Lao citizen had such a difficult time navigating that area, especially since you were technically still in Laos. I hope you made it back home safely and found something nice to eat. Thanks for sharing your travels, Nat. ❤

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Back home safe and sound. Thank you for keeping up with my new episodes😊🙏
      It is a very interesting place to be in for a day, so different from Laos. It's more like a country within a country, with their own rules and regulations.

  • @otisotis5869
    @otisotis5869 Před 3 měsíci

    OMG .... while I was in Chaing Khon, which was about 60 Kms from the SEZ, I wanted to visit that area and learned that I could take a bus from Chaing Khon to a border town on the Thai side, then take a ferry across to the SZE as long as I had a Laotian visa. I had a visa, but once I went to seek out transport, all vendors turned me away , telling me Americans were not allowed in the SZE from the Thai side (this was in 2018), maybe it has changed, but since then I have heard so many stories, that I would not even want to visit it now. Especially the ATM situation! SOrry, you couldn't get some cash. Nevertheless, I am thankful that you did visit the SZE and your video really was very helpful and covered alot. Thanks for sharing!

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Seems alright now. I saw some foreigners went there. You just have to show the passport to the authorities when they come check the van. And some questions to answer such as what's your purpose of visit, where and how long you stay. You will have to register at the checkpoint before you enter their zone. To be fair, there's not much to see there.

  • @havechopstickswilltravel2990
    @havechopstickswilltravel2990 Před 3 měsíci +6

    This is very sad to see. Seems like Lao people is being pushed blindly out of their homeland. Thank you for showing us the this and thanks for telling the history as well Nat.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +3

      It is interesting to see what's going on there, but at the same time, you can't help but scratch your head and wonder.
      Thanks for keeping up with my adventure always

    • @user-oi4wl3fz2h
      @user-oi4wl3fz2h Před 3 měsíci

      เพราะรัฐบาลฉลาดส่องใสในขายสัมปทาน

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @havechopstickswilltravel2990: That area is a 99 year lease. You can learn more here: Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel and here: "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024.

  • @Freedom-33
    @Freedom-33 Před 2 měsíci

    This place reminds me a little of Phu Quoc Vietnam
    Same type of development with mostly vacant buildings

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci

      I see. Many compared it to Sihanoukville.

  • @ChrisFritze
    @ChrisFritze Před 3 měsíci +1

    Very interesting video! Thanks for sharing some insights of the SEZ. You said that foreigners have to register before they want to go inside. Do you know where and how?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +2

      Hi Chris, I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
      As a foreigner you have to register at the checkpoint where i showed my passport. I'm not sure though if that's also including getting your passport detained while you're in the zone. And besides before you arrive in Ton Pheung there are two police checkpoints that the van has to stop and the authority will come inspect the van, if any foreigner inside they will ask for your passport and some other question like what's the purpose of going there, where you stay and for how long...etc

    • @ChrisFritze
      @ChrisFritze Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@natnomad all right. Thanks for sharing these information. 🙏

  • @vanphongsavan3119
    @vanphongsavan3119 Před 3 měsíci +1

    , Very sad what's happening this place now, I used to work here back in before 1975 since ever been back to visited, I am so sad and too said for beautiful old city, miss back then! Thank you for your experiencing sharing the world for eyes openner!!

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      I can't imagine what it used to look like in the 70s

    • @vanphongsavan3119
      @vanphongsavan3119 Před 3 měsíci

      @@natnomad , More media of the truth is in fact of transparency to be judged in the future times journey!!

  • @leesinnorai1871
    @leesinnorai1871 Před 3 měsíci

    Enjoyed your time !

  • @roryo1970
    @roryo1970 Před 3 měsíci +1

    It’s hard to believe this is really part of Laos. Quite disturbing really. Well done for showing the world this.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Totally agree. It's more like a country within a country. So different, not even Lao currency is accepted here. But it is so nice to see it.

  • @shaqisumari304
    @shaqisumari304 Před 3 měsíci

    Its clean very good

  • @jdavies212msu
    @jdavies212msu Před 2 měsíci

    Wow, what an eye-opener.
    As you said, like a country within a country: their rules, their money, their expensive prices, their architecture, have to show your ID to see your own country.
    This makes me sad for some reason. 😢

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci

      Yes, in Laos but not Laos at the same time. Kind of weird to be in there but it was good to experience it

  • @TheWanderingKid
    @TheWanderingKid Před 3 měsíci

    You not even being able to use your own currency in your own country...
    Unreal!
    Thanks for the video, Nat!
    I await to see you again in places that are more of your element!

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thanks bro, it is a very interesting place to be in and to see it for a day. Sadly the Lao currency is not accepted, but again, as the name itself suggested, "The special economic zone" they have their own rules and regulations.

    • @mabo9636
      @mabo9636 Před 3 měsíci

      in the huay xai area Thai baht is more commonly used and also in some Myanmar Thai city such like tachliek

    • @Namoari941
      @Namoari941 Před 3 měsíci +2

      People CAN use Laos currency there, the government does not ban the Kip, it’s the business(both Chinese and and Laotian)who are preferred the Yuan over the Kip, because the Chinese currency is stronger, worths more and convenient to buy Chinese goods later on, every poor countries like to attract hard currency to improve their economy, its happening all over the world: in Cuba, most businesses only except USD over Cuban Peso, even in VN too, Vietnamese business preferred the Dollar over Vietnamese currency. However,,,,,no matter what, anti-China people will always criticize China, and blame Laos governments , ignoring the hardship of locals.

  • @noodles888
    @noodles888 Před 3 měsíci

    I noticed when visiting Laos, majority of CZcamsrs do not explore or talk about other parts of Laos such as the Sayaboury area where Muang Phiang people live.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      True, I may pay a visit in the future and do some tours around that area

  • @DavidLovesDarya
    @DavidLovesDarya Před 3 měsíci +6

    Nice to see the economic development in that zone with the collaboration of China Lao Thailand and Myanmar. Especially with those commercial or residential real estate which means more business opportunities.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +2

      I think in the future it'll become a main hub for both trading and home to the elite.

    • @Mikomido5
      @Mikomido5 Před 3 měsíci +4

      It’s not really nice if you think about it long term. China is changing the landscape and I honestly don’t think it’s for the best. It’s a strategy that will benefit them in the long run and poorer countries will be in debt to them. I can’t speak for Laos or other countries, but I am aware Thailand is concerned about falling into China’s debt trap and destroying of the country’s nature and deforestation.

    • @user-yt6de9mn3y
      @user-yt6de9mn3y Před 3 měsíci +3

      @@Mikomido5but now the Thai pm is ditching the USD for the yuan. This is part of the chinafication process. Politicians in Laos have benefited from selling their country to the Chinese but the people have lost their future. Laos is being trampled on.

    • @didineerod4371
      @didineerod4371 Před 3 měsíci +1

      @@Mikomido5 According to the World Bank, UNdata, Trading Economic - Thailand GDP Per Capital growth in Dec 2022 increased from previous year to 2.5% but dropped to 1.9% at end of 2023 due to Political unrest.The country still manages to maintain a strong economic growth despite that. Thailand is no position fall in debt.. As to deforestation, between 2000 and 2008, the Thai Government made a commitment to accelerate urbanisation to accommodate the growing populations. Bangkok is the most populous city, being the 5th largest city in East Asia, with heavy traffic congestions, pollutions, and housing affordability. In 2018 with EU funding, Thai Government launched the Smart City Programme to promote digital technologies and innovations for urban and industrial development. The changing landscape has nothing to do with China. Its the Thai government initiatives doing what is best for her country economic growth and sustainability for Thai population growth.

    • @dlcc012david
      @dlcc012david Před 3 měsíci

      ​@@Mikomido5always remember rumours, lies n propaganda r carried by haters, spread by fools n accepted by idiots 😂

  • @PhanOT11
    @PhanOT11 Před 3 měsíci

    I wanna try that same trip one day.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      It's worth to check it out

  • @BoaSavanh
    @BoaSavanh Před 2 měsíci +2

    By the way “Tob chat” or “called-center” is con jobs, what kind of government supporting con jobs? I’m afraid that one day Laotian will not know the difference good and evil. Sad when you have to con people to make a living

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Lao government is doing their part to tackle this online scamming operation if you read the news. Last week, 84 Chinese nationals were deported back to China in relating to the online fraud coming from the SEZ.

  • @nickfreeman9751
    @nickfreeman9751 Před 3 měsíci

    Good job

  • @SammyChannel-nw8tj
    @SammyChannel-nw8tj Před 3 měsíci

    omg 😱 I feel so bad for you, can get no money 💴. that’s good 👍 you got some snack with you. hope you’re doing ok 👌. take care. fc from USA 🇺🇸

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I know, it was frustrating trying to get money out of the ATM. Thanks to my snacks that saved me for the day hehe. Thank you brother for always keeping up with my new adventure.

    • @SammyChannel-nw8tj
      @SammyChannel-nw8tj Před 3 měsíci

      @@natnomad I’m a lady

  • @-jn1jp
    @-jn1jp Před 3 měsíci

    ເຈົ້າເວົ້າພາສາລາວໄດ້ເກັ່ງຫຼາຍ❤

  • @kengkmitl34
    @kengkmitl34 Před 3 měsíci

    I have been there. Actually Thai baht is also widely accepted and it is better to use Thai baht since it's cheaper.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I see, thanks for the information. I'll keep that for my next visit 😊

  • @vsp2801
    @vsp2801 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I heard soon over there won’t be any Laotian ppl left that true ? Sad to hear that Laos already small country and beautiful, now we let other taking advanced !

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      I don't think that Lao people would want to live in this part of Laos anyway. Most people go there just for work, for a short term and then I leave.

    • @mabo9636
      @mabo9636 Před 3 měsíci

      For Thailand Myanmar laos. to develop economy there is huge challenging. why las vegas allow gambling while other state do not. the gambling activity however need to be well regulated which inevitably will attract some illict activity such as loan shark, extortion or even kidnapping

  • @earnyours9236
    @earnyours9236 Před měsícem

    you should of went during the night time. thats where the real adventure is

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před měsícem

      I'd like to go back there again to film during the night someday

  • @BoaSavanh
    @BoaSavanh Před 2 měsíci +3

    Well, are you going to say that the day the train opened was the day Lao economy collapsed. Look at the Laotian now, everyone is longing to get out of the country, what a sad life. There are many reasons contributing to Lao economy collapsing but one of them is the debt from the train. Laotians have never been this poor before maybe the same situation as in 1975 - 1980 when the first communist took over.

  • @benleno
    @benleno Před 3 měsíci

    I went to a wedding in Ton Pheeng district in 2009. I wouldn't recognise it from this video.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      It has changed so much

  • @jasminelee979
    @jasminelee979 Před 3 měsíci

    Hi Nat👍❤️this is my first time that I came across your channel. I find that your channel is very educational, especially to younger generation whom don’t have opportunity to explore Northern part of their own country. I just hope people who watched your clips can segregate and see the difference of how it’s being managed in Northern part of Laos. This is Laos country, my question is; why they using Chinese currency? I’m pretty sure majority of people would have the same question. Thanks Nat for sharing this video👍enjoy your adventure and be safe out there !

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thank you for the greetings.
      The reason that they prefer Chinese Yuan over Lao currency is because there is no trade deal between the Lao government and this particular zone. And most of the people living here are Chinese investors. Lao people only come for work and they leave. That's why i didn't feel like i was in Laos. And also the name itself says a lot about the place "The special economic zone" is fully run by the private investors so they have their own rules and regulations

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @jasminelee979: You can learn more here: "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024. And here: "Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel.

  • @LoneStar96
    @LoneStar96 Před 3 měsíci

    Hi Nat. What is the name of that tree behind you with orange flower? Thanks. BTW, love all your videos. Very informative.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Umm...I honestly don't know what it call. We have quite a few flowers that look like that, it can be Dok Koun flower or something like that.
      Thanks for watching the video. I am glad that you enjoyed it

    • @LoneStar96
      @LoneStar96 Před 3 měsíci

      @@natnomad thanks Nat. I think I know the English name but not the Lao name for it. The tree like the one on this video at @17:44 . It is is call by few names and one is Flame Tree (Delonix regia). I think it is the same as the one in a mosaic wall at Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang.

  • @-jn1jp
    @-jn1jp Před 3 měsíci +1

    🙏🇱🇦♥️

  • @hodongdinh1
    @hodongdinh1 Před 2 měsíci

    Thanks for the show, Nat. It looks very sad, you can't even use Laotian kip in your country 😞 It reminds me of Bokor Hill and Sihanoukville in Cambodia, I visited 5 years ago which I felt like I lost in China. I heard Boten, Laos has the same issue - A China town instead of Laos town. I feel sorry for your country and other countries nearby. You can't choose neighbors just as you can't choose close relatives.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Yes, it is completely different from the rest of Laos. It's more like a country within the country that has its own rules and regulations.

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny +1

      Laos willingly chose to create this area. You can learn more here: "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024. And here: "Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel.

    • @hodongdinh1
      @hodongdinh1 Před 13 dny

      Thank you for the video. It's really sad 😞I totally agree with you, without receiving the help from someone there, I don't think Zhao Wei could commit those criminal activities at GTSEZ in Laos.

    • @hodongdinh1
      @hodongdinh1 Před 13 dny

      I just read this story on Diplomat, "Inside Southeast Asia’s Casino Scam Archipelago". It confirms what you said when a local government official in Mae Sai, Thailand, said that "Laos can’t do anything there. If Lao police go inside they need to leave their guns. Even if they kill someone, the Lao government has to ask permission to come into Kings Romans. They have their own law."

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 13 dny

      @@natnomad
      Lao and Chinese security forces detained 771 people in the Golden Triangle Special Economic Zone during a joint operation conducted ahead of a deadline for illegal call centers in the notorious zone to close. August 21, 2024 Among the 771 people detained were 275 Laotians, 231 Burmese and 108 Chinese, the ministry said. Other nationalities included people from the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Ethiopia and Vietnam.
      “Most of them are just workers who were hired to work at the centers,” a ministry official told Radio Free Asia. “It’s a form of human trafficking because they were lured to come to the SEZ to work at stores or restaurants, but later they were forced to work as scammers.”

  • @johnmongkhounsavath3678
    @johnmongkhounsavath3678 Před 3 měsíci

    👍👍👍

  • @marcusmaunula5018
    @marcusmaunula5018 Před 3 měsíci

    As long as it is sustainable it is good. I also hope they take care of those scammers I have read about.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Hopefully they'll keep it healthy😊

    • @marcusmaunula5018
      @marcusmaunula5018 Před 3 měsíci

      @@natnomad In todays climate it should be harder to do violence on nature. At least publically China claims to take sustainability seriously. I hope Laos makes sure they do.

    • @ricavilaychit9218
      @ricavilaychit9218 Před 3 měsíci

      you're probably unintentionally break their law,

    • @marcusmaunula5018
      @marcusmaunula5018 Před 3 měsíci

      @@ricavilaychit9218 I don't see how they wouldn't be aware of the environmental laws. I assume they are clear in Laos? There are of course international agreements too to consider.

  • @RobotsWithKnivesCartoons
    @RobotsWithKnivesCartoons Před 3 měsíci

    Was that a Wise card you used before using a BCEL card? Things have gotten easier for me in Laos since I got a BCEL account but the Wise card has been great for travel, pretty sad if both aren't working in the area.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      Yes, the wise card. It has been so useful for travelling

  • @user-wk6lq2lf2m
    @user-wk6lq2lf2m Před 3 měsíci

    Thank you Nat, please let us know how you go back with out any cash ?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I called the motorbike guy who dropped me off, he accepted Lao Kip via qr code transfer. And for the bus back to Luang Prabang I also paid via the QR Code

  • @taveltube2822
    @taveltube2822 Před měsícem

    Would you like to tell me how much the speed train ticket Vientiane to Nateuy? Can I get it from counter on the day?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před měsícem

      For the slower train K12 that leaves from Vientiane at 8:42am cost 394,000 Kip. Faster train C82 leaves at 13:30pm cost 547,000 Kip
      You can get the ticket at the counter but is recommended to get it a day before hand because sometimes it is sold out. I mean you can try.

    • @taveltube2822
      @taveltube2822 Před měsícem

      @@natnomad thank you for your kind information

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před měsícem

      My pleasure, good luck and enjoy your trip🙂

  • @ngothuat2045
    @ngothuat2045 Před 3 měsíci

    Hi Nat, love your vid. I am fr Hanoi. Do you have plan to visit Vietnam? Ha Long bay, Sapa, Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Da nang, Nha Trang...

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Hi there, thanks for the greetings.
      I love Vietnam. I've been there 5 times and I still haven't seen all those sightseeing. I skipped Nha Trang, next time I won't miss it😊

  • @PhanOT11
    @PhanOT11 Před 3 měsíci

    Golden Triangle: How do you know the water bottle you have in your hand is pure water (before you bought it)?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      It's fine. It's all sealed. Bought in from the convenience store.

  • @majorcarlton137
    @majorcarlton137 Před 2 měsíci

    It's quite bizarre like a Chinese ghost city. Beautiful structures with no people. It doesn’t feel right to me. Thanks for posting this!

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Most people are inside the buildings during the day. Like the guy on the van said. They work from 9am till 11pm. Many said on Sunday evening is crowded

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @majorcarlton137: " It doesn’t feel right to me." You're right. You might find these videos of interest: ""Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel and here: "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024.

  • @christopherlaw9184
    @christopherlaw9184 Před 3 dny

    No thank you 🙏🏼

  • @djnor1979
    @djnor1979 Před 3 měsíci

    I am not sure, but maybe your card is LAK based and they won't convert it to anything "useful" like THB or USD or CNY, the bank simply does not sell you those currencies.
    This has been the case for over 2 years now. If you have a THB account, you *might* be able to take out THB from that THB atm, but mostly all of the bank branches will deny your request for foreign currency ...
    This is why we cancelled our USD account 2 years ago. From now on, i am using only my Thai account for foreign currency transactions ...

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I've tried both my Lao card as well as the Wise Card(worldwide master card), and both got rejected. Could be because of the sanction that my Wise Card didn't work there. It works fine in most parts of Laos.

  • @Rocky-hs9ei
    @Rocky-hs9ei Před měsícem +1

    Did you say: "The King's Roman Casino"??? And you're a former Buddhist monk right??? Well... some contradiction there isn't there.

  • @joshlindsey2949
    @joshlindsey2949 Před dnem

    A city built on drug money, one of the greatest money laundering casinos in the world

  • @Laostar7
    @Laostar7 Před 3 měsíci

    New subscribers, just curious brother your look is unique. Are you mixed?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Aw...thank you for following me. I'm 100% Lao. I do have a weird look hehe

  • @thorthestar7766
    @thorthestar7766 Před 3 měsíci +1

    What part of lao PDR are you from?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      I'm from Luang Prabang

  • @greenbug3335
    @greenbug3335 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Why should any sign be in english?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Well, as they're planning to turn this place into a main trading and tourism hub, maybe adding English to the signs would help a lot because not everyone coming in speaks Mandarin or Lao.

  • @-jn1jp
    @-jn1jp Před 3 měsíci

    ເຈົ້າແມ່ນຄົນລາວ❤🇱🇦😊😊

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +2

      ໂດຍ, ຄົນລາວຄືກັນ😊

  • @mabo9636
    @mabo9636 Před 3 měsíci

    I dont get the exchange rate right
    50000kip=14 yuan
    why motorbike taxi ask 9 yuan and charge you 50000kip. it seems unfair

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Oh that's what it is🤣.
      I didn't even check 😕

  • @kayo2772
    @kayo2772 Před 3 měsíci

    I’m Lao too but grew up in Canada. I love Lao content there’s not much out there. I haven’t been back yet but I plan to go. I don’t like how it’s Laos and you have to pay Chinese currency. It’s no longer Laos. It’s China. They are taking over and claiming that as their land. Makes tourism pay more to visit Laos in that area. Corruption is a main key in losing our country. Just like Cambodia. Also they build on the nicest parts of Laos and claim Laos land. I think it’s so sad.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Thank you for the greeting. I hope you come visit Laos soon. It seems so unrealistic that the Lao currency is not accepted. Then again, as the same says"The special economic zone" the majority of people living here are Chinese invertors

    • @hanwong7623
      @hanwong7623 Před 3 měsíci

      The thing is, outside of Laos, the kip has no practical use. U cant do foreign trade with it. Its like how South Americans wanting dollars or yuan instead of pesos. U cant carry pesos around world wide.

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @kayo2772: Keep in mind that the country of Laos made a decision to create this space. You might find these videos of interest: "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024. And ""Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel.

  • @Laostar7
    @Laostar7 Před 3 měsíci

    Did you grew up in France?

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      No, I was born and raised in Luang Prabang ,Laos

  • @sosomunirath9288
    @sosomunirath9288 Před 3 měsíci

    You show your ID card in your town 😮

    • @mabo9636
      @mabo9636 Před 3 měsíci

      Certain European countries has similar law. I am not surprised if you are from common law country

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      The name itself tells it all, "The Special Economic Zone " they have their own rules and regulations.

    • @shi12jun29
      @shi12jun29 Před 3 měsíci

      这有什么奇怪的,中国深圳经济特区以前中国人进入深圳特区还需要办理边防证才可以进入。特区有特区的管理模式。

  • @gmm5550
    @gmm5550 Před 3 měsíci +1

    u dont show the massive redlight districs where chinese men having fun?
    or the human trafficing hubs?
    well

  • @SammyChannel-nw8tj
    @SammyChannel-nw8tj Před 3 měsíci +1

    you’re in China 🇨🇳 beautiful city but no people’s no tuk tuk 🛺 or taxi 🚕 can’t spends lao. money 💴.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      It is not easy to find a taxi outside of the zone but inside there are a lot but again, Lao currency is not accepted.

  • @ongtran3412
    @ongtran3412 Před 3 měsíci +2

    Các bạn Lào thân mến ! Nhân dân, nhà nước Việt Nam lúc nào cũng ở bên các bạn ngay cả trong lúc khó khăn nhất ! Bản chất của người Trung Quốc là thích thống trị, chúng tôi có hàng nghìn năm lịch sử với trung quốc và họ không bao giờ chiến thắng được chúng tôi ! Các bạn hãy cố gắng học tập, yêu nước và có tinh thần tự tôn dân tộc các bạn sẽ tự mình xây đất nước giàu, mạnh hơn ! Fighting!

    • @laointer55
      @laointer55 Před 3 měsíci +1

      You are absolutely right.

    • @sfjava6239
      @sfjava6239 Před 3 měsíci +1

      US destroyed Laos with millions bombs and still plenty of those bombs become dangerous mines for locals, and yet US didn’t assist Laos to develop its economy. Please tell how do you develop your economy with infrastructure.

    • @Namoari941
      @Namoari941 Před 3 měsíci

      Người Lào không ngu và hiếu chiến như VN, chúng tôi chỉ mong đất nước phát triển giàu mạnh, TQ không bao giờ muốn tàn phá Lào như Mỹ, TQ có tiền và sức mạnh, họ đang đầu tư và phát triển kinh tế khắp thế giới đã hơn 30 năm rồi, chẳng thấy họ đem bom đạn đến bắn phá, giết hại người dân, thống trị một nước nào cả .

    • @viexay
      @viexay Před 3 měsíci +1

      Thank you... our vietnamese brothers for standing strong side by side with the Laotian people. Words of encouragement

  • @veevons7409
    @veevons7409 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Sad part is young Lao women go work there and end in massage parlor and do the cheap sell. You figure out what kind of sell is. I went to Boten .. so sad !!especially for those young ladies.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +2

      It is really sad indeed, but they gotta do what they gotta to survive. Working in the field is no longer an option for many

  • @leesinnorai1871
    @leesinnorai1871 Před 3 měsíci

    ນັດເວົ້າພາສາກັງກິດຫລາຍກົ່ວພາສາລາວ ກໍ່ພາໄຫ້ເວົ້າພາສາລາວພ້ຽນໄປຫລາຍ , ຄືກັນກັບຄົນລາວ ອາເມຣິກາ , ເວົ້າພາສາລາວພ້ຽນ ,

  • @samsayasane1934
    @samsayasane1934 Před 3 měsíci +5

    Chinese took over laos it very sad .

  • @dkvizion
    @dkvizion Před 3 měsíci

    Looks like a ghost town.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Mostly they're inside the buildings. Like the guy i talked to in the van said, they work from 9am till 11pm

  • @dkvizion
    @dkvizion Před 3 měsíci

    Belt and road initiative, sound like, Laos owes so much debt to China....billions.

  • @laointer55
    @laointer55 Před 3 měsíci

    ສົງສັຍເຈົ້າຫລົງເຂົ້າໄປໃນເມືອງລັບແລ ເພີ່ນຈື່ງບໍ່ຮັບເງິນກີບ₭..So weird that you can't use your own currency(₭)inside your own country...poor Laos.!!!

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      As the name suggests, "the special economic zone" it's fully controlled by the private sector with their own rules and regulations.

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @laointer55: This area is under a 99 year lease. You might find these videos of interest: "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024. And ""Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel.

  • @user-oi4wl3fz2h
    @user-oi4wl3fz2h Před 3 měsíci

    อ้ายใช่คนลาวหรือบ่

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      โดย, อ้ายเป็นคนลาว

  • @Woodyyohoe
    @Woodyyohoe Před 3 měsíci

    Weird that they take their passports. Like they're forcing them to stay and work

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci

      Yes, that's the rule. Basically everyone has to sign the contract before they start working. The contract is from 3 months -1 year. And they'll get their passport detained throughout the contract period. That's to prevent the workers from leaving before the contract ends.

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @woodyyohoe: You are correct. You might find these videos of interest: "Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel. And "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024.

  • @BadMedizin
    @BadMedizin Před 3 měsíci +2

    Bad vibe Brother, get out of there... ❤👍👍👍🙏

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +2

      Left already. Back home safe and sound. Thank you🙂🙏

  • @VCseesai
    @VCseesai Před 3 měsíci +7

    Just called it little China, Laos are not getting it back

    • @dheevar9660
      @dheevar9660 Před 2 měsíci +1

      U r wrong. A lot of laos r getting jobs

    • @patriciopineda5
      @patriciopineda5 Před 5 hodinami

      Is China America? Look at what they did to Native Indians!!!

  • @user-ps2vs5wj2c
    @user-ps2vs5wj2c Před 3 měsíci

    ประเทศที่กำลังถูกจีนยึด

  • @Sone2691
    @Sone2691 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Sorry Nat that place is bad news for Laos country, but you get the real impression what is like.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      It is good to see it🙂

  • @nokibofapouli4186
    @nokibofapouli4186 Před 3 měsíci

    I am in big trouble if I speak 😅

  • @user-gh7yl3bs5u
    @user-gh7yl3bs5u Před 4 dny

    What a dump

  • @dlcc012david
    @dlcc012david Před 3 měsíci

    Always remember rumours, lies n propaganda r carried by haters, spread by fools n accepted by idiots

  • @user-om1ko2ij6q
    @user-om1ko2ij6q Před 3 měsíci +1

    China Lao railway changed Lao economy for the worst. How do you explain that as soon as the railway opened the Lao economy went into the deep shit. Lao people are suffering immensely right now.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +6

      Laos economy has been declined even before Covid-19, mainly due to inflation, just like everywhere else in the world.
      The export has been drastically decreased for the last several years due to many factors. Drought is one of them.
      But if you look at the number of tourists coming into Laos before and after the train, they're quite big different.

    • @paulkaduad2494
      @paulkaduad2494 Před 3 měsíci

      @@natnomad You meant they bring more Chinese to take over Laos, and take Lao women back to China to be slaves for the Chinese men?

    • @thetreekeeper143
      @thetreekeeper143 Před 3 měsíci +1

      I think the railway will bring in rich Chinese tourists which will bring in Chinese investors and jobs for the locals in the future.

  • @armunro
    @armunro Před 3 měsíci

    Weird; cctv cameras everywhere. Cars don't have number plates? You are in Laos but cannot use Laos bank card there or get any money from the ATM. Feel sorry for Laos being taken over by the Chinese; hope it all works out ok in the future.

    • @natnomad
      @natnomad  Před 3 měsíci +1

      As the name suggested, "The special economic zone" they have their own rules and regulations. As for the future, we can only wait and see. But I'm hoping for the best.

    • @violetviolet888
      @violetviolet888 Před 15 dny

      @armunro. The country of Laos made a decision to create this space. You might find these videos of interest: "Inside The Chinese Colony In Laos" (#167) by Sabbatical CZcams channel. And "How One Man Rules in Asia’s Golden Triangle" by Bloomberg Originals CZcams channel. Posted Aug 20, 2024.