population: 0.12 million

extension: 10,691 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Salavan, Laos and interested in visiting museums, you may want to check out the Pakse Savannakhet Museum in Pakse, which is about a 2-hour drive north of Salavan. Alternatively, you can visit the Champasak Historical Heritage Museum in Champasak, which is about 3 hours north of Salavan. Both museums showcase the history and culture of Laos through exhibits and artifacts. If you are looking for similar museums nearby, you can also consider the Savannakhet Provincial Museum or the That Ing Hang Stupa Museum, both located in Savannakhet province, which is about a 3-hour drive east of Salavan.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular and typical dishes to eat in Salavan, Laos according to local people are:

1. Khao Piak Sen: A traditional rice noodle soup served with chicken or pork and a variety of herbs and spices.
2. Larb: A spicy salad made from minced meat (usually chicken or beef) mixed with lime juice, chili, and other seasonings.
3. Tam Mak Houng: A zesty papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and chili peppers.
4. Sai Oua: Grilled Lao pork sausages seasoned with lemongrass, galangal, and other aromatic herbs.
5. Kaipen: A crispy snack made from freshwater algae that is fried and typically served with chili sauce.
6. Mok Pa: A fish dish wrapped in banana leaves and steamed with an array of herbs and spices.

These dishes can be found at local markets and restaurants in Salavan, and they offer a delicious taste of Lao cuisine.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Salavan, Laos include:

1. Visiting the Tad Lo Waterfall to swim, relax and picnic.
2. Exploring the Bolaven Plateau, which is known for its scenic waterfalls, coffee plantations, and traditional villages.
3. Trekking or hiking through the lush jungle of Dong Hua Sao National Park.
4. Participating in a homestay program with a local family to experience their lifestyle, culture, and food.
5. Attending local festivals such as the That Lae Waterfall Festival or the Elephant Festival, which are celebrated annually in nearby provinces.

Note that some of these activities may require guided tours or permits, so it's best to plan ahead and check with local tourism offices or travel agencies before embarking on any adventures.