25 (More) Authentic Asian Experiences


Sivilay Lasachack, the Laos-born, Czech-trained brewmaster behind one of Asia's hottest beers, doesn't actually drink alcohol. She prefers tea. Thankfully, there are hordes of people willing to take the rice-based booze off her hands. A hit with backpackers and global beer snobs alike, the hard-to-find Beer Lao has become a quintessential part of a trip to Southeast Asia. Find out what the buzz is about by touring the firm's Vientiane plant. You'll get the full story — and a chance to drink a great beer — fresh off the line.

— By Emily Rauhala