In the Lao PDR, there are two categories of relationships, moo linh and moo tai roughly translated as "play friends" and "die friends" respectively. Moo linh are pals who may pick each other up for a dousing spree, attend each others' festive occasions and exploit their relationship professionally. This kind of relationship is based on mutual advantage. When mutual advantage ceases, the relationship usually dies. You may experience such relationships during your stay. The moo tai relationship involves long term ties such as family or growing up together. This relationship means relying on each other 100 percent for both the good and the bad times. You will never enter this kind of relationship with a Lao unless you live your entire life in the Lao PDR.