The Lao, generally speaking, are a flirtatious lot. Sexual innuendo and proposition-fuelled banter form a central aspect of social interaction. In a country where white skin and straight noses are often seen as desirable traits, if you fall into that category you’ll find yourself often flattered. The Lao are also rather blunt and will openly joke about people’s appearances. Weight is not a sensitive issue here; if people start joking about yours, don’t take offense. Unfortunately, many people in Laos are less forgiving of skin-tone than weight. Dark skin is traditionally seen as an indicator of poverty and considered by some as undesirable; most all cosmetics contain whitening cream and Lao people avoid the sun as much as possible. If someone makes a derogatory remark about your skin color, it can sting; try not to take it personally and bear in mind that you’re in a very homogenous culture with very specific ideals of beauty.