Pétanque is one of Laos’ favorite pastimes. It is a form of boules (a collective name for games played with metal balls) where the object of the game is to throw the balls as close as possible to a small wooden ball or jack. The game is usually played on hard surfaces such as dirt or gravel but in general, can be played just about anywhere, with the exception of concrete, asphalt or tiles which can break as a result of the balls being tossed on them.