ETL – One of the best mobile operators in Laos

Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. As more and more tourists flock to this hidden gem, the need for reliable and fast communication services has become increasingly important. In this article, we will explore the ETL coverage and speed in Laos, as well as the best ETL eSIM options for tourists.

ETL (Enterprise of Telecommunications Lao) is the leading telecommunications provider in Laos, offering a wide range of services including mobile, fixed line, internet, and data solutions. With over 2 million subscribers, ETL has a strong presence throughout the country, providing coverage to both urban and rural areas.

ETL’s coverage map covers most major cities and towns in Laos, including Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Pakse. However, there may be some gaps in coverage in more remote or mountainous areas.

ETL operates on a 3G network, with plans to expand to 4G in the near future. This means that tourists can expect decent coverage and speeds in most areas, but may experience slower connections in more rural or remote locations.

Advantages of ETL Coverage ·         Wide coverage across major cities and towns ·         Affordable rates for data and calls ·         Reliable network technology

Disadvantages of ETL Coverage ·         Limited coverage in remote or mountainous areas ·         Slower speeds compared to other countries ·         No 4G network currently available

When it comes to internet speeds, Laos may not be the fastest country in the world, but it has made significant progress in recent years. According to a report by Ookla, the average mobile download speed in Laos is 12.45 Mbps, which is slightly below the global average of 26.12 Mbps.

Factors Affecting Speed

There are several factors that can affect internet speeds in Laos, including:

• Network coverage: As mentioned earlier, ETL’s coverage may be limited in some areas, which can result in slower speeds.
• Peak hours: During peak hours, when more people are using the network, speeds may slow down due to congestion.
• Location: Internet speeds may vary depending on your location, with urban areas generally having faster speeds compared to rural areas.

Tips for Faster Speeds

• Use a data plan with higher speeds and larger data allowances.
• Avoid using the internet during peak hours.
• Choose a location with better network coverage.

As a tourist in Laos, you have two main options for connectivity – a physical SIM card or an eSIM. Let’s take a closer look at each option.

Physical SIM Card

A physical SIM card is a small chip that you insert into your phone to access cellular services. In Laos, ETL offers a range of prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased from their stores or authorized resellers.

Pros of Using a Physical SIM Card ·         Easy to purchase and set up ·         Can be used in any unlocked device ·         Affordable rates for data and calls

Cons of Using a Physical SIM Card ·         Requires a compatible device with a SIM card slot ·         May need to change SIM cards if traveling to other countries ·         Risk of losing or damaging the physical SIM card

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is built into your device. It allows you to connect to a cellular network without the need for a physical SIM card. ETL offers eSIMs for both tourists and residents, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Pros of Using an eSIM

• No need to physically change SIM cards
• Can be used in any eSIM compatible device
• Easy to set up and activate

Cons of Using an eSIM

• Limited availability in devices (currently only available in newer models)
• May not be supported by all networks
• Higher cost compared to physical SIM cards

If you’re planning to use an eSIM during your trip to Laos, here are the best options offered by ETL:

1. Tourist eSIM: This is a prepaid eSIM specifically designed for tourists, offering 10GB of data and 100 minutes of local calls for 7 days. It can be purchased from ETL stores or authorized resellers.
2. Resident eSIM: If you plan on staying in Laos for a longer period, this postpaid eSIM offers more data and call options with a monthly subscription plan.
3. International eSIM: This eSIM allows you to use your phone in multiple countries, making it a great option for frequent travelers.

ETL SIM cards and eSIMs can be purchased from ETL stores or authorized resellers throughout Laos. You can also purchase them at the airport upon arrival. Here are some recommended locations:

Where to Buy an ETL SIM Card

• Wattay International Airport (Vientiane)
• Luang Prabang International Airport
• ETL stores in major cities and towns

Where to Buy an ETL eSIM

• ETL stores in major cities and towns
• Authorized resellers such as hotels, convenience stores, and tourist agencies

Activating an ETL SIM card or eSIM is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps.

How to Set Up and Activate ETL Laos SIM card

1. Purchase an ETL SIM card from one of the recommended locations.
2. Insert the SIM card into your phone.
3. Dial *123# and follow the instructions to activate your SIM card.
4. Top up your account with credit for data and calls.

How to Set Up and Activate ETL Laos eSIM

1. Purchase an ETL eSIM from one of the recommended locations.
2. Make sure your device is compatible with eSIMs.
3. Scan the QR code provided by ETL or manually enter the activation code.
4. Follow the instructions to complete the activation process.

In conclusion, ETL offers decent coverage and speeds in Laos, making it a reliable option for tourists. Whether you choose a physical SIM card or an eSIM, make sure to consider your data and call needs to find the best option for your trip. With this guide, you can easily set up and activate your ETL SIM card or eSIM, and stay connected during your travels in Laos.