A Lao proverb holds that 'a wise man is a good listener'. Tune your ear to this fascinating language - which draws on French, Sanskrit, Pali and English - and boost your IQ.

• two-way dictionary
• guide to pronunciation and phrase-building
• practicalities - street addresses, bargaining and getting the mild cigarettes
• 'so how long have you been a monk?...' - learn how to ask