My experience in Laos
Jul 27 Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang since direct flight and more relaxed place to stay
Jul 28 embassy holiday so I took train down to Vientiane stayed across from embassy
Jul 29 paid and took train back to Luang Prabang
Jul 29 document request bank screenshot with atm card
Jul 30 request motivation letter, financial support letter, and July bank statement
Aug 3 request new headshot photo and new visa stamp photo
Aug 5 approval email at 11:45pm
Aug 7 flight Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai