You may be lucky and be given an earlier date, i know some have tried that with success but in Taipei. Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang are great places. Luang Namtha is an interesting hilltribe, riverside area. The good thing with Laos is you will get your approval very quickly after the interview
On the main DTV FB page you can find some posts of success from Manilla.I emailed a lot with Manilla it is a helpful, friendly embassy. My 1st choice to get the DTV if i did not get it in Taipei.
Anonymous participant it also means country of residence or employment. 1000s have got DTVs via working and living in other countries but their own Inc myself.