Laos has several ethnic groups that speak different languages, though Lao is the dominant language and is similar to Thai. Historically, Laos and Thailand were once the same country. King Fa Ngum unified the various regions of Laos in the 14th century and spread Buddhism. Some important Lao traditions include Boun Pi Mai for the Lao New Year in April, Boun That Luang festival at the national symbol That Luang stupa in November, and Boun Bang Fai rocket festival for local villages. Popular Lao foods include Laap (minced meat salad), papaya salad, and Khao poon rice vermicelli soup. Famous Lao arts include weavings, engrav