Someone recently told me that in and around the period of December 2010, tourists visas (at least from Vientiane) were free. I find this hard to believe, can anyone confirm or deny this?

Yes, tourists visas were free for some time - to promote tourism.

Many consulates then introduced an administration tax.... (or convenience fee, as Air Asia would call it).

They have introduced the free tourist visa program a couple of times.

Edit: Since this topic has already attracted a off topic troll post and the question has been answered it is now