Vientiane

Vientiane is the National Capital City of Lao PDR. It is the political and economic center of the country with the population of 500,000. Vientiane is located on the curve of the Mekong river which is a natural border with Thailand.

Thaat Luang Stupa - the national symbol of Laos. It was built in by King Xaysetthathirath in 1566. Thaat Luang was once destroyed by war and was restored in 1935. It has been said that if you do not visit Thaat Luang you do not arrive Laos yet. This is a must place to visit.

Patuxai - also known as Anousavali which means the gate of victory. Its architecture is inspired by the Arc de Triumph in Paris incorporated with traditional Lao design and sculpture. You can climb up to the top to get a panoramic view of the city of Vientiane.
  
 

Morning Market (Talat Sao) - this is the main shopping place in Vientiane. There are a variety of goods and local products with reasonable prices. You can buy Lao designed and handmade souvenirs such as textiles, Lao skirts (sinh), handicraft, jewelry and antiques. Get another shopping experience by go to Talat Sao and shop till you drop.

 

National Ethnic Cultural Park - also known as Suan Vatthanatham in Lao, is located 20 kilometers from Vientiane. In this one place you can see the lifestyle of all the ethnic groups in Laos, their homes, a small zoo and a good view of the Friendship bridge linking Laos and Thailand. There are a number of riverside bars and restaurant so sit back, relax and enjoy the day at Suan Vatthanatham.

Vang Vieng - about 152 kilometer from the city of Vientiane. The temperature there is a bit cooler than in Vientiane with a magnificent natural environment. You can climb up to Tham Jung (a beautiful cave with limestone). If you want some adventure you can float on a tube along the Nam Song river to feel the unspoiled nature around the river. Catching the sun set is a must when you visit Vang Vieng. There are daily buses taking tourists from Vientiane to Vang Vieng and vice versa.