Vientiane

By Joyce Ira

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Pha Thuat Luang

Patuxay

Vientiane is the capital of Laos, a country full of temples and monks. A quiet place far different from other developed countries in Southeast Asia.

Best places to visit:

1. Buddha Park - is known as the 'sculpture park' located 25 kilometres southeast of Vientiane. This park highlights 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues. One of the most visited statue is the enormous 40 metres long reclining Buddha.

2. Haw Phra Kaew - situated on Setthathirath Road and the house of the Emerald Buddha figurine.

3. Lao National Museum - located on Samsenthai Road which is opposite of the Cultural Hall, will educate you of Laos' history and the struggles of Laotian people to attain freedom in their country from other conquerors.

4. Patuxay - is situated on Lan Xang Boulevard. Patuxay is known to be the 'Champs Elysees of the East' as the grand monument is dedicated to those who fought in the struggle for independence from France.

5. Pha That Luang - contains many references in Lao culture and thus referred as the symbol of Lao nationalism. This temple is said to have the relics of Buddha since the 16th century.

6. Talat Sao - or better known as the morning market is located at the eastern corner of Lan Xang Rd. and Khu Vieng Rd. This place is the perfect place to buy cheap goods like DVD, CD, musical instruments, silk goods and many more. Fresh fruits and vegetables are also sold here for consumption.

7. That Dam - is believed to inhabit the seven headed naga who tried to protect the the Laotians from the armies of Siam, who invaded in 1827.

8. Wat Ong Teu - is located on Setthathirat Rd. coner of Chao Anou. The temple is open from 9:00-17:00 and is considered as the biggest temple in Vientiane.

9. Wat Si Muang - this temple is built from the ruins of a Khmer Hindu shrine, where the remains can be seen behind the ordination hall.

10. Wat Si Saket - located on Lane Xang Rd and Setthathirat Rd. opposite from Wat Pha Kaew. The temple is open from 8:00-12:00 & 13:00-16:00. It is famous for being the oldest original temple in Vientiane, built by King Anou in 1818. And houses more than 2,000 small Buddha statues, brought by Buddhist devotees. Wat Si Saket also features a cloister wall with more than 2000 ceramic and silver Buddha images.

11. Wat Sok Pa Luang - this is the only temple in the forest about 4km Southeast from the town. There is a famous herbal sauna & massage next to the Wat. Which is highly recommended to visit.

Most of the temples and places are free of charge. However, for some it is advised to prepare 2,000-5,000 kip for the fee.

Best ride to go around Vietiane:

1. You can ride a bicycle to explore the beauty of the city, or

2. Rent a tuktuk the whole day for an easier travel.

Best places to stay:

1. City Inn Vientiane Hotel - a convenient base for visitors coming in Vientiane. Located near Namphou Circle, surrounded with beautiful temples and several tourist attractions like the morning market, foreign embassies and shopping centres. The hotel has 3 different types of rooms and cater every lodging needs. Wireless internet is available in every room. This hotel is highly recommended as it's a good value for money.

2. Inter City - located on 24-25 Fa Ngum Road, Units, Ban Wat-Chan, Chanthabury. Standard room range from $36-$50/night.

3. Hotel Lao - located on 53/9 Hengboon Rd.,Ban Haisok. Lao hotel provides practical room facilities that meet traveler's expectation during their Vientiane travel. Hotel Lao comprises guestrooms and suites. Rooms are nicely ventilated with air-condition. Other room amenities include Air-Conditioning, Hot / Cold Shower, IDD Telephone, Satellite/Cable TV. Room rate ranges from $30 for a single bed, $34 for twin and $49 for triple bed.

Best eats around Vientiane:

1. Namphou Coffee - famous for having the best coffee in the region. Breakfast fro two with coffee is under $3. You can find this restaurant near Thanon Samsenthai & Thanon Pangkham.

2. Samsenthai Fried Noodle - great place for lunch. Lunch for two with a shake each was 32,000 KIP (just over $3). Located on Thanon Samsenthai.

3. Night Market - local foods are being served here. You will drool over the wide variety they have. Grilled pork, seafood and many more. You can be full with your $10 budget.

4. Riverside Terraces - there are nipa huts located on Fa Ngoum Rd. where they faces the great Mekong River. The food her are least expensive and best to have dinner to feel the cool breeze from the river.


It's easy to get in Vientiane. You can choose from below means of transportation.

1. There are regular buses around the city, so you won't be exhausted getting to each place you want to visit.

2. Vientiane is served by the Wattay International Airport with international connections to other Asian countries. Lao Airlines has regular flights to several domestic destinations.

3. If you are coming from Thailand, you need to cross the 18 kilometres Thai-Lao Friendship bridge that connects the two countries.




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