Laos was not what I had expected. Its capital, Vientiane, was not a bustling metropolis like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur or Manila. No wonder it claims the title of being “the largest village”. The dusty road is something one has to live up with. But for one to tour Vientiane, must-see places are the Patousai (version of Paris’ Arc de Triompje), That Luang-Gol (the golden temple) and Vat Phra Keo (most popular temple). Vientiane’s highlights are its temples. Its local restaurants serve delicious native cuisines. One thing that shouldn’t be missed when in Vientiane is watching the sunset at the Mekong River banks as you gulp on a bottle of Lao beer in one of the cottages or local bars within the vicinity. The capital can be toured in just a day by foot or by tuktuk, a tricycle-like mode of transportation. Go to the morning market for local finds. The morning market offers cheap local goods, although many of them can also be found in Bangkok. Climb Patousai which is found at the heart of the city, is where you will see the cityscape from atop the monument. Take the same road going to Luang-gol and see how it glows like a sun at a distance. It is easy to go to the major attractions like the museum and the palace because they are very accessible. While touring Vientiane, we chanced upon a European who shared that if you want to retire and just enjoy life minus the hassles and stress of city-life, Laos is the best place to spend one’s “the rest of his life.” After seeing the sleepy city of Vientiane, we understood what he meant by what he said.
Quick Tips:
It is best to have a local guide to tour you around the city for convenience although you wouldn’t really need a guide to see the entire Vientiane. However, not many locals can understand and speak English and sometimes it’s frustrating trying to communicate with them if you are not familiar with their language. Although the local currency is kip, local shops in Laos also accept baht, or the Thai currency.
During April to June, the country is in its hottest weather so bring a cap and lots of extra shirts made of thin cloth. Laos also celebrates Songkran so be ready to get wet when you chance upon celebrating the Buddhist New Year in their place. Most of all never leave Laos without trying their iced coffee, which is a local version of Starbucks' cold coffees.Best Way To Get Around:
From Bangkok, there are trains and buses to Nong Khai. From Nong Khai, hire a car near the border to get you across the Friendship Bridge and to the border of Laos. At the Lao side, there are mini-buses and small vehicles that will bring you up to the Morning Market. In a small city like Vientianne, it is easier to walk. There are tuktuks or tricycles available, but they are too noisy and could not keep the dust of your face.