The mighty Mekong stretches from Nepal to South Vietnam, forming the border with Thailand as it winds through Laos, and then meandering through Cambodia, forming the backbone and lifeblood of the country - the closed country. The epic bus journey takes at least 24 hours and there's plenty of vertigo along the way. As a legendary river in Laos and Southeast Asia, there is no trip to Vientiane that does not include a passage or a short visit to the Mekong River. From backpackers "folklore to a trip to the jungle and back to visit him, it's an epic bus journey.
The Mekong is the 12th longest river in the world and flows through Southeast Asia, from China to Laos. The first Thai-Lao friendship bridge, built in 1990, crosses the river and is an important crossing point between the two countries.
Just 1.5 km from the centre of Vientiane is the small town of Chiang Mai, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It is relatively easy to reach by bike and it is possible to get to Vientsiane from Bangkok, the only border crossing that allows foreigners. You can also fly to Laos from Udon Thani in Thailand and enter by land (see transportation options here).
The likelihood that your trip to Vientiane will not be direct is low, but if you decide to return to Laos from Thailand via this route, the route is somewhat less clear - cut. A flight from Udon Thani to Bangkok will take you through the capital Phnom Penh and on to Hanoi and Cambodia. Those who arrive in Haoi, Phnom Penh or Bangkok will be impressed by the immaculate streets of the Laotian capital.
If you really want to learn about the history of Vientiane and the people of Laos, you should also visit the famous French Victory Gate, known as Patuxai. Go there early enough to avoid the crowds of Lao tourists, visit the museum and then head back to the city centre for a visit. Visiting the temples in the city is a great way to get in touch with Lao culture. Some of the oldest existing temples date back 5000 years, others up to 2500 years.
If you find that you absolutely love Lao food, you can take a cooking course in Vientiane to learn how to prepare some of the most popular Lao dishes. This highly rated cooking school in Vientsiane is part of Lao Experiences, where you can learn about Lao food and culture.
Of course, there are hundreds of fantastic things waiting for you, but here are the main features of Vientiane Laos. These are some of the best activities in Vientsiane, Laos to learn more about the culture and people of Laos! Even if you are here for only one day, this is the most special thing you will have to do during your visit to this country.
Of course, most of these cities and temples are not the ancient ones you can visit, but this is an overview of what it takes to lower your expectations. I will be a little unfair to the Lao National Museum, describing it as poorly managed and with incomplete information about the history of Laos. The guide will tell you that it is run down and poorly maintained and that it has had its share of problems.
A walk through the extensive museum is certainly one of the best things to do in Vientiane, Laos, but it is not its appearance that makes it most interesting to do in it. If you are looking for a little more alternative activities in and around Vientsiane Laos, you should check out the following information:
Catching one is without doubt one of the most essential things to do in Vientiane, Laos, and there are many waters to jump into. Swimwear is a must - pack something if you plan to visit Laos as it's totally free. A night trip is never cheap, so make sure you do all the things you might only do a few times, even if they are done in and around Vietnam, Cambodia or Thailand.
Laos is primarily a cash-based company, so be sure to read our guide on how to manage your money in Laos. Laos and its capital are relatively cheap, but you will have a hard time spending a ton of money here, and you will have much more to expect.
Unlike the rest of Laos, Vientiane is deeply rooted in religion, and visitors can visit many other temples besides the Pha. In the capital of Cambodia you can experience the holy temples of Buddha, Don Dung, Phra Pho, the Great Temple of Khmer Buddhism or even the fallen and many others. Visitors to Laos can also discover things to do in the city that are often overlooked by travelers, such as temples, temples and temples. This capital in Laos has several temples (holy places), which one should definitely visit on his trip to Vientsiane.