Vientiane, Laos Destination Guide

Overview of Vientiane Life in Laos' modest capital flows along as languidly as the Mekong River, next to which the city is situated. Visitors will find a sprawling series of villages rather than an inter-connected urban metropolis. Laotian temples and crumbling French colonial buildings give Vientiane much of its personality, while paddy fields still dot the outlying suburbs and even penetrate the city centre in places. Narrow lanes, croissant-selling bakeries and noodle-soup vendors characterise the downtown area. Most places of interest are concentrated in a small area in the commercial district, between the bamboo-and-thatch beer gardens on the riverbank and Talaat Sao (the morning market). The area is easy to explore on foot. Tourists can also visit some fine Wats(temples), such as Wat Si Saket.

Key Facts

Language: Lao is the official language, but some English and French are spoken. Passport/Visa: Most foreign passengers to Laos can obtain a visa on arrival, provided that: (i) they are arriving at one of the following airports: Vientiane International, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Warray; (ii) they are holding a return/onward ticket and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination; (iii) they have a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos; and (iv) they are in possession of one photograph, size 3 x 4 cm (however, it is always recommened to travel with more than one) (v) their passport contains at least two unused visa pages. These tourist visas are valid for 30 days. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Laos, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Currency: The Lao Kip (LAK) is the legal currency unit. US Dollars, Euros and Thai Baht are also accepted in many places and are more convenient to carry than large stacks of the local currency. Banks, hotels, and jewellery shops all offer currency exchange services. For everyday expenses, visitors should carry a mix of US Dollars and Kip. For larger items, or when the exchange rate is favourable, travellers should use US dollars. For local transport, street-food stalls and minor purchases, Kip will serve visitors better. When in rural areas, travellers should carry a supply of small notes as change can be hard to come by. Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most international hotels, many shops and restaurants, and a few tourist-orientated establishments in Luang Prabang and Vientiane. In other parts of the country, visitors should assume that only cash is accepted. Banks are generally open Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm, and then again from 2pm to 3pm. ATMs are available in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse and other major towns. Travellers should note that ATMs distribute only Lao Kip, with a maximum of around 1,000,000 Kip per transaction. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of plugs are used, including the European-style two-pin, the UK-style three-pin, and the flat two-pin type.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Vientiane Climate for Vientiane Vientiane has a tropical monsoon climate with short, dry winters that last between December and January. Winter minimum temperatures rarely drop below 60°F (16°C). The warmest time of year (March to the beginning of May) sees maximum temperatures peak around 91°F (33°C), and minimum temperatures rarely drop below 68°F (20°C). The rainy season lasts from April to October, with thunderstorms being the most common form of precipitation. The city generally has very high humidity levels and muggy conditions throughout the long wet season. The best time to visit Vientiane is in its mild winters.

Health Notes when travelling to Laos Travellers planning to visit Laos should seek medical advice about vaccinations and endemic diseases at least three weeks prior to departure. With the exception of Vientiane, malaria exists throughout the country, and typhoid and cholera occur in some areas. A typhoid vaccine is recommended for all travellers, except short-term visitors who will restrict their meals to hotels and major restaurants. Other risks include hepatitis E, plague, dengue fever, and Schistosomiasis if swimming in the Mekong River. Travellers' diarrhoea is a problem for many visitors. The best policy would be to only drink bottled water and avoid dairy products, uncooked meat and fish, salads and unpeeled fruit. Medical care in Vientiane is extremely basic, and there are no reliable facilities to deal with medical emergencies outside the capital. As medical evacuation is difficult to organise and very expensive, travellers are advised to take out comprehensive medical insurance. Visitors who have an unstable medical condition should consider avoiding Laos. A yellow fever certificate is required from anyone entering from an infected area. Safety Notes when travelling to Laos Most visits to Laos are trouble-free, though crimes such as robbery are on the increase. Passport theft is a problem and travellers are advised to take care, avoid carrying large sums of money and keep valuables and documents in a safe place. Making copies of important travel documents is also a good idea. Travel in some rural parts of Laos is dangerous because of banditry and unexploded ordnance, and visitors should never stray from well-worn footpaths. Visitors should also note that an ID document or passport should be carried at all times and should be presented on demand or else a heavy fine could be imposed. Visitors to Vang Vieng are advised to be particularly vigilant of their belongings, and aware of their personal security as there have been reports of petty theft in the area. Staying at a trustworthy and secure hotel or guesthouse while in Vang Vieng is recommended. Although Laos is known for its laid-back and friendly atmosphere, the travel risk is somewhat increased by the lack of travel infrastructure and medical facilities. Customs in Laos Skimpy or revealing clothes are generally not acceptable, especially in places of worship. Public displays of affection are taboo in Lao society. The Laos government prohibits any sexual contact or relationships between Lao nationals and foreigners, unless married under Lao law; penalties may involve heavy fines or imprisonment. It is illegal not to carry an identity document. Photographing military sites is prohibited. Duty Free in Laos Travellers to Laos do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 2 litres of wine and 1 litre of spirits; and 50ml of perfume and 250ml of eau de toilette. Doing Business in Laos Laos' hot, tropical climate demands that business people typically wear lightweight suits, usually with a tie. Visitors should also bear in mind that the country is generally rather conservative and act accordingly. Business cards should be given and received using both hands and should be treated with respect. Handshakes are common, though the traditional greeting is the nop. It is similar to the Indian Namaste, where palms are placed together as if in prayer, and held in front of the chest or face. Surnames usually come before first names, which can be confusing for visitors. French is more widely spoken and understood than English, though translators are available. Business hours are usually from 8am to 12pm, and 1pm to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

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Communication in Laos The international access code for Laos is +856. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the United States). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)21 for Vientiane and (0)71 for Luang Prabang. International Direct Dial is available in the major towns, but the service is expensive and inefficient. Hotels sometimes add a hefty surcharge to their telephone bills, so guests should check before making long-distance calls. As mobile phones will only work in the major cities, and local mobile phone companies have few active roaming agreements with other network operators, travellers are advised to check their coverage with their service provider before visiting Laos. Tipping in Laos Tipping is becoming more widely practiced in tourist hotels and restaurants, where 10 percent is expected. Elsewhere, there is no need to tip. Many of the more up-market restaurants tend to include a 10 to 15 percent service charge in their bill. Passport/Visa Note Most foreign passengers to Laos can obtain a visa on arrival, provided that: (i) they are arriving at one of the following airports: Vientiane International, Luang Prabang, Pakse, Warray; (ii) they are holding a return/onward ticket and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination; (iii) they have a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos; and (iv) they are in possession of one photograph, size 3 x 4 cm (however, it is always recommened to travel with more than one) (v) their passport contains at least two unused visa pages. These tourist visas are valid for 30 days. Note that a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Laos, if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through an infected area. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. Entry Requirements Entry requirements for Americans: US citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained for a maximum stay of 30 days if possessing a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo, two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the next destination.

Entry requirements for Canadians: Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days if holding a hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo, two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the next destination.

Entry requirements for UK nationals: British citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained for a maximum stay of 30 days on arrival if holding a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo, and all required documents for the next destination.

Entry requirements for Australians: Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of 30 days if holding an address in Laos, one passport photo, two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the next destination.

Entry requirements for Irish nationals: Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of up to 30 days if holding a hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo, and all required documents for the next destination.

Entry requirements for New Zealanders: New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of up to 30 days if holding a hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo, two unused visa pages, and all required documents for the next destination.

Entry requirements for South Africans: South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the date of their arrival in Laos. A visa is required, and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of up to 30 days if holding a confirmed hotel reservation in Laos, one passport photo, and all required documents for the next destination.

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Getting around in Vientiane, Laos For short distances, the tuk-tuk is Vientiane's primary mode of transport. These privately owned, three-wheeled motor vehicles carry passengers in and around the city, charging flat rates for different destinations. Taxis tend to gather at busy locations, such as markets and bus terminals. The Talat Sao Bus Station is Vientiane's main terminal and offers routes to neighbouring cities and Thailand. Buses can be badly maintained and lack air-conditioning. They are, however, a major source of transportation for locals. Bicycle and scooter rentals are available from private businesses and some guesthouses. It is illegal to ride a scooter without a helmet and fines are known to be costly. Transport in rural areas may be difficult to find or unreliable, meaning tourist might simplify their plans by hiring a car for longer distances.

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Attractions in Vientiane, Laos Vientiane hasn't got the obvious charm of Luang Prabang and sometimes suffers by comparison. Against that, Laos' capital has more in the way of traditional tourist attractions, and has put much effort into encouraging sustainable tourism. Visitors won't struggle to find interesting things to see and do, and many fall in love with the city's relaxed atmosphere and sleepy riverside scenes. Vientiane's many Buddhist temples are its main drawcard and are interspersed with modern and colonial architecture - as they are throughout the country. The old and grandiose Ho Phra Kaew and the famous That Luang (the golden Royal Stupa) are among the city's best. Wat Si Saket is another favourite, and is known for its thousands of Buddha images. Travellers should note that although the temples in Laos are incredible, they tend to be fairly similar. Tourists should only stop at the best ones to avoid temple fatigue. A visit to Vientiane should also include shopping in the Morning Market (Talat Sao), a stroll through Victory Gate, a cooking course on the banks of the Mekong River, a craft class at the Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women, and an educational trip to the COPE Visitor's Centre. Regarding excursions, the weird but wonderful Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) is a good option. So too is the small, laidback town of Vang Vieng, which is surrounded by green agricultural fields, friendly Hmong and Yao villages, and mountains that hold fascinating limestone caves.

That Luang Stupa Opening time: Tuesday - Sunday: 8am to 12pm; 1pm to 4pm. Closed on Mondays. Admission: LAK 5,000 That Luang Stupa is a symbol of Buddhism and Lao rule, and is the country's most important religious building. The golden temple and its spire are visible from afar, and are an unforgettable welcoming sight for travellers. King Setthathirath built the shrine in 1566 and his statue stands in front of the temple, where the setting sun enhances the beauty of its already stunning golden surface. The central stupa is deeply symbolic. Resembling a curved lotus bud, its three tiers represent different aspects of Buddhism. More specifically, the base deals with hell, the middle revolves around 30 Buddhist teachings and the top tier is about heaven. Visitors should explore the area with a local guide, who can explain the site's significance. They will also need to dress modestly, covering their knees and shoulders. Women can borrow traditional Lao skirts at the entrance. Regarding fees, visitors must pay to access the base of the stupa, while access to the Reclining Buddha and surrounding temples is free.

Address: That Luang Village, Xaysettha District, Vientiane Telephone: +856 20 95 210 600

Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) Opening time: 8am to 6pm The site known as Buddha Park is an otherworldly collection of Buddhist and Hindu statues scattered around a riverside meadow. Priest-shaman, myth-maker and sculptor, Luang Pu, designed and built the park in 1958, fusing philosophy with mythology and iconography. Visitors will discover that the detail on many of the statues is decidedly atypical of Laos. Indeed, much of it is quite unique. Visitors are sure to enjoy climbing and exploring the structures and should look out for tourist pleasers such as the beautiful Tree of Life sculpture and a pumpkin-like statue. The latter's steps lie inside its gaping mouth and lead to a viewing platform. Visitors are free touch the statues, take photographs and explore without much restriction. They'll also find a restaurant that serves decent food. The trip to Buddha Park is fairly lengthy, though the region's rural scenery is interesting in its own right.

Address: Thanon Tha Deua, Vientiane, Laos

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Si Phan Don The famous 4,000 Islands region of Laos unfolds at the Mekong River's tail end. Situated in the far south and lapping over into Cambodia, the area is renowned for its tranquil village life, spectacular waterfalls, and unspoiled natural beauty. It's also home to the rare pink Irrawaddy Dolphin. The two most popular islands are Don Khong, which is the largest and most developed in the region, and backpacker-magnet Don Det. Prices for food and accommodation are some of the cheapest in Asia. Many tourists use the area as an entry point into Cambodia, with buses frequently making the one-hour journey to the border. Action lovers can look forward to plenty of hiking, biking and swimming opportunities, while relaxation seekers can enjoy bungalows with waterside balconies. Water safaris are a great way to see the dolphins, though travellers should ask guides not to go too far. They'll owe border-crossing fees if they stray into nearby Cambodia. All things considered, Si Phan Don is a tremendous stop for young travellers or those operating on a tight budget.

Victory Gate (Patuxai) Modelled to mirror the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, Laos' Victory Gate is definitely a sight to behold. Indeed, Laotians decided to one-up their former colonial masters by building theirs slightly higher and with four gates instead of two. Patuxai also has a number of decorative Buddhist ornamentations. As a matter of fact, the Royal Laotian Government constructed the monument with American funds and cement that were intended to build an airport, earning it the nickname, 'vertical runway'. Seven flights of stairs or a lift lead to the top, which offers great views of downtown Vientiane. Visitors will find souvenir shops in between flights of steps, though they're quite expensive. The area is also home to the World Peace Gong (presented to Laos by Indonesia), and a musical fountain. Travellers won't struggle to find excellent photo opportunities.

COPE Visitor Centre The COPE Visitor Centre can be a sobering reality-check for many tourists, but is definitely worth a visit. Statistically, Laos is the world's most bombed country, made so by a US precautionary policy during the Vietnam War. Essentially, the US military considered it unsafe for planes to land with unused ordinance, so they dropped their bombs over Laos. Many are unaware of this tragic and embarrassing aspect of the Vietnam War. Today, Laos still has a significant amount of unexploded ordinance (UXOs), particularly in rural areas along the border with Vietnam, where many residents have been victims. The COPE Visitor Centre does vital work in educating the public and tourists. It also provides help for those who have lost limbs or loved ones to bombs. The centre includes a gift shop and a selection of short films on Laos and UXOs. Visitors may have to request to see the films, but the staff are helpful and knowledgeable. As the centre isn't far out of town, many tourists hire bikes and cycle to it. Visitors will only need an hour to tour the place and explore an important aspect of the country's past and present. Also, anyone planning to travel off the beaten track in Laos should know how to recognise and react to UXOs.

Address: Boulevard Khou Vieng, Vientiane, Laos Website: http://copelaos.org/

Houey Hong Vocational Training Center for Women Opening time: Monday through Saturday: 08.30am - 12.00pm, 1.30pm - 16.30pm In recent years, the Houey Hong Vocational Training Center for Woman has been among the most popular tourist attractions in Laos. The centre's mission is to provide training and education for Lao women from disadvantaged backgrounds. Ultimately, the institution helps them transition into the contemporary economy by teaching them skills such as natural dyeing, traditional Lao weaving, tailoring and small business administration. Visitors are not just casual observers. Instead, they partake in half-day or full-day courses of their choice, and are taught skills ranging from tie-dyeing silks to traditional Lao weaving with a loom. The Houey Hong Center is a short tuk-tuk ride from downtown Vientiane and offers tourists an unforgettable experience of traditional textile manufacturing. Visitors keep whatever items they make, meaning they leave with special souvenirs.

Address: Lane 22, Houey Hong Village, Chantabury District, Vientiane Telephone: +856 21 560006 Website: www.houeyhongvientiane.com

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Ho Phra Kaew Opening time: Daily: 8am to 12pm; 1pm to 4pm. Ho Phra Kaew is one of Vientiane's oldest and most grandiose temples. Its extremely interesting history sheds light on Laos' past relations with Thailand. More specifically, King Setthathirath built the temple in 1565 for the express purpose of housing the Emerald Buddha, which he had pilfered from Chiang Mai City in Northern Thailand. Made of gold and green jadeite, the statue was recaptured by the Siamese army in 1778 and returned to Bangkok - where it has remained. Yet even without the Emerald Buddha, Ho Phra Kaew should easily make the bucket list of anyone interested in the region. Indeed, this national monument exposes visitors to Laos' varied cultural heritage. The museum's displays include a heavily lacquered 16th-century door carved with Hindu images, and a collection of stone-cut figures representing Khmer deities. Photographs are permitted and there is a small entry fee.

Address: Rue Setthathirath, Vientiane

Talat Sao (Morning Market) Opening time: Monday to Friday: 7am to 6pm (some stalls may close earlier). Vientiane's Talat Sao (Morning Market) has two decidedly different sections. Depending on their budget and the type of experience they're looking for, visitors can choose between the shopping mall and the original Morning Market. The mall has a range of shops and services over five floors, and its air-conditioning provides a much appreciated break from the country's tropical heat. Shoppers will find a food court, a cinema, a supermarket and a children's play area in the complex. Clothes stores stock practical rather than cutting-edge-fashion items; naïve travellers have unwittingly bought replica electronic products in the past. The bustling market operates from early morning to mid-afternoon, and is a labyrinth of clean, tiled alleyways. Shoppers can expect an authentic experience, with vendors coming from all over Laos to sell and source goods. Hand-woven fabrics, silver jewellery and other local handicrafts are favourite purchases. Bargaining is expected and generally good-natured, so tourists should remember to smile while trying to beat down a price.

Address: Talat Sao Mall, Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane Telephone: +856 21 285 001

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Nightlife in Vientiane, Laos

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Shopping in Vientiane, Laos

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Dining in Vientiane, Laos

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Airports in Vientiane Vientiane International (VTE) Wattay International Airport

Location: Vientiane The airport is six miles (10km) from Vientiane. Time: Local time is GMT +7 Transfer between terminals: The terminals are within easy walking distance of each other. Getting to the city: Taxis and tuk-tuks are available outside both terminals. Many local hotels offer free shuttle transfers for guests by prior arrangement. Car rental: Avis by Asia Vehicle Rental and Sixt are represented at the airport. However, visitors are advised not to hire a car. Instead, they should book a car with a driver through their hotel or travel agent. Airport Taxis: Taxi counters are located near the exit of each terminal; passengers must buy a taxi coupon before leaving the airport. Facilities: Facilities at the airport include banks, bars, restaurants, duty-free shopping, a post office and a couple of shops. Parking: Parking is available at the airport.

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Currency The Lao Kip (LAK) is the legal currency unit. US Dollars, Euros and Thai Baht are also accepted in many places and are more convenient to carry than large stacks of the local currency. Banks, hotels, and jewellery shops all offer currency exchange services. For everyday expenses, visitors should carry a mix of US Dollars and Kip. For larger items, or when the exchange rate is favourable, travellers should use US dollars. For local transport, street-food stalls and minor purchases, Kip will serve visitors better. When in rural areas, travellers should carry a supply of small notes as change can be hard to come by. Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most international hotels, many shops and restaurants, and a few tourist-orientated establishments in Luang Prabang and Vientiane. In other parts of the country, visitors should assume that only cash is accepted. Banks are generally open Monday to Friday from 8am to 12pm, and then again from 2pm to 3pm. ATMs are available in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Pakse and other major towns. Travellers should note that ATMs distribute only Lao Kip, with a maximum of around 1,000,000 Kip per transaction.

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