Talat Sao (Morning Market), Vientiane

Talat Sao, often called the Morning Market, is one of the main traditional markets in the Lao capital. It began to develop in the early 20th century as a place where traders and farmers sold goods brought from nearby villages and rural areas. In the past, most business happened early in the morning, which is how the market received its name. Today it stays open much longer, but it still reflects its history as a busy local trading center.

The market includes an older indoor section with many small stalls. Vendors sell clothing, fabrics, household items, electronics, jewelry, and souvenirs. Gold and silver shops are common, and visitors can also find traditional textiles for skirts and ceremonial clothing, often decorated with hand-woven patterns from different ethnic groups.

Food stalls are another active part of the market, selling simple dishes, fruit, snacks, and ingredients such as herbs, spices, dried fish, and fermented foods. A newer building on the property includes a four-storey shopping center and indoor parking, developed by Singapore Excalibur Group Pte Ltd at an estimated cost of US$27 million, while the traditional market continues to operate beside it.