5 Things not to Miss in Vientiane, Laos (Besides Temples), Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane is one of the smallest capital cities you are likely to visit in SE Asia with a population of around 800,000 people. This makes it very easy to get around to all the sights and many hostels and hotels will rent you a bicycle for a few KIP per day.

Looking a little like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris but with a Laotian twist, this grand monument actually stands to remember those who lost their lives in the struggle for independence against France.

It’s known by locals as the vertical runway as the cement it is constructed from was donated by the USA for the construction of a new airport.

For 3000 KIP ($0.40) you can take the lift or stairs to top of the monument for grand views across the capital and across the river towards Thailand. We got there a little late to do this but noticed the landscaped gardens are a popular spot for locals to gather at sunset and wait for the lights to come on.

From mid-afternoon, traders begin to set up their stalls in the paved area alongside the Mekong River.

This becomes a buzzing night market selling everything from fashion to electronics and handicrafts. It attracts a good mix of locals and tourists in search of a bargain and is worth a wander through. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).