LAOS - Destinations & Hotels
Vientiane
This laid back city is unlike any other Asian capital. Development has been slow and the pace of life is even slower. Vientiane has managed to maintain its peaceful charm where other regional capitals have sold their soul. There is not a lot to see in terms of actual sights - you can see almost the entire city on foot in a day. It is well worth it if only to witness the relaxed atmosphere.
The principal places of interest are the temples of Wat That Luang and the Patuxai, a Laotian building resembling Paris’ L’Arc de Triomphe! It was built in 1969 with US purchased cement allegedly to be used for the construction of a new airport. Known to many as "Victory Monument" it honours those who lost their lives at war. You can embark on a reasonably easy climb to the top and if the structural design does not seize your attention, the panorama at the summit undoubtedly will, on a clear day you can see for many miles in each direction.
Vientiane Hotels
Vientiane | Green Park Hotel | $$
Character Boutique
This small hotel has become a firm favourite in the capital since opening just a few years ago. It is centrally located just a few blocks from the Mekong River, within walking distance of the morning market, and within a kilometre of the victory gate, the important city temples and the National...
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Vientiane | The Ansara | $$$
Character Boutique
Ideally located down a quiet lane in the heart of the capital, the Ansara is a stunning boutique style property and a welcome addition to Vientiane’s hotel scene.
The Ansara features just twelve rooms and two suites which are split into 3 quirkily named categories, the Savvy Rooms,...
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Vientiane | Settha Palace Hotel | $$$$
Character Boutique, Historic Hotel
Originally constructed in 1932, the luxurious Settha Palace Hotel has been restored to its former charm. Re-opened in 1999, French colonial architecture, period furniture, and landscaped gardens are some of the features of this historical landmark in the heart of Vientiane. The hotel is located...
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Vientiane | Beau Rivage | $$
Modern Chic
This small simple hotel is located overlooking the banks of the Mekong River out towards Don Chan Island and is just a short tuk tuk ride to all the key tourist sites. It has the feel of walking in to a sparse but contemporary modern art gallery; it even refers to itself as an “Art Hotel”....
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Vientiane | Ban Pako Eco-Lodge (50km's from Vientiane) | $$
Eco-friendly, Remote location
This simple lodge, built with natural materials in a Lao-style, has a spectacular view of the Ngum River, forest and the Phu Kha Khouai (Buffalo Horn Mountains). The lodge is perfectly located for “getting away” from Vientiane. Ban Pako took three years to build and was opened in 1995....
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