Monday 8 July 2013

5 – 7 July 2013 – Vientiane, Laos

We arrived in the nation’s capital after a rocky, bone rattling journey of 10½ hours in a sleeper bus from Pakse.  Our compartment wasn’t as small as we had feared – probably just a little wider than a single bed and only just long enough for both of us to lie fully stretched out. This is fine if you are travelling together as a couple – but if you are a solo traveller you don’t know who you might be sharing your compartment with. Some solo travellers actually purchase two bus tickets but perhaps it’s a good way to meet new friends!

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Presidential Palace

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The cloister at Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple in Vientiane

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Locals playing boules on the street

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Vientiane’s answer to the Arc de Triomphe – the Victory Gate (officially called Patuxai) built to commemorate Laos who had died in pre-revolutionary wars

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How would you like your frog?  Rare, medium or well done?

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The bizarre Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park) – a small area crammed with concrete Hindu and Buddhist statues

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Baguette vendors in Talat Sao Bus Station

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Tarte aux pommes at Vientiane’s best bakery – Le Banneton

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