We took a train from Bangkok to Vientiane, enjoying scenic views as we entered the city. Our chosen accommodation was Auberge Sala Inpeng at 063 Inpent Street, Ban Watchan.
We had lunch and spent the rest of the day at a TinTin-themed bar. My friends went sightseeing, but I couldn’t resist the fun decor, the mini burgers and beer.
As evening approached, we dined at Makphet, an award-winning restaurant supporting street children in Laos. Our contribution not only offered a delicious meal but also supported meaningful local initiatives.
After dinner, our energy remained high, so we decided to explore the lively street food scene at the night market along the Mekong River in Laos.
The next day, we booked a tour agency and went around Vientiane. Despite preferring to explore on our own, the time constraint of less than eight hours led us to book a tour with an agency.
Following breakfast at Sala Impeng served on the porch of our villa, we boarded our bus.
Vientiane, the capital and largest city of Laos, is situated on the Mekong River.
Our initial destination was the Buddha Park, known for its iconic reclining Buddha.
Buddha Park boasts a collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures dispersed amidst lush gardens and trees. Notably, visitors can ascend the pumpkin-shaped structure, featuring three stories representing hell, earth, and heaven, for a panoramic view of the park.
Following our visit to Buddha Park, we proceeded to Pha That Luang. Regarded as Laos' most significant national monument and a symbol of the nation, Pha That Luang is a gold-covered stupa located at the heart of Vientiane.
After a satisfying lunch, our exploration continued with a series of temple visits, encompassing Wat Si Muang, Wat Si Saket, and Haw Phra Kaew.
Wat Si Muang intrigued us, especially due to its fascinating legend. The temple is named after Si Muang, a young woman who sacrificed herself over 400 years ago to calm angry spirits. She threw herself into a hole in the ground where the building’s central pillar was to be placed, and tragically, she was crushed when the massive pillar was lowered into position.
Just a little note, I won’t mention the tour operator because we weren’t fully satisfied. Lunch was supposed to be included, but there was confusion, and our guide had to check with the office. That was fine, but the real letdown was the bus to Hanoi. We paid for a luxury service, but it didn’t meet our expectations.
0 comments