LAO 02: LAOS, THE LAND OF SMILE  

Destination         : Laos (Vientiane)
Duration               : 03 days/ 02 nights, daily departure
Trip cost               : From Economy to Superior & Deluxe Class
Grade                    : Moderate to Adventurous
Mode                     : Private package tour

Description

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is located on the banks of the Mekong River. Across a narrow stretch of water is northern Thailand, a country with similar traditions and ethnic minorities; only a few hundred yards of water separate these two countries, but almost 50 years of isolation has left Laos a very different country from its neighbor. Vientiane is a composite of many cultural influences; wide tree-lined boulevards and timeless villas are the legacy of the French, whose influence stretched across Indochina from the late 1890s until the Geneva Accord of 1954. In Vientiane you will find the glittering stupa of That Luang, the largest stupa in Laos, constructed in 1566 by King Setthathirat. Vientiane, like its neighbor Phnom Penh, has the Patusay Victory Gate; both are reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

 Itinerary:

 Day 01: Arrival Vientiane (by air & road)
On arrival in the Laos capital of Vientiane, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel. Vientiane is a charming and fascinating capital, with an interesting mix of Lao, Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, French, and American influences. After a short rest, we start visiting the major sights of the capital; including the Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple with thousands of miniature Buddha statues, and the former royal temple of Wat Prakeo, which previously housed the famous Emerald Buddha Image. Enroute to Lao’s national icon, the precious and sacred structure of That Luang Stupa, you will have the opportunity to take some pictures of the imposing Patuxay Monument, which is known as Vientiane’s own Arc de Triumph. The Mekong river side is the perfect place to end the day and admire the sunset. Overnight in Vientiane (B)

 Day 02: Vientiane- Na Ngum Lake (road)
After breakfast, we head out of the city and make our way to Nam Ngum, a huge reservoir created by damming the Nam Ngum River.  We stop over at Ban Keun, which is famous for its salt extraction plant and a village that distills the local Lao whiskey. On arrival at Nam Ngum Lake, we embark on a long tail boat visiting fishing villages in the various islets. We take a short walk to explore the lifestyle of the local fishermen. On return, [if time permits], perhaps you might want to experience gambling at the legal Lao casino located in the valley where you can also enjoy a beautiful view of the lake. We return to Vientiane by late evening. Overnight in Vientiane (B)

Day 03: Departure (by air)
After breakfast, we visit the Morning Market and (if time permits). The tour ends after your transfer to the airport for departure (B)

End of services.