Lao has only recently opened its gates to tourism. Sabaidee means hello and can be used at any time of day. If it is used with a smile it breaks the ice. The ice is created by the lack of knowledge of English by Lao people, even those in the tourism industry. So communicating is not easy but exploring the country is more than worthwhile.
Vientiane is the capital of Lao while Luang Prabang is its spiritual capital. Many Buddhist Temples are scattered throughout Luang Prabang.
Pak Ou Cave or Buddha Cave is one of the spiritual sights and can be reached by local boat along Mekong and Ou rivers. The boat trip is scenic, the views from the cave upon the Ou River magic and the shrines are decorated by pilgrims.
The slash and burn land cultivation creates a hazy picture of the landscape. Even the sunsets on Mekong River are seen through a soft focus lens. A stroll after the sunset through the main street, closed to traffic, is a must. The street becomes a market and a colorful collection of jewelry, woodcarvings, textiles, silks and nicks knacks.
Swimming in Mekong River is not recommended. However, Luang Prabang is home to Kuang Si waterfalls. It is a number of waterfalls; bigger and smaller, separated by terraces of pools of water like Pamukale in Turkey. The water is refreshing, clean and pleasant to swim in.
Luang Prabang is also home to many Buddhist monks. The locals and some visitors gather on sunrise to give alms and pay respect to the monks.
Luang Prabang represents well preserved architecture, restored temples, history dating back to the 14th century like Pha Bang statue of Buddha which gave its name to the town and is located in the former King’s Palace, now a National Museum.) Traditional villages, some across a bamboo bridge that can be an adventure to walk on, also surround the town.
While Luang Prabang is a relaxing, spiritual place Vientiane is a busy, commercial center. Still Vientiane has its share of temples, stupas, history and colonial and Chinese architecture. Talat Sao, the Morning Market, is in the center of Vientiane and a short walk from Mekong River waterfront, Wat Ho Phra Keo – a temple built in the 16th century and That Dam – a stupa where a seven headed naga (snake) lives and protects Vientiane from invasions. Buddha Park is a conglomerate of many sculptures set in green surrounds, called Xieng Khuan, or Spirit City it contains both Hindu and Buddha statues. The Mekong River waterfront is enchanting and lights up at night with colorful Night Market, fountain and statues. The Mekong is barely a trickle awaiting the monsoon but the promenade is the coolest place in town to take a walk.
Vientiane’s Arc de Triumph, Patuxay, is impressive. In fact, Patuxay, Victory Gate, is more majestic than Arc de Triumph in Paris is. Both honor those that died for the country only while Arc de Triumph honors those who died for France, Patuxay honors those who fought French in the struggle for independence from France.
Vientiane is a charming city and a perfect starting or ending point to a visit to Lao. Vientiane leaves one with a feeling of spiritual peace and calmness.
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