Phou Khao Khouay National Park: A Nature Escape Just Outside Vientiane
Phou Khao Khouay National Park is one of the closest natural escapes from Vientiane and a popular destination for both locals and foreigners who want to spend time outdoors without traveling far from the capital. Located around one to one and a half hours from the city, the park offers forests, waterfalls, and quiet trails
Where to Go Trekking Around Vientiane
For visitors staying in Vientiane, trekking may not be the first activity that comes to mind. The capital is mostly flat, calm, and urban. However, just outside the city, there are several natural areas where residents and travelers can enjoy trekking, hiking, and forest walks without traveling far. The most accessible trekking destination near the
Bor Pen Nyang: A Relaxed Evening Spot for Food, Games, and Friends in Vientiane
Bor Pen Nyang continues to be one of the well-known evening hangout spots in Vientiane, popular among both local residents and foreigners looking for a casual place to spend the night. Located in the capital, Bor Pen Nyang offers a relaxed setting where visitors can enjoy food, have drinks, and unwind after a long day.
Phra That Phon and the Stone House Ruins: Quiet National Heritage Sites in Southern Laos
In southern Laos, there are many heritage places that locals hold close to their hearts, even if they are not widely known among travelers. ພຣະທາດໂຜ່ນ and the nearby ຜາສາດເຮືອນຫີນ are two such sites—both officially recognized as national heritage and deeply connected to the history and spiritual life of the region. Phra That Phon is a
Wat Phou Champasak Festival 2026 to Be Held in Grand Celebration
The annual Wat Phou Champasak Festival 2026 will be held on a grand scale from 31 January to 2 February 2026 at Wat Phou Champasak, one of Laos’ most important historical and spiritual sites. The official opening ceremony is scheduled for the evening of 31 January 2026. This year’s festival is especially significant as it
Lao Fruits You Shouldn’t Miss: Fresh Flavors Hard to Find Elsewhere
One of the quiet joys of traveling in Laos is discovering local fruits that taste very different from what many visitors know from supermarkets in Europe or other parts of the world. Fruits in Laos are usually eaten fresh, seasonal, and often enjoyed with simple dips or just as they are. Mango is one of
Where to Buy English-Language Books in Vientiane
VIENTIANE, LAOS — Travelers and expats looking for English-language books in Vientiane will be pleasantly surprised to find several reliable options around the city. While Vientiane is not a large book market, there are a few well-known places where international books are easy to find and browse. One of the most popular stops is Monument
Swimming by the Mekong in Vientiane: What Visitors Should Know
VIENTIANE, LAOS — Many visitors staying along the Mekong River in Vientiane notice locals relaxing by the river and may wonder whether it is possible to swim there. The short answer is: yes, but only in very specific places and seasons, and with caution. Along the Mekong River near Vientiane, swimming is not generally recommended
Sangthong: A Quiet Escape Just Outside Vientiane
If you are looking for a peaceful place to slow down and relax without traveling far, Sangthong district is a destination worth considering. Located not far from Vientiane, Sangthong feels a world away from city life, with open countryside, riverside views, and a calm rural atmosphere. Sangthong is known for its natural scenery and simple
Visiting a Lao Home: Simple Etiquette for Meals, Parties, and Family Gatherings
Being invited to a Lao home—whether for a meal, a small party, or a family gathering—is a warm and meaningful gesture. Lao hospitality is sincere and generous, and guests are usually welcomed as part of the family. If you are a foreign visitor or someone new to Lao culture, a few simple practices can help