Vietenne - Call this a capital?

Trip Start Oct 07, 2007
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42
Trip End ??? ??, 2008


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Flag of Lao Peoples Dem Rep  ,
Friday, April 18, 2008

Vietenne is as you'd imagine the capital of Laos to be - completely laid back and with more of a town than city feel.  It's well and truly on the tourist trail and there are falang (foreigners) everywhere.  It's also pretty pricey by SE Asia standards - the Laos people like to make their money as easily as possible!

For a capital city there's also relatively little to do and see and lots of places seem to be closed while we're there.  We take a stroll around and have a look at the numerous wats (temples), visit the market and check out their rather misguided attempt at replicating the Arc de Triomphe.  Even the plaque on the arch admits it's not the most impressive building and since it was never finished you can still see the concrete reinforcement bars sticking out of it.

The one thing Vietenne does have is a decent set of bars and restaurants so at least in the evenings the place is pretty lively.
Luang Prabang hotels

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