Published on May, 2025
We were short on time and this half-day tour gave us a quick overview of the significant landmarks of Vientiane. While there was a little bit of a mix-up on our pickup location, Bravo IndoChina Tours did an excellent job communicating and making sure we got back on track. Our guide (Kham, if I recall correctly) was a veritable storehouse of knowledge. The car and driver were excellent and a real comfort in the hot and humid weather. We started at the Wat Sisaket, an excellent primer on Laotian temple style and architecture. Then on to Wat Phra Keo where we got to see some stunning and beautiful temple architecture. An interesting replica from the Plain of Jars gave a brief glimpse for those who cannot make it to the original site. The flowering trees and flowers all over the city were a real delight. After a walk beside the Presidential palace grounds, we went to That Luang, the holiest site in Laos. This is a very impressive structure and definitely a must see! Next stop Patuxay Monument by day. Got to climb to the top and see the sights of modernization creep at a distance. There are a couple of display floors on the climb to the top, which are a must stop to read to understand the local history. Finally we stopped at COPE. This is a small museum inside a Rehab Hospital for mine victims. Such an inspiring story and a wake up call for all. Thanks Kham and the Driver for making our trip so worthwhile.