Must See Laos - Vientiane

Laos' capital city and seat of government sits on a bend in the Mekong River amid fertile alluvial plains. Despite its chequered past, Vientiane (pronounced 'Wieng Chan' by the locals) is a laid-back city with a number of interesting wats (Buddhist monasteries) and lively markets.

The most important national monument in Laos is Pha That Luang (the Great Sacred Stupa), which is a symbol of both Buddhism and Lao sovereignty. Other sights of interest include Wat Pha Kaew, a former royal temple which is now a museum, and Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in Vientiane.

Vientiane has around 10 top-end hotels and as many guesthouses - many of them are moderately expensive, but plenty of lower-priced rooms have become available in the last few years. You can eat at cafes, street stalls, beer halls or restaurants that offer everything from rice noodles to filet mignon. For good Lao meals, try the Dong Palan Night Market on the east bank of the Nong Chan ponds.