"The Quietest Capital" Vientiane by DSwede

Having been to nearly all capital cities in SE Asia, I will say that Vientiane is quite possibly the quietest and sleepiest. The chaos of the traffic and incessant noises of people and city life has not yet found this place. It is quiet, almost eerily quiet after 11pm...

Other than the political and economic reasons, some more open minded people conjecture that its related to the old city name, "Vieng Chan". Back in the early (~1560's), the Chinese name was "City of the Moon". Possibly the quiet streets are tied with the lunar influence of night... (or maybe its the curfew)

Vientiane is perched on the north side of the Mekong, opposite from Thailand on the south bank. Even though it is just a river separating the two physically, there is little evidence in the city of Thailand's proximity. There are no Thai restaurants, crafts and few Thai business men in the city.

Vientiane is the capital of modern Laos. With that, it is the focal point of the Communist party. If you read my general tip on my main Laos page, you will note my opinion on the juxtaposition between this city and Luang Prabang to the north. Vientiane is still the iconic communist party headquarters and propagates the anti-imperialist sentiment against its foes (at least in the Museum that is). Luang Prabang on the other hand endorses its mixed French past and highlights the forgotten monarchy.

Patu Xay from the fountain

I came into Vientiane from the south, arriving from Pakse and Savannakhet. After wards, I continued north, first stopping at the backpacker haven known as Vang Vieng.

Feel free to visit my Laos page for more details on my extended holiday here.

(for more pictures, feel free to visit my Laos Gallery. If you enjoy the pictures, please leave a comment.)

• Pros:Renting a cheap bike and seeing the city is quite easy.
• Cons:The afternoon heat can be quite much.
• In a nutshell:Of capital cities, this is one of the quietest and sleepiest I've ever been to.