If you have never been to Laos, here are some reasons to visit this country. Laos is home to one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia, Vientiane. Vientiane is also the capital of Laos, and the city is famous for its 148-foot gold stupa. Be careful, though; there are many poisonous snakes in this country! Read on to learn more about Laos and its culture.
Vientiane is the largest city in Laos
Vientiane is the largest city in the country, with over 800,000 residents. The city has hosted the 28th ASEAN Summit and the 25th Southeast Asian Games, and is home to the mysterious Black Stupa. It is also a popular tourist destination, attracting travelers from around the world. To get the most out of your stay in Vientiane, here are some tips for a memorable trip.
Vientiane was founded in the late thirteenth century and became the capital city of the Lao kingdom in the mid-16th century. Prior to this, the Lao capital was Luang Prabang, which is now Louangphrabang. In 1778, the city was under Siamese control, and was destroyed in 1828 during a Laotian king’s revolt against Siamese hegemony. During World War II, Vientiane served as the seat of the French administrative capital and governor.
It’s the country’s most cosmopolitan city
Vientiane is Laos’ capital city and the largest city in the country. This vibrant city is full of historic monuments, including the Grand Stupa and Sisaket Temple. The city also boasts a thriving food scene. The National Library and Dongsaphangmeuk Library are located in Vientiane. If you’re looking for a place to relax, this is the place to go.
The French left their mark on the country when they took over in the 19th century, and Luang Prabang was soon a thriving metropolis with French architecture and lanterns shining in warm light. This cosmopolitan city still retains its old-world charm, and visitors will be able to delve into its colorful past. You’ll find beautiful wide tree-shaded boulevards, original Laotian houses, and numerous temples, not to mention several excellent restaurants.
It has a 148-foot gold stupa
The Great Stupa in Vientiane is a gold-covered dome-shaped Buddhist temple that is one of the most revered landmarks in the country. The structure was completed in 1566 by King Setthathirat. Its exterior looks like a fortress, but inside the walls are covered with Buddhist imagery. You can even learn a little English as some monks practice English. It’s a fascinating way to learn more about Lao culture.
If you’re visiting Laos, be sure to check out the golden splendor of Pha That Luang, also known as the “Vientiane Great Stupa.” It’s an enormous structure that rises 148 feet above the city skyline and is covered in gold leaf. This magnificent structure is located about four kilometers outside of the capital and makes for a wonderful day trip. While you’re in Vientiane, check out the vibrant night market on the waterfront.
It has a large number of poisonous snakes
The tiger and the Asian elephant are both incredibly endangered in Laos. Although there are lone tigers that pass through the country seasonally, the country does not have any functional tiger communities. However, there are tiger populations growing in neighboring countries such as China, Russia, and Nepal. While Laos is home to many poisonous snake species, most of them are not harmful to humans.
The Laotian government is concerned about the threat of snake bites, and they have shifted the majority of their attacks to seven major exit points, which include Cambodia and South Viet Nam. It has since worked to prevent snake bites by providing medical care and other educational material. However, snake bites are still an everyday occurrence in Laos. If you are traveling to the country with children, take the appropriate precautions to avoid snake bites.
It has a lack of public toilets
There is a lack of public toilets in rural areas, and many people defecate in the open. Only 28 percent of Laos’ population has access to public toilets, and many of these are closed to guests. In a 2013 UN report, the lack of public toilets is linked to 20 percent of children under five dying from water-borne diseases. Despite the high death toll, the country has seen significant improvements in its under-five mortality rate.
While many hotels claim to have hot water, Laos has no public restrooms. Public restrooms are generally squat toilets, which are better for your digestion than conventional ones. They do not always have toilet paper, either. Tampons are hard to find and are often considered unvirtuous by local women. Pads are easier to find, but the size is different from Western destinations.
It has a green travel zone plan
With the recent reopening of Vientiane International Airport, the Laos government has sent an official message to international visitors letting them know that the country is now open to fully vaccinated tourists. It’s all part of the Lao Travel Green Zone Plan, which aims to promote the country’s ecotourism potential. Green zones will be designated for three cities, Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vang Beng. In addition, the Vietnamese authorities have decided to create international entry points in the Laos (Vie and the Watlay Intl. airport), which is expected to encourage more tourism and business development.
As part of the plan, Laos will welcome international tourists in January 2022. The aim of the Green Travel Zone plan is to facilitate the safe travel of tourists during the Covid-19 period, thereby contributing to the economic recovery of the country. Furthermore, international tourism will also generate new income for the local people and help to raise the country’s revenue. But what exactly does a Green Travel Zone look like?