During a trip to Bangkok – where my husband and I were cheering for the Uzbekistan national sumo team at the 2025 World Championship – the idea suddenly arose: why not fly to Vientiane? Just an hour and ten minutes on Thai Airways – and a new world opened before me: the gentle rhythm of the Asian capital and the charming smiles of the people greeting you right at the aircraft stairs.

The Hotel – Part of the Experience

For me, choosing a hotel is always important, especially when it’s a new destination: safety is priority number one. In addition, qualified staff can always share useful information about local sights and places worth visiting.

We chose DoubleTree by Hilton – and we were very happy with this decision. The hotel is located in the central part of the city, next to a pedestrian street with cafés and small shops. And right across the street – Hard Rock Café: a symbol of Western culture against a backdrop of red flags with the hammer and sickle. A contrast one cannot forget.

The price also pleased us: 120 USD for a five-star hotel that has been operating for just one year, with new furniture and excellent bathrooms. From our room we enjoyed a magnificent view of the Mekong River.

Culinary Discoveries

As a true admirer of gastronomic experiences, I must praise the breakfast. The buffet impressed us with its variety, as did the à la carte options. Here I tasted my favorite laksa soup – and I must say, the best laksa of my life was prepared in Laos by a Thai chef! Thanks to the friendly and attentive staff, we instantly felt at home.

How to Explore Vientiane in Two Days

You can get to know Vientiane, the capital of Laos, in just two days. On the first day, we joined a tour booked on Viator.com. Not the cheapest option, but it was absolutely worth it: comfortable transportation, English-speaking guides, and a personalized itinerary.

Our first stop was Buddha Park – a picturesque oasis on the banks of the Mekong River with more than 800 sculptures dedicated to Buddha and Buddhist motifs. Two works impressed me especially – the “Hell Sphere” and the “Stairway to Heaven,” facing one another, as if inviting the viewer to reflect on spiritual paths.

Later, the guide showed us several temples and monasteries, as well as the place where the famous Emerald Buddha was once kept – before it was transferred to Bangkok, where it remains to this day, in the Grand Palace.

The Laotian answer to Paris – Patuxai – also cannot be overlooked. From its upper observation deck opens a panoramic view of the city: soft rooflines, green treetops, and wide boulevards. Looking into the distance, one inevitably begins to dream of future trips – and makes a wish.

Another place that absolutely must be visited is the COPE Visitor Center. This museum serves as a reminder of how, during the Vietnam War, unused bombs were dropped onto Laos and how their consequences affected Laotian families. It is a place that teaches empathy and respect for the fragility of human life.

Our first day in Vientiane turned out to be rich, educational, inspiring, and at times emotionally serious, prompting reflection on the destructive consequences of war.

A Slower Rhythm and Human Warmth

We decided to spend the second day at a calmer pace: sleeping in and having breakfast at the hotel. During breakfast, we started chatting with the restaurant manager – a pleasant and polite person. I watched how respectfully he treated his staff. After numerous hotels and restaurants I’ve visited over many years of traveling, you begin to especially appreciate humble, honest, and sincere people around the world.

Our taxi was already waiting for us, and we headed to the Lao Art Museum. The trip takes on average 40–60 minutes, depending on traffic. You should allow at least two hours for the museum. It is a modern, beautifully organized space filled with stunning wooden sculptures.

I must mention that it is a perfect spot for Instagram-style photos. Don’t forget to charge your phone and bring a power bank!

Bring cash or a card – or better, both – because after such emotional immersion, you’ll likely want to shop. I hadn’t planned to buy anything, but in the end I purchased two white jade rings. One of them will now be a pleasant reminder not only of the art museum, but also of our spontaneous trip to Laos.

Kop chai (thank you), Laos. Until next time.