In October 2024, I decided to explore Isaan. I knew numerous people coming from the east of Thailand. However, even after visiting Thailand over 20 times, I had never made it to Isaan. Following my own rule, “what you have not seen with your own eyes, you cannot comment on,” I decided to travel for two weeks on the train through Isaan.
So I started to make plans. But how to start? Really fast, I realized that it’s maybe the easiest way to kick off my trip to fly to Vientiane in Laos. From there, I could take the train to Bangkok and pass by Nong Khai, Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, and Korat.
And so, I began my journey in Vientiane. Before I crossed the Friendship Bridge to Thailand, I had one day in the capital of Laos. The entire video series of my trip to Isaan is now on this Youtube playlist.
About the city
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is home to around 1 million people and sits gracefully along the Mekong River near the border with Thailand. As the country’s political, cultural, and economic center, it blends French colonial charm with traditional Lao architecture and Buddhist heritage.
What to visit in Vientiane?
I had limited time available, so I decided to stay inside the city. However, there are a couple of beautiful places in the city of Vientiane. You can find all those places in the linked video about the city.
The COPE Center: The COPE (Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise) Center in Vientiane is a powerful and moving place that shows a lesser-known chapter of Lao history. Established to support people living with disabilities, especially those affected by unexploded ordnance (UXO) left behind from the Vietnam War era, the center provides prosthetic limbs, mobility devices, and rehabilitation services across the country. Laos remains the most heavily bombed country per capita in history, and COPE plays a crucial role in helping survivors rebuild their lives. A visit to the center is both educational and emotional, offering insightful exhibits, survivor stories, and a more in-depth understanding of the ongoing impact of war on local communities.
The Patuxai Victory Monument: The Patuxai Victory Monument is one of Vientiane’s most iconic landmarks. It stands at the end of Lane Xang Avenue, often referred to as the “Champs-Élysées of Vientiane.” Built between 1957 and 1968 to honor those who fought for Laos’ independence from France, the monument combines traditional Lao design elements with European architectural influences, earning it the nickname “Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane.”
King Anouvong Statue: The Chao Anouvong Statue stands prominently along the Mekong River in Vientiane’s Chao Anouvong Park. Erected in 2010 to commemorate the 450th anniversary of Vientiane’s founding, this eight-meter bronze statue honors King Anouvong, the last monarch of the Kingdom of Vientiane, who reigned from 1805 to 1828. King Anouvong is remembered for leading a significant, unsuccessful rebellion against Siamese dominance to reclaim Lao sovereignty. The statue depicts him extending his right arm toward Thailand, symbolizing his defiance and desire to protect his nation.
Sisaket Temple: Wat Si Saket, located in Vientiane, Laos, is the city’s oldest surviving temple, constructed in 1818 by King Anouvong. Remarkably, it withstood the Siamese invasion of 1828, possibly due to its Siamese-style architecture, which features a five-tiered roof and a surrounding terrace. The temple is renowned for housing over 10,000 Buddha images made from wood, stone, and bronze, many displayed in niches along the cloister walls.
