Vientiane, Laos – The Most Zen Capital in Southeast Asia

📌 Must-Visit Attractions
1. Pha That Luang 🛕
- Laos' national treasure, this golden stupa is the country's symbol and is said to enshrine a hair of Buddha.
- 🕐 Opening hours: Tue-Sun 8:00-16:00
- 🎫 Ticket: ~12 CNY

2. Patuxai (Victory Monument)
- Built to commemorate Laos' independence, blending French style with Lao Buddhist carvings. Climb to the top for panoramic city views.
- 🕐 Opening hours: 24/7
- 🎫 Ticket: Free

3. That Dam (Black Stupa) [TokyoTower]
- One of Vientiane's oldest stupas, legend says it was once covered in gold leaf, now only a weathered stone tower remains.
- 🕐 Opening hours: 24/7
- 🎫 Ticket: Free

4. Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
- A park filled with Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, 📸 perfect for photos.
- 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00-17:00
- 🎫 Ticket: ~15 CNY

5. Wat Sisaket
- Vientiane's best-preserved temple, housing thousands of Buddha niches.
- 🕐 Opening hours: 8:00-17:00
- 🎫 Ticket: ~12 CNY

6. Vientiane Night Market
- Riverside night market selling handicrafts, clothes, and snacks, 🌄 ideal for evening strolls.
- 🕐 Opening hours: 18:00-23:00

🍜 Food Recommendations
1. PHOZAP Fried Spring Rolls 🌯
- Crispy outside, soft inside, served with sweet-sour sauce – a must-try snack.
- Hours: 06:30–16:30
2. Kualao Restaurant
- A national banquet-level restaurant offering authentic Lao dishes like grilled river weed and bamboo shoot soup.
- 🕐 Hours: 11:00-22:00
3. The Cubano by Phanhsy Cafe
- ☕ Signature Cuban latte, retro ambiance, 📸 great for photos.
4. Tree Town Cafe
- Nature-themed café perfect for relaxing and snapping pics.

🏨 Accommodation Recommendations
1. Ruby Hotel Vientiane
- Convenient location, clean and stylish rooms, close to major attractions.
2. Mali Namphu Hotel
- Traditional Lao style, near the night market, quiet environment.
3. Vientiane Center Hotel
- Centrally located for easy city exploration.

🚗 Transportation Tips
- Airport to city: [TaxiFront] Take a taxi (~30 mins) or bus.
- City transport: [Electrocar] Rent a motorbike or use tuk-tuks (remember to bargain).
- Intercity travel: Buses to Vang Vieng (~3 hrs) or Luang Prabang (~5 hrs).

⚠️ Travel Tips
1. Best time to visit: Nov-Feb (dry season, cool weather).
2. Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees when entering temples.
3. Currency: Lao Kip (KIP), carry small bills.
4. Safety: Vientiane is generally safe, but avoid walking alone at night in secluded areas.