Lonely Planet Vang Vieng

Laos Overland Journey ' Your Ticket to the Natural and Cultural Wonders of the Country   

by Exotissimo Traveler

Laos is approximately 230000 square kilometers. In case you were wondering, it is not a big country at all. In comparison, Vietnam is approximately 331000, Thailand is at about 514000, Myanmar at around 678000. This makes an overland journey around the country a doable task. And it makes it becomes easier considering the relaxing and laid back air the country naturally exudes.

Start off with a bang! Begin your journey at the UNESCO Heritage town of Luang Prabang. The place's glittering temples, hints of European influence, tree-line boulevards and overall cleanliness have done its job in impressing people. What do you think? Pay a visit to a local art exhibition and partake in a Lao tea-tasting ceremony. Ready for some work? The 328 steps of Mopunt Phousi should give you a bit of a work out. But the reward is justified a bird's eye view of the town and surrounding countryside.

Your stay here is more than just Luang Prabang. Just off the town boundaries are two interesting and quite contrasting sites. You can't help but feel a little puzzled by Pak Ou Caves. Why? Have you noticed the thousands of Buddha statues? Who put them there? Why? All will be answered there. Once you have deciphered the mysteries of Pak Ou, head over to the refreshing waters of Kuang Si Falls. Yes, go on ahead and jump in. It is tempting, isn't it?

Hop in and head on over to Vang Vieng. Traveling along the scenic Route 13, stop by Kasi and enjoy some locally produced fruit. As you make your way to Vang Vieng, you can't help but be impressed by the limestone karsts that seemingly burst out of the ground. And to add to the natural beauty of the place, a river runs right through them. Just doing absolutely nothing is time well spent here. Or if you're the active type, trek around and explore these caves. Just don't forget to observe the sunset. It is a beauty here!

And now on to Vientiane. And you will get there by a Nam Ngum Lake trip. You'll slowly cruise the waters as you take in the smooth and quiet aura of the place. Witness countryside Laos at its best here.

You'd be surprised to know that Vientiane is the capital of Laos. Yes, this small little town. But then again, haven't a lot of things in Laos surprised you? Explore the place and discover the many monuments that dot the city, ranging from the historical Wat Sisaket, the national symbol that is Pha That Luang and Laos' own version of the Arc de Triomphe. If Lao coffee has eluded you throughout this trip (it'd be very surprising if that is the case) then take a sip here, recapping your Overland Laosjourney.

www.exotissimo.com/

Established in 1993, Exotissimo Travel is a well known Tour Operator in Asia. We have the expertise and connections to create your perfect inspirational tours as well as customized programs in Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Indonesia and Japan at the best possible price. Your experience guarantees stops to the main sites as well as the hidden spots, giving you a true sense of the culture and rewarding you with unforgettable memories.

 

Ballooning in Vang Vieng, Laos

lonely planet vang vieng