Guide to Vientiane, Laos

Guide to Vientiane, Laos

By Simon Ramsden

Vientiane

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="240" caption="Vientiane (Photo credit: LightOnDude)"][/caption]

Unlike other southeast Asian capital cities, Vientiane is not a 24/7 frenzy of commerce. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it feel like a small town, which makes a kind of sense, for that is exactly what it is.

If there were a 'Mellowest Capital in the World' competition, Vientiane would win hands down. Backpackers head south to get drunk and float down the river that skirts the village of Vang Vieng. More sophisticated travellers zero in on Laos' luxurious capital, Vientiane, usually before a visit to Luang Prabang. Unusually for a capital, Vientiane lies just over a border - the one with Thailand, just across the Friendship Bridge. The influence that shines through most brightly, however, is French. For a start, the name is gallicised. The original name, Viangchan, which means 'City of the Moon' in the native Lao language, proved too tricky for the French tongue.

Expect French food, French flowers (marigolds), even the Arc de Triomphe - well, a monstrous concrete mockup, known as the Victory Arch. Dubbed the Vertical Runway because it was built with cement donated by the United States in 1969 for airport construction, the arch is a touch taller than the original, to spite the French, but unfinished. A sign blames this on Laos' tumultuous history, presumably meaning the punishment inflicted by the French, Japanese, Chinese, Burmese, Vietnamese, Thais and Americans. But all that was a while back. Even the sign itself recognizes the monument's deficiencies, calling it a 'monster of concrete'. No spin here. Cynics may wonder why the landlocked Communist state still cannot get its act together and finish the job. The decrepitude which the arch epitomises also extends to the streets, so be careful not to step in a pothole or sewer.

Be careful too of the tuk-tuk drivers, who are as enterprising as any you will meet in Asia. Always fix a price and clarify your destination before you jump in. Otherwise, expect to be taken to the wrong side of town for rather more Kip - the not-quite-worthless currency - than you care to cough up. The perfect remedy for a white-knuckle tuk-tuk ride is a session at one of Vientiane's many excellent and ridiculously cheap spas. For a flurry of Kip you can experience a massage far less brutal than the kind meted out by Thai pampering pugilists - and in much more atmospheric surroundings.

Blessed with bags of Indochinese style and with the cheeriest of residents, Vientiane blends Gallic flair with Asian mystique. This style also influences and permeates the sauces and aromas of the exquisite cuisine available in the world-class French restaurants at Fountain Square. For those travellers who are heartily sick of the sweet and sickly white wheat products falsely posturing as 'bread' across almost all of SE Asia, the lunch baguettes and breakfast croissants available throughout most of Laos will make a most welcome change.

The culinary alternative to Fountain Square is the Mekong. Its near bank is lined with scores of cheaper but still good Asian restaurants where diners lounge on mats and watch the sun set over the river while sipping a cold Beer Lao, the default and delicious state brew. If you can tear yourself away from Vientiane's culinary attractions, then maybe visit the Lao National History Museum. Set on the high street, it sounds and looks boring, but is brought to life by its jargon of jingoistic rage against the invader. Check out the photos of sniper peasants and the displays of chunky guns. 'Weapons ordered by the US imperialists for its puppets,' one caption screams.

If your spine can handle the bone-jarring 24 km ride, then take a trip from Vientiane to maybe the area's most memorable attraction: that memory card-consuming icon, Buddha Park sculpture garden. There, tilted at crazy angles, mammoth concrete statues of Buddhist and Hindu gods jostle with fantastical likenesses of real and imaginary beasts. The highlight must be the three-storey giant pumpkin-like representation of Hell, Earth and Heaven, which is entered through the jaws of a demon head. More kitsch than religious, but a fun day out. Apparently designed by Salvador Dali while drugged beyond his eyeballs, Buddha Park dates back to 1958 and owes its existence to the mystic seer Luang Pu Bunleua Sulilat, who left Laos after the 1975 communist takeover. The park cuts a contrast with the golden and gorgeous downtown temples that stick to the rulebook more but, like Buddha Park, also have a slightly hallucinatory feel about them.

Whilst these attractions are worth a visit, Vientiane lacks the truly monumental and instead captures the senses by its tranquility and idiosyncratic charm. It's a place to eat, people-watch, relax, get a massage, maybe visit one of the respectable night-clubs. Vientiane lacks vibrancy but, for so many visitors with enough energy expenditure in their everyday lives, this is just what the doctor ordered.

Simon Ramsden is resident in Ao Nang [http://www.andamanadventures.com/ao_nang.shtml], Thailand and runsThailand climbing trips to Koh Lao Liang, Koh Yao Noi, Koh Phi Phi and Railay/Tonsai.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Ramsden

Lao Airlines Vientiane - Luang Prabang QV635 ATR72-200 RDPL-34137


airlines to laos

Lao Flights

lao flights_5="lao flights"

Special Attractions for All Those Taking Flights to Shenyang

Located in the northeast China it must be noted that the destination serves as the largest city apart from being the capital of Liaoning province. Being the economic, political and administrative hub of the region the place has gained immense popularity and reputation in the recent years. This has led to the emergence of tourism industry thereby attracting innumerable visitors taking flights to Shenyang from across the globe to this part of the globe with utmost interest and enthusiasm to explore the region. The place has something charismatic about it. The culture and lifestyle of the place is truly magnificent and it has made this place what it is today. Here we are going to discuss the life and culture of this beautiful place in a summarized manner.

Places to See

The destination has many places which are of immense interest. These are some of the most interesting places of sightseeing which must be explored by all taking Shenyang flights. Each of them has something interesting yet different to offer, thus surprising the visitor and making him or her happy and content. Some of such places never to be missed by any of the tourists are Shenyang Imperial Palace, Fuling Tomb, Botanical garden, Meteorite mountain Park and Wulihe Park. These are such fabulous places to visit that I have never witnessed in all my tourism exploits so far. One place which is a favorite among these is Meteorite mountain Park. It is certainly the best place for all those who love every slice of adventure profoundly. The sightseeing provided by this city is undoubtedly the best.

Local Culinary Taste and Restaurants

A blend of culture is seen here because of the different successions by which the region has gone through. This impact of multiple cultures is reflected in the taste of the residents of the place. Their local food has greatly been influenced by this. Some of the most common and lip smacking food one can find here are dumplings, cold noodles, kimchi and laoshanji to name just a few. There are many small and big outlets to munch on your favorite platter of food. Some of the good restaurants and eating places are Lao Bian Dumpling, Ma's steamed dumplings, Zhong Jie. The quality is quite good at these places at and the best part is that all these restaurants are quite affordable. All taking flights to Shenyang will surely get delighted by these sumptuous offerings.

Shopping for the Shopaholics

The destination is a sublime mix of splendid attractions and shopping markets that gives an opportunity to the visitors to shop till their hearts content at affordable prices. There are many markets that one can check out. A beautiful range of goods are sold here which can surely be considered for buying. Some of the market places that one must visit are Wu Ai Market, Shenyang antique market, flea market. These are really the best places to get you indulged in shopping. It is to be kept in mind that all the visitors planning to shop here must book their tickets early to get cheap flights to Shenyang.  

 

About the Author

Pramod Negi is an independent Travel Agent consultant who advises and counsels Cheap Flights to Shenyan,how to book flights, last minute flights, airline tickets, air fare deals and direct flights deals and offers information for your travel how to find Shenyang Flights etc.

"Day 16 - Luang Prabang" Al_fey's photos around Luang Prabang, Lao Peoples Dem Rep (travel pics)


lao flights
lao flights
lao flights

Flight Laos

flight laos_2="flight laos"
Tips on being comfortable on a long flight with multi-stops (economy seat)?

LAX--Taipei--Bangkok--Laos. Any DO's and DON'Ts??

Definitely staying hydrated is important. I have flown from LAX to TPE. It is a long flight so bring a book to read. Also the airline should be showing a movie so you can at least watch different movies or listen to music.

The airlines stress getting up and walking around to prevent deep vein thrombosis. In the in-flight magazines, they have some exercises you can do to help circulation.

The airlines will periodically serve you beverages such as juice or water. Do accept the beverage every time it is offered. They may also give you a moist towel to wipe your face since the air sometimes is dry in the cabin.

Enjoy your flight. If you can sleep, try to get some rest. You can try to ask for an emergency exit row since you get more legroom but those seats are usually reserved for those who fly a lot with the airline. You can still ask anyway.

Laos - Luang Prabang - Flight


flight laos
flight laos
flight laos

Laos Airline

laos airline_3="laos airline"
what is the cheapest way to get to laos from brisbane? cheapest airlines...?

i am thinking of going to laos in december or january. what is the cheapest way to get to laos from brisbane? i don't mind if it isn't direct. cheapest airlines...? Thanks :)

you are going to need to work with an agent on this one; the most practical approaches from Brisbane are either from Bangkok or Kunming, China.There are no simple ways to do this....
try flight centre (07) 3229 0150 or
sta travel (07) 3229 6066

Lao Airlines Landing at Vientiane Wattay Int'l Airport, Laos.wmv


laos airline

Lao Flights

lao flights_2="lao flights"
Hi, I'm going to Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and am having trouble with flights?

Is it possible to fly from Luang Prabang to Ho Chih Minh City; so far I can only find flights from LP to Siem Reap with Lao Airlines (are they safe?). Ideally we want to fly to HCMC and then travel up to Siem Reap. Any ideas greatly appreciated. Any other routes also really appreciated. Thank you!!

You may fly Luang Prabhang to Hanoi Vietnam or Siem Reap. Both sectors you may either on Lao Aviation Or Vietnam Airlines. Lao Aviation use Fokker 70 while Vietnam use ATR 72. I would choose ATR72 Vietnam Airlines.

"The Pleasures of rural southern Laos" Jenandjeffmilum's photos around Pakse, Lao Peoples Dem Rep


lao flights

Flights Laos

flights laos="flights laos"

China Focus Travel- Palace You Must See

China Tours now has a spread fans all over the world, tourists seemingly have been fascinated by the mysterious country. However, if you want to have a better china travel, you need to facility yourselves the travel information, and in the following passage I will share some experience with you and I hope it will do you a favor.

Ancient City Tour

China has thousands of years history and many famous ancient cities are well known by the travel fans. Such as Beijing, Nanjing, Xi'an, and the like. And here I will take Xi'an for example and introduce you the fantastic sites for you.

Xi'an is located in the northwest of China, and as the capital of Shangxi Province, it has attracted many visitors both domestic and abroad.

One of the most attractive spots is the Terracotta Warriors and Horses. This magnificent project, which was built more than several thousands years ago, is located about 40 km east of Xi'an. The army of more than 6,000 life size terracotta warriors, with horses and chariots lined up facing east and ready for battle, is one of the world's most remarkable archaeological finds. Another fabulous attraction is the 7 story Great Wild Goose Pagoda. It was built in 652AD; and as a striking elegant building and the symbol of Xian, the Goose Pagoda has many travel fans.

Sea view

China faces the East Sea, standing in the east of Asia. As a result, the sea view is worth to have a visit. Qingdao, the capital of Shandong Province, is located in the east of China. It is a beautiful city with blue sky, fresh air, cool breeze, beach, sea food, waves, and wonderful things beyond your imagination. As I have mentioned, Seafood should not be missed in Qingdao. Qingdao seafood has unique flavors, fresh and light, popular with tourists. The top-end hotels such as Shangri-La Hotel and Qingdao Hotel, and the Yiqinglou Restaurant serve dainty seafood. What's more, you can have adventurous travel in Qingdao, such as surfing the waves, climbing the mountains. The most famous mountain here is Lao Mountain. Different from many famous mountains in China, it rises from the sea level, and has a coast line of 87 kilometers, structuring a wonder on the sea. The main peak, named Large Peak or Peak Lao, is over 1100 meters high above sea level. Take a walk around, with the sea on one side, and lofty stones and precipitous peaks on the other side, both majestic and elegant.

Natural scene

China has vast territory and abundant resources, so if you have a trip you will have a broad look of different views. Now, the natural scene I will introduce is Guilin, in Guangxi Province, it is the capital of Guangxi, which located in the south of China. Guilin is the typical landscape of the south area in China. The famous attractions is Li River, which surrounding the mountains. When the sunlight sparks on the river, it looks like a liquid jade belt. A cruise along the Li River between Guilin and Yangshuo is an unforgettable experience. As you take in the stunning scenery there's something interesting to see at almost every bend in the river. Between spectacular limestone peaks you'll see graceful bamboo groves, farmers tending rice paddies, and lumbering water buffaloes pulling carts or cooling off in the river. You may see fishermen gliding along on their narrow bamboo rafts, and if you're very lucky you might see one of the famous fishing cormorants. Boats depart from various wharves, according to the height of the river at different times of the year.

China will give you more surprise than you can imagine, so why not take a China Flights and have a try?

 

About the Author


"Leaving Laos" Nickjwatson's photos around Pakse, Lao Peoples Dem Rep


flights laos

Laos Tickets

laos tickets="laos tickets"
My travel dillemma?

I'm from Melbourne and I have a flight booked for Bangkok on the 24th of January to travel in Thailand, Cambodia and Laos for 1 month. The only problem is that my fiancee can no longer come as he just recived a role as an extra for Speilberg's Pacific War (which means the world to him as he wants to become an actor).
There is no way that we can change the name on the ticket and due to my uni semester this is the only time I can go.
Now it looks like I have to go alone, I'm 20 yo and have never left Australia.
What should I do. I'm sort of scared obviously, as it's a foreign country and all I can say is sa wad dii!
Any tips or suggestions on escaping complete boredom and safety by myself would be great!

Two things:
1) You have a problem. The airlines won't change names, but re-issue the entire ticket in the new name. You will then have to apply for a refund for the cancelled ticket. There will probably be a charge.
2) Thailand is great for travelling. There are many backpackers and people your age bumming around the place. It is very friendly (but always be cautious). There will not be an issue going by yourself but it is always a lot more fun to experience it with someone else. Get the costs together and market it to your friends and family. There is always someone who wants to go!

Tickets for the Opening/Closing Ceremony of the 25th SEA Games Laos


laos tickets

Cheap Flights Laos

cheap flights laos="cheap flights laos"

Thinking of South Asia Tour

Thailand is a South Asian country which is the heart of Asia when the aspect of tourism is concerned. For any one who visits this region, is bound to book flights to Bangkok as well because if you are in a true need of seeing heaven on earth full of angels and heavenly smiles, with some natural amenities to be viewed; Bangkok is some thing which offers every thing to you. Lovely places, modern cosmopolitan, a true tourist's destination – cheap flights to Bangkok are plenty. Pertinent to this trait, it is known as the ‘land of smiles' and the ‘land of angels'.

 

In general, traveling to South East Asia is really soothing and highly recommended for budget travelers. And several travelers are seen to take flights to misc. countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, etc each year. However seeking cheap flights to Bangkok is something which the travelers yearn for, through out the year and no doubt despite of the fact that cheap flights to Bangkok are plenty, they are heavily booked. Being the country's capital, Bangkok has endless traits of tourism to offer. From the array of ancient culture, to trendy signs of the modern culture – cheap flights to Bangkok give you enthralling ventures of tourism which are highly awaited and their aura is well realized by the tourists from all over the world visiting Bangkok. A venture which no one misses here is to travel on the guided boats. This fun and pleasurable venture is to sit in a boat experiencing the real Bangkok life style sailing through the zigzag canals of the city and in the way you get to observe the floating markets amidst, the homes of the past residents, water falls, flower arrangements, and the special golden temples of Bangkok.

 

Another venture which the travelers booking Bangkok flights is the shopping in Bangkok. From the historical perspective to modern exclusive brands – every thing is found here. No matter you name any thing from the 18th century and from the small China Town streets, you will find here. Coming to any thing of daily use, you get here at remarkably low price. Name any brand, you get bulk of the stuff in the big malls.

About the Author

Flights to Bangkok has open a new world to me I have seen such an amazing wonderful flights to Bangkok golden collections of the relish able place that enrich my nature to be never lost.

Laos Luang Prabang Killer Video


cheap flights laos
cheap flights laos
cheap flights laos

Laos Aviation

laos aviation="laos aviation"

How to Get to the Temples of Angkor Wat-cambodia

For many the first sighting of the majestic Angkor temples was through the Lara Croft:  Tomb Raider movie with Angelina Jolie. Who could forget the sight of the giant trees with massive root structures engulfing the roofs and walls of the Ta Phrom temple?

The Ta Phrom temple is but one temple in the Angkor Park, with the most well known and photographed being Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom. The Angkor temple complex is a World Heritage site noted not only for its architecture but its massive carved reliefs which are works of art in their own right.

Angkor Wat is situated in the North Western area of Cambodia in Siem Reap City.  The easiest and quickest route there is by air landing at the Siem Reap International Airport.  The airport which is Cambodia’s second largest is located 7 kilometres from the city centre.

The Siem Reap International Airport is serviced by over twenty different airlines.  Some of these airlines include Air Asia, Asiana Air, Singapore Airlines, Jetstar Asia Airlines, Korean Air, Malaysia Airlines, Royal Khmer Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Lao Aviation, Siem Reap Airways, Silk air, Dragon Air, Bangkok Air (Asia’s Best Regional Airline 2008), Angkor Airways and China Yunnan Airlines. 

The above-mentioned airlines, many of which are international carriers offer incoming and outgoing flights to a number of South East Asian cities.  These cities include Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Vientiane, Taipei, Incheon and Canton.  A bonus for travellers is that they may get an aerial glimpse of Angkor Wat on their flights into or out of the Airport.

Besides direct flights travellers can be redirected from Cambodia’s Capital City Airport, The Phnom Penh International Airport. This is a short forty five minute flight from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap. In comparison the bus trip over the sealed highway or the boat trip up the Tonie Sap Lake would take five to six hours.

For the more adventurous, there is an overland route from Bangkok, Thailand via the border at Poi Pet. Travellers face a nine to ten hour bus trip to their Angkor destination albeit at a far cheaper price. Once in Siem Reap the treasures of the Angkor temples await them.

About the Author

Mike Ibbertson is a traveller through South East Asia and with his website http://thecambodianadventure.com you can get useful information on what to do and how much it will cost pn your adventure through Cambodia

Lao Airlines Xian MA60 landing @ Pakxe


laos aviation

Laos Airfare

laos airfare="laos airfare"
Excluding the peace corps, list some programs where I can travel abroad for free and volunteer.?

While I am able to find several programs that include room & board, I am unable to find a program that INCLUDES the cost of airfare.

Could anybody suggest programs that include ALL expenses, especially airfare. I am interested in travelling to Africa or Asia, particularly to Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, India, or Thailand.

Thank you!

VSO, maybe. I think you have to pay your way there but they will pay for your return flight. They give you a living allowance.

Laos Paradise Travel Commercial (Lowfare to anywhere in World wide)


laos airfare

Flight Laos

flight laos="flight laos"

Luangprabang Flight Of The Nature Zipline Adventure LAO PDR


flight laos

Airfare To Laos

airfare to laos="airfare to laos"

Phu quoc diving

Itinerary in brief

Day 1: Saigon - Phuquoc Island
Day 2: Phuquoc Island Diving
Day 3: Phuquoc Beach
Day 4: Phuquoc Island Diving
Day 5: Departure

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Saigon - Phuquoc Island
Flight 10:10 am to Phquoc arrival at 12:10 am. Pick up and transfer to Saigon Phuquoc resort. At leisure overnight at hotel on Phu Quoc island.

Day 2: Phuquoc Island Diving (B,L)
Embark on a boat trip to dive site and reef sites. After the warm-up and instructions, start to take 2 dives with lunch in between. Further swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing in the afternoon before boating back to your hotel.

Day 3: Phuquoc Beach(B)
Leisure day to enjoy prime beach of Phuquoc

Day 4: Phuquoc Island Diving (B,L)
Embark on a boat trip to dive site and coral reef sites. After the warm-up and instructions, start to take 2 dives with lunch in between. Further swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing in the afternoon before boating back to your hotel.

Day 5: Departure (B)
At leisure till 12:00 pm to take a transfer to airport for the flight back Saigon. The tour concludes.

INCLUDING
Accommodation on a twin share basic with daily breakfast
English speaking monitor Dive boat trip with full board meals
Dive and snorkel equipments
Admission fees , fruit and teas/drink on board
Round trip flight tickets Saigon - Phuquoc - Saigon
Round trip airport transfers

Excluding
*Airfares & airport taxes
*Pre/post trip arrangement
*Visa and visa arrangement
*Travel insurance
*Other personal expenses

Contact detail : sales@huongviettravel.com

View and booking this tour : At here

Please visit our site : http://huongviettravel.com | http://asentravelandtours.com

 

About Us: Huong Viet Travel has been established since 2002 at Hanoi Capital of Vietnam & known as one of the most outstanding travel agents not only in Vietnam but South East Asia. With a team of young, dynamic, much experienced personnel having a burning passion & thorough knowledge in the tourism, which allows Huong Viet Travel to bring all of you to any top-end services as requested. We did build up a wide range of representative offices in almost in Asian countries: Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand and China. At the time being, Huong Viet Travel is mainly emphasized on organizing all necessary services for Groups and FITs with tour of all kinds: Cultural tour, sightseeing tours, eco-tours, adventure tours, honeymoon tours, customized tours and MICEs with purposes of business. Besides that we are also able to offer some more extra services like hotel bookings, car transfers in segments, Visa to Vietnam, Visa extension & train & air-tickets throughout Vietnam & from Viet Nam to other countries in region. During 7 years in operation, we have been getting a lot of good comments as well as success in satisfying maximum all requirements from tourists & receiving the highest reputation from partners around the world. Together with our own experiences & confidences, Huong Viet Travel will totally commit to make your trips become memorable & unique with the highest satisfactions & our own successes today and tomorrow will be much depending on your own supports & estimation.

About the Author


Buy Tickets Airline


airfare to laos

Thailand Laos

thailand laos="thailand laos"
What natural boundary lies between thailand and laos?

The Mekong River lies between Thailand and Laos.

Lao Entertainment Awards 2010 - Thai E-News


thailand laos

Travel Laos

travel laos_3="travel laos"
How do I travel by road or train to Laos or Cambodia from Bangkok, Thailand?

No trains in Laos, and only one in Cambodia which does or does not run depending on who you ask. You can travel by train in Thailand to the borders but then it's bus from there.

See
http://www.seat61.com/Laos.htm for Laos
http://www.seat61.com/Cambodia.htm for Cambodia

Travel Laos Moungkhoua, Phongsaly (12-2010)


travel laos

Thailand And Laos

thailand and laos_4="thailand and laos"

Facts About Thailand For Those Who Dream Of Going There

Thailand is one of the most beautiful and culturally diverse areas in Southeast Asia. Because it was never colonized, it retains much of its original culture.


The people of Thailand are very friendly and hospitable. There is no language barrier because the staff speaks English and other European languages in most of the hotels, restaurants and tourist places. There are many different modes of transportation in Thailand. Tourists can hire a taxi, take a bus, ride on a train, rent a car or motorcycle or hike on foot through the beautiful countryside. The most interesting ride is the Tuk-Tuk, a three wheel bike, which provides a fantastic open air ride around any city.


Thailand means "the land of the free", and is blessed with three seasons. Summers runs from February to May. The rainy season extends from June to October. The cold season lasts from November to January. Many people vacation in Thailand during December and January to get away from the cold in their countries over Christmas and New Year's. Thailand has vacationers from all over the world.


Thailand has a very diverse geography. Tropical islands are found in the southern peninsula. There are many beautiful beaches surrounded by clear, blue waters on one side and tropical jungle on the other. The people here are involved in rubber cultivation, tin mining, and fishing. In the central part of Thailand are paddy fields, farms and many varieties of edible fruits. Here, too, are the ancient ruins of Ayuthaya, the royal capital of the kingdom of Siam, and Sukhothai. The mountains and forests of Thailand are in the north. Many different tribes are located in the mountains. Tourists can visit them from boats or by crossing the rail road lines over the famous river Kwai. They can also see unusual native handicrafts and multicolored orchids. The northeast plateau is famous for its rich archaeological and anthropological findings.


Thailand is the perfect vacation spot for those seeking a romantic getaway or who want to shop. Gourmets will love the many varieties of sea food. Many travelers also come here for an adventurous vacation. Thailand offers aquatic sports for all ages, including scuba diving, snorkeling, wind-surfing and water-skiing. Afterwards, tourists can relax on the beautiful beaches, sipping their favorite cool drink in good company.


Thailand offers something to every traveler:


Phuket is known for its exotic islands and beautiful beaches. Tourists can sunbathe on the beach, relax around a hotel pool or go on a number of popular excursions. Phuket's nightlife is very lively. The multi-cuisine restaurants and bars are always filled with tourists.


Chiang Mai is a combination of modern city life and old village charm. Tourists can visit a working elephant camp, the Mae Sa Waterfall and an Orchid Farm. There are temples which are close to 700 years old. The Doi Suthep monastery sits on the top of a mountain 3500 feet above sea level, overlooking the fertile valley embracing Chiang Mai. The monastery is famous for its many holy relics of the Lord Buddha. Chiang Mai's night bazaar is a favorite shopping place of tourists. Almost anything can be bought there at bargain prices.


In Chiang Rai, tourists can see the local hill tribe villages of the Akha and Yao. They can also see the ruins of Chiang Saen, Mae Sai and the Golden Triangle. The triangle is where the borders of Burma, Thailand and Laos meet. Together with Chiang Mai, the city sits in one of the artistic and religious centers in Thailand.


Bangkok is the capital of Thailand. The name means "city of angels." Bangkok is a centre of commercial, industrial and cultural activities. The Grand Palace; Wat Phra Keo, which houses the Emerald Buddha; and Dusit Maha Prasat Hall are three of Bangkok's largest attractions. Here tourists can see large, gleaming golden spires, soaring roofs, intricate paintings and ornate statues.

About the Author

More from this author at: mytravel-magazine.com

"The Colour Orange" Arewethere.yet's photos around Bangkok,Viernam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand


thailand and laos
thailand and laos
thailand and laos

Flight To Laos

flight to laos="flight to laos"
are there any DIRECT flights from da nang, viet nam to ANY city in laos?

No.

End of Luang Prabang - Vientiane flight * Laos 27 Dec 09


flight to laos

Lao Airlines

lao airlines_4="lao airlines"
I purchased tickets on Lao Airlines at their website. I got email on reservation but no e-ticket. is this ok

Lao Air email has reservation number and "confirmed". The email at bottom says, "You will be receiving an e-Ticket Itinerary within 72 hours once the e-ticket is issues". Anyway the confirming email is the only thing I have at this point and it has been several weeks.

You can call their customer hotline, I'm sure it's written somewhere on the E-mail or their website.

Arrival - Lao Airlines ATR72 Vientiane to Luang Prabang


lao airlines

Lao Airlines

lao airlines="lao airlines"

Borneo - the Wild Heart of Se Asian Adventure Travel

Borneo - The Wild Heart of SE Asian Adventure

Borneo is the third largest island in the world, located east of Singapore. The Borneo jungles are not only magnificently spectacular, but they are also relatively untouched. When one finds oneself amongst the many segregated worlds of lush vegetation that Borneo has to offer, one can only wonder … "How could an exotic land that offers so many species of wild life have escaped mass tourism?"

In the modern age, when tourism has a tendency to develop and then envelop any place of beauty, Borneo has so far escaped this fate. This is an extra benefit that heightens Borneo's natural and unspoiled charm and which will, we hope, continue to enhance Borneo's majestic splendour through the years. So remote is Borneo that one of its many superlatives, the world's largest and most overwhelming cave system, the Mulu, was only discovered by the West in the latter half of the twentieth century.

About the size of Texas, Borneo is the third largest island in the world. Most of it belongs to Indonesia, but the northern provinces of Sarawak and Sabah, former British colonies which are now part of Malaysia, draw most of Borneo’s visitors.

The primitive image of Borneo which we held in the last century is out of date. Malaysian Borneo is civilised; Kuching and Kota Kinabalu are modern, bustling little cities, plus the island has a reasonably effective tourist infrastructure. The blend of old and new in Borneo is nicely summed up by a sign in the Limbang airport that sternly prohibits the carrying of blowguns aboard aircraft.

Because of its great variety of attractions, Borneo trips tend to be smorgasbord-style affairs. You may be climbing 13,455-foot Mount Kinabalu one day (no technical skills required, but nevertheless a stiff hike) and sleeping in a longhouse with Iban tribesmen the next. Although headhunting is now outlawed, you may meet some folks who remember it—or may even have practised it in the ‘good’ old days. Jungle treks and cave explorations in Mulu National Park, visits to Sepilok orangutan sanctuary, white-water rafting trips and scuba diving along the 3,000-foot sea wall just off Sipadan Island are also popular Borneo diversions. Whatever you do, it’s virtually certain you’ll ride in a boat at some point—Borneo is so mountainous and densely forested that roads exist only along the coastline. In the interior, rivers are the only highways.

Practically speaking Borneo is not an easy place to see on your own. Attractions are widely scattered and require a variety of transportation. Many cool spots are reachable only by longboat or small aircraft, which require advance planning. On the major rivers such as the Baram and Rajang, however, there are fast, cheap express boat services (if you have the bottle to ride them). These incredibly sleek, speedy and claustrophobic craft look much like wingless jet airliners—the drivers even paint on fake cockpit windows to further the illusion—and have a terrible safety record. Local tour operators in the main towns of Kuching and Kota Kinabalu offer Kinabalu climbs and visits to Iban longhouses. The downside, of course, is that, almost by definition, any outing that’s easy to arrange on the spot is going to be more crowded with tourists.

Simple guesthouses in the larger towns go for $10-$20 a night, while Western-style hotels run in the $40-50 range. Jungle lodge prices are in the same range.

And don’t worry about the leeches. The pesky little critters usually manage to get through any protective clothing, but you won’t even notice that they’re sucking your blood because they first inject you with a local anaesthetic. It doesn’t hurt a bit, but it can be a bit of a jolt when you remove your shoes and find blood-soaked socks. But unless you’re seriously squeamish or a haemophobe, Borneo leeches are not that big a deal. Really.

Whilst in Thailand, why not visit one of the country’s currently best three beach destinations:

Koh Lao Liang: http://www.andamanadventures.com/kohlaoliang.shtml

Ao Nang: http://www.andamanadventures.com/ao_nang.shtml

Railay/Tonsai: http://www.andamanadventures.com/railay-tonsai.shtml

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About the Author

Runs Andaman Sky Co., Ltd, specialising in climbing and diving trips to Thailand’s best beach destinations.

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"Luang Prabang" Vera_und_alex's photos around Luang Prabang, Lao Peoples Dem Rep (travel pics)


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Thinking of going to Australia but first i want to go all around Asia i have 9000 Euro before flights?

Thinking of going to Australia but first i want to go all around Asia i have 9000 Euro before flights i want to to go to India cost 800 pound with BA first do 4 to 5 week there den fly to Singapore with Tiger airways cost 65 Euro and from there to Bangkok den Vietnam , Laos , Cambodia would 35 Euro do me a day + costs 35 a day for 3 mounts is 3150 Euro + 1000 Euro to India + 65 Euro to Singapore = 4210 which well give me 4800 Euro going to Australia were I well work for 6 mounts

Why not book a return flight to Australia via Singapore or BKK, that will lower your transport costs for a start, those flights should be less than £800. Also without out-bound travel booked you may be denied entry to Australia. It also prevents you from being stuck there without a means of returning to Europe.

You can easily book a return fare between Singapore and India, or you can concentrate on travelling within South East Asia, and then travel to India on your return from Australia.

Lao Airlines landing at Luang Prabang International Airport, Laos PDR.


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