Communism vs. Monarchy
by DSwede
Vientiane is the capital of modern Laos. With that, it is the focal point of the Communist party. If you read my general tip on my main Laos page, you will note my opinion on the juxtaposition between this city and Luang Prabang to the north. Vientiane is still the iconic communist party headquarters and propagates the anti-imperialist sentiment against its foes (at least in the Museum that is). Luang Prabang on the other hand endorses its mixed French past and highlights the forgotten monarchy.
Sorry, no photos to support this since cameras are not allowed in most of the museums.
Malaysian Embassy
by yeikloen
Thought of dropping by to say, Selamat Petang but there was no one at the security booth and thought they might have all gone for lunch....!!!!!
For Malaysian in KL, does this building looks like one of those 60s/70s bungalows around U-thant...????
Private Stupa
by muddybok
I learned that it has been fashionable to keep ashes in some of these stupas for those who are rich.
It doesn't just apply to the big Buddha or monks. Anyone can afford one, can own one and be placed in one of those wats.
That reminded me of some loan sharks live near my old house owning great looking houses & sport cars. Only people who are earning an honest living like me will drive an old junk and renting a simple apartment.
Natural medicines
by Willettsworld
These two women were selling natural medicines in the form of roots, fungi and some other strange items on the street near the Talat Sao Mall. Even though modern medicines are widely available in the city, there must still be a demand for the more traditional forms.
Toilet break..
by yuet29
I put this tips under local custom.. hmm because not sure where else should I put it.
If you are taking bus from Vientiane to Vang Vieng or Luang Prabang, the hours taken on the bus is long, and the road is constructing through mountains.. I guess, because I only see mountains around.. and there is no toilet nreak available.
The bus driver will stop at the corner or the road.. (all in a sudden) and shout: toilet toilet!! Then most of the local will rush down the bus, look for a scenic location to solve their problem.. for foreign guy, they will usually hesitate at the beginning, then follow.. for foreign girl.. well from my observation, most of them stay in the bus and pray that the bus will reach the destination soon...
The best solution I can think of is drink little water. From my few years experience travelling between Singapore and Penang in bus for 10 hours, I can skip all the toilet breaks provided that dont drink before the journey. Keke..
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all the quietness without traffic
Patuxai
Patuxai.
A view from inside the Istanbul Restaurant
