<\/span><\/h2>\nVientiane is the capital city of Laos and is nestled along the banks of the Mekong river. In fact, Vientiane used to be a French colony, which is evident in some of the remaining architecture and French signage. The capital is typical of many South-East Asian cities and is crowded, polluted and hectic. However, it does offer some moments of peace. The most notable of these is Pha That Luang, a Buddhist monument from the sixteenth century. The monument towers over the cityscape and is rumored to contain some remains of Buddha. Not only is the tower a great photo opportunity, but it also displays the importance of Buddhism in the region and shows Laotian culture at it\u2019s fullest. One of the mains draws about Laos and its capital is that luxury accommodation is extremely cheap and abundant, a point worth considering when deciding what to see in Laos. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/span>Luang Prabeng <\/span><\/span><\/h2>\nThis is the former capital of Laos and is often overlooked by travelers who decide to visit Vientiane instead. The city has perfectly encompassed both the modern and the traditional, as both co-exist side by side here. When deciding what to see in Laos, it is worth making the trip to Luang Prabeng for the Haw Kham, which is the former royal palace. It is also worth making the climb up Phou Si, the hill which overlooks the entire city, affording incredible views of the Laotian landscape. Lastly, a must see in Laos is Vat Xieng Toung, an incredible monastery which is one of the oldest in the world. <\/span><\/p>\nFor nature lovers, Luang Prabeng also has caves and waterfalls which are often used for swimming and watersports. The most famous is the Kuang Si waterfalls, although Tad Thong waterfall is also equally beautiful. The Buddha Caves are also worth a visit and offer a relaxing end to your time in Luang Prabeng. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
<\/span>Pakse, a town you must see in Laos<\/span><\/span><\/h2>\nPakse is rapidly expanding to draw visitors to view its many delights on offer. Again, much like Luang Prabeng, Pakse has some stunning waterfalls. Tad Fane is the most famous, as well as the biggest. It is possible to go swimming here, a welcome respite from the sometimes oppressive tropical heat. Pakse is also the perfect place to try traditional, home-cooked Laotian cuisine. The most famous of these is Sarad. This is generally used to describe vegetables, herbs and spices, combined together. These salads can also be ordered with or without meat. The people of Laos also rely heavily upon sticky rice, also common in Thailand. This is usually eaten by hand and in great amounts. Another dish worth trying is Lam, which is actually typical of Luang Prabeng, and consists of a stew made up of vegetables. The key ingredient is sa kaan, a type of vine which is grown through Laos. Of course, there are also plenty of opportunities to try street food from many of the stalls that make up the center of Pakse. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n