OVERVIEW

Situated by the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane exudes a laidback charm quite unlike other capitals in Asia. To provide an all-encompassing insight into Vientiane and its rich history and culture, this half-day guided tour visits the city's elegant temples, unique monuments and French colonial buildings before ending with a leisurely stroll along the Mekong.

PROGRAM DETAILS

Note: this tour can be done in an air-conditioned car or van, or travel the eco-friendly way on a bicycle. The roads are flat and relatively quiet and traveling like the locals is a great way to see the city!

Note: Tour starts in the morning at 0900 or in the afternoon at 1400.

Enjoy a half-day guided tour to discover the hidden charms of Vientiane, whose name means 'the city of sandal wood'. Vientiane is one of the quietest capital cities in the world, far away from the bustle and hustle of other Asian capitals.

Your tour begins at the serene Wat Sisaket, the only temple left intact after the Siamese (Thai) invasion in 1828. It is one of the most beautiful temples in the capital, and its breezy teak covered hallways are filled with thousands of miniature Buddha statues.

Continue on to the nearby Wat Phra Keo. Used as a religious museum, Wat Phra Keo displays a collection of both Lao and Khmer works of art. Also nearby, is the Presidential Palace. Although you are not allowed to visit inside, it is a good glimpse in to the town's colonial past as this building formerly served as the French governor's palace. Stop at Wat Simuang, the most popular and venerated temple in Vientiane, as it is considered the guardian of the spirit of the city. Upon its grounds, you will find an Angkorian-era pillar and it is a popular belief that if you circle it three times and make a wish, then that wish will come true.

This afternoon, continue to the Patuxay monument, Laos' version of the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb the stairs to the roof for sweeping panoramic views of the city. Next, your tour takes you to That Luang, the holiest site in Laos.

Constructed by King Setthethirat in the 16^th century, the temple is resplendent as the sun is shines upon its towering golden spire.

End your tour of the capital along the banks of the Mekong River. Stroll along the river, stop to enjoy a cold drink, or sample a snack from one of the many local food stalls.

PRICING: in US Dollars per person

by Bike or by car (without options)
Rates are valid until 30 September 2012

Our Services Include:

• Transportation into a A/C vehicle or by bike accordingly to your choice
• 1 English speaking guide
• All entrance fees
• Camera and video cameras fees if applicable
• All permissions and local taxes

Our Services do not Include:

• Alcoholic drinks & drinks at mealtime + Optional visits + Personal expenses (Telephone, laundry...)
• Visa stamping fee for Laos (visa on arrival, valid 30 days: 30 to 42US$ upon client's nationality + 1 photo and a passport valid more than 6 month after return date). Subject to change without prior notice
• Extension visa 2 USD/day/Person. Subject to change without prior notice; Attention: Visa on arrival additional 1 USD/Person on Saturdays and Sundays
• Personal travel insurance (should include helicopter evacuation for Laos & repatriation)
• Personal expenses
• Tips for guide, driver, boat crew & hotels' porters
• Meals other than those mentioned above
• All air tickets with airport and departure taxes
• Other services not clearly indicated in the Package Inclusion above