OVERVIEW

Explore Laos' capital city by bike or car to discover the hidden charms of this quiet city. Visit magnificent ancient temples, stop at the unique Patuxai Monument, and travel out to the gold-covered stupa of That Luang. Feast on fresh Lao cuisine at a charity restaurant and learn about the locally grown coffee at a tasting session. End your day with a stroll along the Mekong River as the sun begins to set.

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!

Today enjoy a 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 guide will pick you up at 0900 this morning. 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.

Nestled near the morning market is That Dam. Also called the "Black Stupa", the structure was once covered with a layer of gold which was stolen by the Thais during their invasion in 1828. From here, travel on to nearby Pangkham Street, with its plethora of tailor shops, and Nam Phou Fountain. Around the fountain are some remaining buildings from former Vientiane.

OPTION: Enjoy an afternoon sampling locally made organic products from Laos. 

Xao Ban started as a small enterprise aimed at substituting imported food products and creating employment opportunities for local people. They produce homemade dairy products, processed fruits and vegetables.

Enjoy a tasting session trying:

Organic Honey, Tapenade, Organic Goats Cheese, Pumpkin and Cheese Spread, Yoghurt, Jams, Pesto, Fresh Fruit Juice and Coffee.

Those interested in learning more about Xao Ban can visit the centre and see how the products are made. Rate 17 - 25 US$ per person

PRICING: in US Dollars per person

Rates are valid from October 2011 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
• Personal travel insurance
• Tips for guide, driver, boat crew & hotels' porters
• Meals other than those mentioned above
• Other services not clearly indicated in the Package Inclusion above