House of travel Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Myanmar Brochure 2017 | Page 49

Located on a wide bend of the Mekong River, this quaint and easy going capital city offers a range of accommodation, restaurants and cafes with French style architecture, a contrast to the old Buddhist temples dotted around. Due to the city’s size, navigating the streets is easily done either on foot, by bicycle or by tuk tuk with the replica Arc de Triomphe (Patuxai) dominating the city centre. High on your list of sights to see should be That Luang Stupa, which is a symbol of Lao and an icon of Buddhism in Laos. The beautiful Wat Sisaket is a must and is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. Spend a morning exploring the Lao National Museum which displays an interesting mixture of revolutionary and contemporary exhibitions. Travelling slightly further a far, popular day trips include Xieng Khuang or ‘Buddha Park’, and Vang Vieng, set amid spectacular scenery providing a natural wonderland for the adventurous. Chanthapanya Hotel Lao Orchid Hotel From $ 82 Ansara Hotel From $ 87 Well located, this hotel is within a few minutes’ walk from the banks of the Mekong River including the night markets and nearby restaurants. Tuk tuks are also readily available for the longer explorations. Guest rooms have been tastefully decorated with natural materials, muted colours, woven rattan headboards, earthy-toned décor and all offer complimentary WiFi. Friendly staff compliment the hotel and are always on hand to help. This hotel makes for a comfortable stay. Exuding traditional charm with exquisite carved timber furniture upon entering the lobby, this hotel offers a homely retreat. Centrally located, the Mekong River and the morning market are just a short stroll away. Guest rooms offer comfort and incorporate wooden Lao-style furniture. Make use of the complimentary WiFi as you relax pool side or whilst enjoying a meal of either customary Lao, Asian and Western cuisine. This is a pleasant and welcoming hotel. Settha Palace Hotel Green Park Boutique Hotel From $ 226 In the heart of Vientiane stands this French colonial hotel set amongst landscaped gardens surrounding a lush swimming pool. Offering comfort and complimentary WiFi, guest rooms have either garden or pool views. Take in the charming ambience at La Belle Epoque Bar with its eclectic mix of soft tunes then proceed to La Belle Epoque Restaurant to explore the interesting flavours on the Lao menu or select courses from the classic French menu. *All prices are per person, twin share, based on low season including breakfast From $ 143 This serene hotel is located right in the centre of this historic capital and offers effortless access to Vientiane’s most popular sights and attractions along with being just a short stroll away from the legendary Mekong River. Elegant yet relaxed, the hotel exudes warmth and an inviting feel of a private home with quiet sophistication. Decor is a blend of traditional Lao and Asian contemporary designs with striking black and white photographs depicting Laos’ fascinating culture and sceneries. From $ 145 Offering a classic feeling of stepping back in time to an era of elegant tradition, this hotel abounds in the form of original antique furniture, rich art collections and exclusive nationally renowned beauty. Offering a daily complimentary shuttle bus service to downtown, explore the city at your own pace. After a day of exploring, relax and enjoy the swimming pool or head to Champa Lao Spa offering unique treatments to create a restorative experience. Dok Dalar Lounge captures the ambience of Lao contemporary design and is the ideal spot to unwind whilst sipping on an exotic cocktail. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, warm hospitality and flavours at Sala Nongchah Restaurant in an indoor and open air terrace setting. Retreat for the night to a well-furnished guest room with either garden or pool views. 49 Vientiane