1.The Cuisine
2. The Friendly People
I've never been to a place where people went out of their way to help so much. I never felt like a cash, cow, as if I was being sold a story, or treated like a tourist. The people I met were eager to know about me, to share their stories and in this mans case, to propose to me. In the end, we decided it was probably best if I we didn't marry, but he tried to sneak a cheeky kiss or two (while he was driving the bus).
3. Buddha Park
Known as Xieng Khuan, it is a Buddhist sculpture park just 25 km east of Vientiane. Not only is the work stunning, the history rich, and the set up impressive, it's damn good fun to run around/climb on the statues (which by the way you are allowed to do). The neatest thing about this park is that it was actually created by a shaman who wanted to integrate both Buddhism and Hinduism. The artist incorporated demons, Gods, angels and various animals to create one of the most impressive parks I have ever seen.
4. Laosgrias
Never heard of them? Slap yourself! Or really just get there and try one! Laosgria is a Laotian take on Sangria and is spectacularly delicious. It is a Laos rum drink, filled with tons or fruit and delicious goodness. Every time I asked for the recipe, the bartender simply smiled and said it is filled with "all things good." Perhaps this is the reason we ordered 3 pitchers of it our first night in Vientiane. Magic and an easy hangover the next day.
and more.....
and even more....did I mention how good they were?
5.The French Influence
It sounds strange when discussing Asia, but the French influence on the culture, architecture and food is simply remarkable. For one thing, the baked goods that I ate in Laos were comparable, if not better than much of the bakery I had in Paris (and at a much better price). In the French quarter you can find rows of colonial style edifices. Even the refurbished building have managed to maintain some of the old architecture, mixed with an Southeast Asian style that is really something to behold.
6.The Chillest Nightlife You'll Ever Experience
Laos is not one big rager, and although it is quiet, it is undeniably wonderful for a drink. Particularly, along the Mekong river at sunset, tasting one of the best beers in Asia, (hands down) Beer Lao. Well many bars close early (around 11:30- midnight or so) there are plenty of quality spots along the river to sit, have a drink, play some music and just enjoy your surroundings. Angelique and I managed to meet up with some crazy awesome Italians who invited us to a French Rock Concert and a Masquerade Ball and needless to say all of the people we met were amazing. Laos seems to draw a different type of traveler and it was the experience of a life time.
And an honorable mention.......
Laos Whisky
Not because it is good, or even remotely close to being palatable, but because you can call yourself a survivor when you have finished and be thoroughly justified in that title. It is not for the faint of heart....or week of stomach.
