Tag: Laos

Food & Drink, Travel

Cafes with “Healing” Vibes Across Thailand & Laos

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As a food and coffee lover, travel without food hunting is no fun. Exploring Thailand and Laos offers a chance to discover spots that are perfect for unwinding and recharging. These cafes and eateries provide not just delicious food but also a calming atmosphere that soothes the soul.

Food Trucks at Samila Beach, Songkhla
I was surprised that there are many food trucks along Samila Beach in Songkhla that offer a unique and laid-back dining experience by the sea. Imagine savouring local snacks and refreshing drinks as you relax on the sandy shore, with the gentle sound of the waves in the background. Fret not, there are tables and chairs prepared, and you do not need to bring your own mat. The casual, beachside setting provides a tranquil escape, allowing you to soak in the healing energy of the ocean.

Kaogee Cafe, Vientiane (Kaogee Le Triomphe)
Kaogee Cafe in Vientiane, Laos, blends French influences with local charm, creating an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxation. The cafe’s interior design features elegant touches reminiscent of French cafes, while the menu offers a fusion of traditional Lao dishes and French-inspired delicacies. Whether you’re enjoying a buttery croissant or a rich coffee, the soothing ambiance and refined decor make Kaogee Cafe a wonderful place to unwind and experience a taste of French elegance in the heart of Laos.

📍Kaogee Le Triomphe
Patuxay, ຮ່ອມ 13, Vientiane, Laos
Operating hours: 7AM – 8PM
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/go6dCgSgqXuFEFx67
Website: https://kaogeecafe.com

Hak Khong Restaurant, Nong Khai
Located along the Mekong River in Nong Khai, Thailand, Hak Khong Restaurant is known for its dishes made with fresh fish sourced directly from the river. This riverside eatery is a haven for food lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike, with its picturesque setting offering plenty of photo-worthy spots. The combination of delicious, freshly prepared meals and stunning views makes Hak Khong Restaurant a perfect destination for those seeking both culinary delight and visual inspiration.

📍Hak Khong Restaurant
444, Sangkhom, Sangkhom District, Nong Khai 43160, Thailand
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/j1ng9foffP7uwbNg6

Barnnaa Cafe, Udon Thani
Barnnaa Cafe in Udon Thani is the ultimate spot to unwind and relax. The cafe offers a choice of cozy indoor seating or a breezy outdoor area, allowing you to enjoy the serene surroundings while sipping on a coffee or indulging in a sweet treat. The peaceful environment and beautiful decor create a haven where you can escape the hustle and bustle of travel and take a moment to recharge. Whether you choose to sit inside or outside, Barnnaa Cafe provides a tranquil retreat that’s perfect for relaxation.

📍Barnnaa Cafe
95 หมู่ที่ 1 Mu Mon, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani 41000, Thailand
Operating hours: 9AM – 5:30PM
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6dPoDPRX3wKZfrje9
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barnnaacafe

These spots across Thailand and Laos offer more than just food and drinks—they provide calming environments where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy a moment of peace amidst your travels. Who’s ready for a “healing” trip back to these eateries with me?

Travel

Explore Patuxai Victory Monument in Vientiane, A Spot for History, Culture, and Panoramic Views

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The Victory Monument, also known as Patuxai (also spelt as Patuxay), is an iconic landmark in Vientiane, Laos. This monument, resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, was constructed between 1957 and 1968 to honor those who fought for independence from France. However, its unique design incorporates Laotian architectural elements, including intricate reliefs depicting mythological creatures and scenes from local legends. At 180 feet (55 meters) high, Patuxai stands taller than the original Arc de Triomphe, making it one of the tallest buildings in Vientiane. Interesting isn’t it?

Patuxai is located at the end of Lang Xang Avenue in the heart of Vientiane. The Prime Minister’s Office, which houses various administrative offices, is located in front of Patuxai. Its central location makes it easily accessible, whether you’re exploring the city on foot or by vehicle.

Why Should You Visit?
Visiting Patuxai offers a glimpse into Laos’ history and a chance to appreciate the blend of French colonial and Laotian architectural styles. Climbing 7 floors to the top rewards you with panoramic views of Vientiane, making it a popular spot for photography. The surrounding gardens and fountains create a serene atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

I am amazed with the carvings and drawing on the walls of Patuxai, that reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Laos. Among these are depictions of mythological creatures like the Kinnari and Nagas, symbolizing beauty, grace, and protection. Buddhist imagery is also prominent, with detailed scenes from the life of Buddha, highlighting the significance of Buddhism in Laotian culture. Traditional floral motifs and geometric patterns are intricately carved, representing the harmony between nature and spirituality. Additionally, the monument features reliefs of Laotian warriors, honouring the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought for the nation’s independence.

When you’re up on the top level, expect a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking views. It provides a 360-degree view of the city, where you can see Vientiane’s skyline, the Mekong River, and nearby temples. It’s best to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the best light for photography.

Entrance fee
The entrance fee is 5,000 kip for locals and 30,000 kip for foreign tourists. This fee allows you to ascend to the top of the monument, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Travel

4 Temples in Vientiane, Laos You Should Check Out

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During my visit to Vientiane, Laos, I had the chance to explore some of its most iconic temples. Each one left a lasting impression with its unique history, architecture, and cultural significance. Here are my thoughts on Phra That Luang, Ho Phra Keo, Wat Si Saket, and Wat Chao Mae Si Muang.

Phra That Luang
Phra That Luang, the Great Stupa in Vientiane, is Laos’ most iconic religious monument and a symbol of national pride. Standing 45 meters tall, this golden stupa represents Buddhist teachings and is believed to house a relic of the Buddha. Originally a Hindu temple, it was transformed into its current form in 1566 by King Setthathirath. Phra That Luang is the centerpiece of the annual Boun That Luang festival in November, attracting thousands of pilgrims. The stupa’s three levels symbolize the path to enlightenment, making it a must-visit for those exploring Laos’ rich cultural heritage.

📍That Luang, Xaysettha 10009, Laos
Operating hours: 8am – 5pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 30,000 Kip (foreign tourist), 5,000 Kip (local)

Ho Phra Keo
Ho Phra Keo, built in 1565 by King Setthathirath, originally housed the revered Emerald Buddha before it was taken to Thailand in 1779. Located in Vientiane, this temple, also known as the “Altar of the Emerald Buddha,” is a significant cultural site in Laos. The current structure, restored in 1936, features classic Lao architecture with intricate carvings and a multi-tiered roof. Now a museum, Ho Phra Keo displays religious artifacts, including ancient Buddhist scriptures and bronze statues, offering insight into Laos’ rich history. Its serene gardens enhance the temple’s tranquil and reflective atmosphere.

📍Rue Setthathirath, Vientiane 0100 Laos
Operating hours: 8am – 5pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 30,000 Kip (foreign tourist), 5,000 Kip (local)

Wat Si Saket
Located just across Ho Phra Keo, Wat Si Saket, built in 1818 by King Anouvong, is Vientiane’s oldest surviving temple. Its unique Siamese-style architecture, rare in Laos, helped it endure the Siamese-Lao wars. The temple is renowned for its cloister walls, housing over 6,800 Buddha images of various sizes. Inside, frescoes depict the Jataka tales, which are stories of the Buddha’s past lives, illustrating moral lessons and the path to enlightenment. Wat Si Saket also features a central sim surrounded by a gallery of pillars. This historic temple remains an active site of worship and meditation, deeply rooted in Lao culture and Buddhism.

📍Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, Vientiane 0100 Laos
Operating hours: 8am – 5pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 30,000 Kip (foreign tourist), 5,000 Kip (local)

Wat Chao Mae Si Muang
Wat Chao Mae Si Muang, a key temple in Vientiane, Laos, is dedicated to Chao Mae Si Muang, a guardian spirit believed to protect the city. According to legend, she sacrificed her life to God while she was pregnant during the construction of the city pillar (Lak Mueang) to ensure its stability. Built in the 16th century and restored in the 1950s, the temple is a vibrant place for locals to make offerings and seek blessings. The city pillar housed within the temple is central to many ceremonies. The temple is especially lively during festivals, showcasing traditional Lao art and cultural practices, making it a significant spiritual and cultural site.

📍15 Rue Bourichane, Vientiane, Laos
Operating hours: 6am – 7pm (daily)
Entrance fee: FREE

Travel

Mường Thanh Luxury Vientiane Review: 5-star Hotel in Vientiane with Convenient Location and Excellent Facilities

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Prime Location in the Heart of Vientiane
During my recent trip to Laos, I had the opportunity to stay at Mường Thanh Luxury Vientiane, a 5-star hotel in Vientiane. It was my first time crossing borders from Nong Khai Thailand to Vientiane Laos via the First Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. In Vientiane, I had the opportunity to stay in its 5-star hotel which I would recommend staying called Mường Thanh Luxury Vientiane. I was genuinely impressed by the experience and would highly recommend it to you. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Vientiane, with easy access to all the major sights and just a 30-45 minute drive from the Nong Khai customs boundary. It was incredibly convenient, especially after a long journey from Udon Thani.

Extensive Hotel Facilities
The facilities at the hotel are extensive as well. If you have the time, I suggest spending a good amount of it relaxing by the swimming pool on the 5th floor, which offers a serene escape with stunning views. The gym is well-equipped, perfect for those who wish to maintain their fitness routine even while traveling. The restaurant offers a fantastic mix of local and international dishes, while the bar on the 25th floor provides a beautiful view of the city. Only if I have the time, I would enjoy a pampering session at its spa on the 4th floor.

Luxurious and Well-Equipped Rooms
What really stood out was the comfort and spaciousness of the rooms. Each room is elegantly designed and well-equipped with modern amenities, including comfortable beds, a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. The bathrooms are equally impressive, featuring luxurious toiletries, and a rain shower—making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. It would be great if there’s a bathtub.

Overall, my stay at Mường Thanh Luxury Vientiane was unexpectedly good, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a blend of convenience, comfort, and a touch of luxury in Vientiane, regardless for business or leisure.

📍Mường Thanh Luxury Vientiane
Bourichane Road, Phonsinouan Village, Sisattanak District, Ban Phon Kheng 00856, Laos
Website: https://luxuryvientiane.muongthanh.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muongthanh.vientiane
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fan.muongthanh