The friendly capital, studded with crumbling French mansions, bougainvillea­-blooming streets and steaming noodle stalls, is somewhere between a big town and a small city and it is definitely a multi-centre stop off consideration.

Its conveniently compact travellers’ enclave is based around Nam Phu, the Mekong riverside and Setthariat and Samsenthai streets. There are plenty of things to see in Vientiane, from Buddha Park to the Morning market and an impossibly rich selection of international cuisine – most pointedly French – you’ll find yourself slowly won over by the easy charms of this evolving backwater.

Amongst the things to see and do is the Cope Visitor centre, which offers a free exhibition with audio and visual presentations. This will shed some light on some perhaps unknown history of Laos that has been described as "heart rendering." If stunning landmarks are your thing, the Great Sacred Stupa (Pha That Luang) is a beautiful temple that commands attention in the Vientiane skyline. There are many other parks and relaxing locations with stunning backdrops here to complement your holiday. Vientiane may reveal its beauty less readily than its neighbor Luang Prabang, but spend a few days visiting its unusual sights, sampling its excellent food and enjoying a Beer Lao at sunset by the river, and you’ll soon feel at home here.

Whatever you decide to do, whether it's a single, twin or multi centre, we can help. Call us for free now on 01737 646416 for more ideas on what to see and do and to book your holiday to this fantastic location.