Vientiane, Capital city on the Mekong River, Laos
Vientiane spreads as the capital along the Mekong with wide boulevards connecting French colonial villas, Buddhist temples and modern shopping centers. Government offices and administrative districts sit near the waterfront while residential neighborhoods and markets stretch inland from the river.
The settlement originated in the 13th century and became the capital of the Lan Xang kingdom in 1563 during a period of territorial expansion. French colonial rule between 1899 and 1953 shaped the urban layout with European architecture and street planning that remain visible today.
Monks in saffron robes walk through the streets at dawn to collect alms from local residents who kneel with offerings of rice and fruit. On weekends, families gather along the riverside promenade to share grilled snacks and listen to live music as the sun sets over the Mekong.
Wattay Airport sits about 4 kilometers west of downtown and connects with Thailand, Vietnam and neighboring countries through regular flights. The Friendship Bridge across the Mekong provides easy access to Thailand for travelers planning to visit multiple countries in the region.
The evening market along the riverfront transforms into a lively scene every night where local artisans spread handwoven textiles and traditional crafts on colorful tarps. Street vendors prepare grilled fish and sticky rice in mobile kitchens while visitors browse between stalls lit by hanging bulbs.
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