Vientiane  – Once more like a sleepy village on the Mekong than a capital city, Vientiane retains a laidback charm bereft of most capital cities

Vientiane is a prefecture of Laos, in the northwest Laos. The national capital, Vientiane, is in the prefecture. The prefecture was created in 1989, when it was split off from Vientiane province. On a curve of the Mekong River, and bordering Thailand

Vientiane is noted as the home of the most significant national monuments in Laos – That Luang – which is a known symbol of Laos and an icon of Buddhism in Laos. Other significant Buddhist temples in Laos can be found there as well, such as Haw Phra Kaew, which formerly housed the Emerald Buddha.

March, April, May and June are very hot months with temperatures soaring to 35°C and above, so if you do find yourself in Laos at either end of the hot season, head north for slightly cooler climes. January and February are dry months with comfortable, warm temperatures.