http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/18/world/asia/18mekong.html?hp
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December 18, 2009
December 14, 2009
It’s all happening in Vientiane with one of the biggest events in Lao history taking place with the 25th SEA games.
Here’s some footage of a pink elephant doing the laamvong:
December 2, 2009
I recently returned to Vientiane for a 5 day holiday. I was pleasantly surprised to see that things aren’t too different. The main complaints I heard were the increased amount of traffic, especially from cars, and that everything is being devoted to the SEA games, which means a lot of other work is being neglected. Apparently most schools have closed (as of the end of October) until the start of 2010. One reason given was that the Lao kids need to concentrate on their training for the opening ceremony of the SEA games.
I was happy to see most of my favourite restaurants are still around. Mak Phet has undergone a major upgrade, moving to a new location. Menu prices seem pretty similar. Accommodation prices have increased, probably due to the SEA games. I found my guesthouse was twice as expensive as my last visit there 2 years ago.
If anybody out there is going to the SEA games please let me know how it goes.
One great phrase I’ve heard to describe Laos is “The place where safety goes to die”. That’s more a reference to the crazy swings in Vang Vieng river tubing that anything else. If you ever go there you’ll understand what I mean. Or you can watch the video below.
October 23, 2009
I’ve been doing some research into food in Vientiane. Why? Because I’ll be in Vientiane tomorrow! Pickle Deli write well about Vientiane, saying the food is better than Luang Prabang because there are lots of permanent repeat customer Falangs, rather than just tourists. I heartily agree. Vientiane’s food is fantastic. mmm-yoso has a good story about their time visiting various restaurants in Laos. Their recommendation for “Bounmala Restaurant” is highly recommended. It’s great for Lao food and is the kind of place locals would like to go to.
I’m hoping to closely document my food and travel escapades in Laos this time for stay tuned for new updates.
October 20, 2009
Checking out the Vientiane Times website, I saw an ad for a new cave open in Vang Vieng.
September 8, 2009
Vientiane now has a monthly “Monk Chat” program where foreigners can spend 2hrs speaking with Monks at a school near Nam Phu. It sounds like a great opportunity for both the Monks and foreigners. For the Monks, it’s a great chance for them to practice their English in a practical setting. For many Lao boys, becoming a Monk is the only way to get a formal education.
You can find out more about Monk Chat at their website.
July 29, 2009
July 24, 2009
Laos Travel Information is a very informative website. There’s quite a bit information about Laos and Vientiane, like stuff about working visas and housing costs. Check it out if you’re thinking of visiting Laos, or in particular, moving there.
July 21, 2009
Vientiane Living is a pretty cool website that reviews various restaurants and businesses around Vientiane. Good photos and a good summary of things around town if you’re visiting of new to the city.
July 13, 2009
I am watching the movie, Gone Baby Gone, and there’s a quote that mentions Laos:
You’re gonna wish you listened to me, ’cause your sh**ty pool hall crime syndicate headquarters is gonna get raided, and your doped-up bitches are gonna get sent back to Laos.
