About this experience
On my tour, you will become a true explorer of Lao culture and a participant in an expedition through its capital city. We will uncover the doors of the Buddhist temples Pha That Luang, Sisaket, That Dam, and That Luang Neua, explore the best silk goods at the Morning Market, walk through the cultural sites of Vientiane, delve into the history of the country and the traditions of the locals, participate in ritual ceremonies, and discover the true Lao values.
What to Expect
Feel the pulse of Vientiane
We will stroll through the main, albeit not the most obvious, attractions of Vientiane. In each of these places, you will learn and experience what Laos is all about and get acquainted with its main symbols.
- First, we will visit Sisaket - the most visited temple in the city, where Vientiane originated. You will admire Buddhist relics, participate in a luck-calling ritual, and learn about the family values of Laos.
- We will talk about the country's difficult history in the second half of the 20th century at the COPE Visitor Centre, which was created for the rehabilitation of those affected by cluster bombs dropped on Laos during the Vietnam War.
- In the Pha That Luang temple, I will explain why Laos's main symbol, the Emerald Buddha, is now located in Bangkok. And in the Wat Sisaket temple, you will examine statues from the 16th century and learn how the structure survived the Siamese invasion.
- The Patuxai Victory Arch will help you understand the spirit of Laos through architectural symbolism. You will understand why the lower part of the structure resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, while the upper part is filled with traditional Buddhist ornaments.
- The Pha That Luang temple. We will not ignore the city's main sanctuary: you will walk around the huge stupa in accordance with Buddhist canons and then perform the 'ritual of good deeds'.
The art of Lao silk
At the Vientiane Morning Market, dozens of stalls with world-famous Lao silk will open before us: you will be surprised, but even in the 21st century, most Laotians prefer to wear national silk costumes. I will talk about silk weaving and traditional Lao clothing, teach you how to 'read' patterns and motifs on silk, and understand their symbolism.
About Laos without myths and stereotypes
I will help you see Vientiane as the Laotians themselves see it: without the monotonous facts from guidebooks and outdated stereotypes. You will see how few authentic descriptions of Laos can be found online and learn about what the country is really like today. I will answer all your questions about everyday life, traditions, cuisine, and the mentality of the Laotians, share useful tips, and tell you the most important things about the local religion.
Organizational Details
- Additional expenses: entrance tickets to temples - approximately $10 per person, as well as transportation (taxis, tuk-tuks, etc.) - at your discretion.
- Be sure to wear comfortable and easy-to-remove footwear for the walk (you are expected to take off your shoes in temples). Don’t forget a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Our route includes visiting temples, so your clothing should be loose, covering your shoulders and knees.
