Hello Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane is the sleepy capital of Laos, a smallish city with a rich patina of history and a sprinkling of modern amenities sprouting. Let's take a look around.

One of the impressive icons of the city is the mighty gold Buddhist stupa pyramid, Pha That Luang. Bling, bling.

Mighty Patuxay, Victory Monument. A little ode to French influence by way of diverted USA war funds. Mysterious That Dam stupa.

Sleepy town with lots of reclining Buddhas. Golden.

The modern world is arriving. Soon, stay at the fancy Hilton, slurp at the fancy Starbucks.

Ruling class. A big statue of King Anouvong looms over the Mekong river.