In 1556, the Lao capitol was moved from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. Since then, except for a short period of self-government, it was always under the domination of foreign powers such as Burma, Thailand, and France.

City planning & architecture reflect a French influence, however the few remaining French buildings are old and badly maintained.

Apart from That Luang Temple, there are few tourist sights but Vientiane is a relaxing, uncrowded, capitol that serves as the gateway city of Laos.
At the time of research many roads were under construction, the center felt like a building site.

Photo: That Luang