Located on the left bank of Mekong River, Laos’ capital city of Vientiane is the starting point for all excursions to the country. Luang Prabang, far to the north of Vientiane on the Mekong River, is the world-recognised heritage site with ancient temples and magnificent palaces dated to 1,000 years ago. Heading to the south, the riverine archipelago Siphandon is a must-visit place for tourists when cruising the Mekong River.
In Vientiane, the cruise trip will deepen tourists’ feelings of a peaceful and tranquil land. The river’s section is calm and quiet with boats slowly drifting along the water, while visitors are like spectators watching slow-motion movies with scenic images being slowly screened in front of them.
These are the images of peaceful villages, fishermen on wooden canoes, and children playing along villages’ roads. There are also many beautiful and ancient temples which are hidden behind green trees on both sides of the river.
In addition to offering enjoyable sightseeing, a river cruise trip around Vientiane can also provide visitors with the opportunity to enjoy traditional cuisine right from the mobile restaurant on the cruise as they are served aromatic cups of coffee, delicious grilled dishes, and a hearty lunch with savoury dishes.
They can enjoy fresh fish and shrimp with delicious and attractive flavours to excite all the senses. For many people who first set foot in Laos, the most challenging feeling when discovering the Mekong River is not the moment when they feel immersed amidst the vast river but when the chef places ‘goong ten’ (dancing shrimp salad) in front of them and gives instructions on how to eat live shrimp.
But after overcoming hesitation to take the challenge, many people rate this dish as tasty as other signature dishes of Laos such as sticky rice, grilled chicken and Lao larb (salad) – the specialties that make the journey on a boat along the Mekong River an unforgettable experience.
