Vang Vieng

Many travellers are drawn to Vang Vieng’s natural landscape of limestone cliffs and paddy fields. This small town lies on the Nam Song River, between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. One of its most popular caves is Tham Poukham, where you can swim in a striking blue lagoon as well as visit a golden statue of a sleeping Buddha and unique rock formations.

Vang Vieng is also known for tubing – you’ll often see young travellers in large inner tubes floating down the Nam Song River. There isn’t a lot of variety when it comes to dining, but you’ll still be able to enjoy a nice meal at the town’s laid-back style restaurants, local markets, and food stalls.