Getting There
By Plane -- Vientiane is Laos's major international hub for air travel. If you're arriving via Wattay International Airport in Vientiane, a taxi to town will cost 50,000 kip (US$5/£2.75).
By Bus -- The Northern Bus Station (tel.021/260-555) connects Vientiane with all destinations in Laos. The bus station at the Morning Market (tel. 021/216-507), which is called Talat Sao in Lao, is the hub for local buses as well as those linking Vientiane with Nong Khai and Udonthani in Thailand via the Friendship Bridge.
Getting Around
The city lies on the east side of the Mekong River (the western bank is Thailand). The main streets, running parallel to each other, are Samsenthai and Setthathirat, with Lane Xang, the north-south artery, intersecting them. The heart of the city is Nam Phu Fountain, and many of the directions in this chapter are given in relation to it.
Central Vientiane is easily covered on foot. You can also hire a tuk-tuk, a covered cart behind a motorbike, or a jumbo, a bigger version of the same. Drivers charge about 5,000 kip to 10,000 kip (US50¢-US$1/£0.28-£0.55) around town; settle the price before you ride. Bikes are a great way to get around town. Both bicycle and motorcycle rentals are available at many storefronts along Fa Ngum Road near the river or along Samsenthai. You can also rent a car with driver for 600,000 kip (US$60/£33) per day around town. Trips further afield will cost between US$80 and US$90 (£44-£50). Call Asia Vehicle Rental (tel. 021/217-493; www.avr.laopdr.com) or inquire at any hotel front desk.
Visitor Information & Tours
There is a tourist information office on Lane Xang Avenue, just north of the Morning Market. The Vientiane Times (www.vientianetimes.org.la) is the local English-language paper, a fun read with good listings of local events.
