I am going to be in Laos for two weeks in July. I am looking for some suggestions on a place to go that is within about 100 or 150km of Vientiane which would be a good area to stay in as opposed to Vientianne itself. We would be looking to stay there 2-3 nights. Have a particular interest in nature and wildlife. Would welcome any ideas on places and things to do. Thanks
Well Vang Vieng is 150km from the capital.
At about 70km you have the Nam Ngum hydro lake, with boat trips to islands, fish restaurants and guesthouses
At about 120km, half an hour short of Vang Vieng, there is the Blue Lagoon resort, a french run small bungalow resort with kayaks, windsurfers etc., near Hinheup village which is famous for its smoked, pickled and fermented fish.
25km from the city there is Thanon - many people take day trips here to sit on the floating restaurants.
Going south at about 80km towards Thakhek you have the Phou Khai Khouay national protected area, which has (or used to have) accomodation in the bush where you can see elephants coming to the salt lick. Better check on this though as I had heard that the elephants have been chased off by angry farmers.
