Vientiane is the capital of Laos, and is hands-down the best place to visit in the country.
Known for its beautiful cultural heritage and significant monuments, Vientiane promises tourists an experience like none other. Ancient shrines, sublime structures, and famous museums; there’s a lot to see here.
To get the most out of your trip to Vientiane, protect your health and finances with proper travel medical insurance or travel insurance.
Vientiane Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
Whatever you do, don’t travel to Laos without travel medical insurance. Be it a tuk-tuk accident or water contamination — travel medical insurance can help you find the healthcare you need while the contents of your bank account remain safe and sound.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Vientiane?
Currently, all visitors entering Laos are required to have travel medical insurance providing coverage for COVID-19.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Vientiane?
Firstly, it is required. In addition, Vientiane is an amazing city to visit, but it isn’t without its risks. Medical calamities can arrive unannounced anywhere, anytime. In such cases, it is always better to be prepared.
Make the wise decision and buy travel medical insurance.
Vientiane Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers — FAQs
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Vientiane?
Trip cancellation insurance is essential, because travel is unpredictable. Imagine having to cancel your trip unexpectedly due to an illness or family emergency. Many of your prepaid expenses, such as airline tickets and hotel reservations, are nonrefundable. If you cannot go on your trip, you could lose out on all of that money.
Trip cancellation insurance can help you recoup your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if you must cancel your trip due to a reason that’s covered by the policy.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Vientiane?
For your trip to Vientiane, make sure that your trip cancellation insurance plan covers:
Don’t make the mistake of booking your trip without coverage. Buy travel insurance so that you can enjoy your vacation.
Things to Do for Travelers in Vientiane
Vat That Khao
A site like no other, Vat That Khao is a temple where tourists can experience the religious heritage of Laos. Another plus point of visiting this shrine is the stunning architecture and the immaculate grounds.
On the grounds of Vat That Khao, you’ll find the famous statue of a huge, sleeping Buddha.
Pha That Luang
One of the most sacred places in Laos, the Pha That Luang is another shrine in Vientiane. The stylistic architecture of this monument makes it worth visiting.
This gold-covered Buddhist stupa is the most famous site not only in Vientiane, but in all of Laos. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wishes to gain some insight into the cultural history of the city.
Remember when visiting temples and shrines to always be respectful of those that are there for religious purposes.
Trick Art Museum Laos
Take a break from exploring the religious side of Vientiane and head over to the Trick Art Museum Laos. The surreal and mind-blowing 3D paintings here are sure to make you question whether or not the images are real.
Patuxay Monument
An iconic landmark, the Patuxay (or Patuxai) is a war monument built as a memorial for the martyrs who fought for independence from France. It’s a great place to take a stroll, or simply sit and admire the wider Patuxay Park.
Adventurous souls can even climb up to the top of the Patuxay and enjoy panoramic views of Vientiane.
Lao Textile Museum
Your trip to Vientiane is incomplete if you don’t visit this aesthetic and offbeat museum. It is one of the key cultural sights in the city, filled with ancient weaving and looming tools and antique textiles.
You can roam the gardens surrounding this vintage wooden house, or partake in some textile painting yourself.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Vientiane
Transportation and Roads
Vientiane roads are filled with potholes, dust, and aggressive traffic. To get around, you’ll have to sit in hot and crowded buses, rocky boats, or run-down tuk-tuks.
The best recommendation would be to rent a motorcycle of your own, but be sure that you have a motorcycle license if you’re renting one.
Beggars
Beggars in Vientiane don’t merely beg for money, they demand it.
Try to avoid walking the streets of Vientiane alone.
Pickpockets
If you’re roaming in crowded areas, be extra careful of your wallet. Pickpockets are one of your biggest concerns in this city.
If you’re heading into a marketplace, carry a slash-proof bag with you, or invest in an RFID wallet.
Diseases
Some diseases that are common in Vientiane are:
- Hepatitis E
- Hepatitis B
- Dengue fever
- Tuberculosis
- Japanese encephalitis
Contaminated water
The World Travel Guide advises tourists to assume that any water they receive in Vientiane is contaminated. You don’t want any germs or viruses ruining your trip, so make sure you boil your water before drinking it.
Before You Travel to Vientiane — Do This
Vaccinations
Some diseases are pretty common in Vientiane, so before stepping into this exotic city, make sure that your vaccinations are up to date, including COVID-19.
Precautions against pickpockets
One cannot always avoid going into crowded areas, especially in a populated city like Vientiane. Before your trip, buy a slash-proof bag and an RFID wallet. Also, consider buying a lock for your luggage.
Buy insurance
Be prepared for uncertainties by purchasing travel medical insurance or travel insurance for your trip to Vientiane.