Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane

Appearing like a miniature Arc de Triomphe on one of Vientiane's main avenues, Patuxay, or “Victory Arch”, was built between 1957 and 1968 to honour those who gave their lives during the struggle for independence from France. Patuxay has four arched gateways, and the ceilings are decorated with Buddhist mythological creatures and Hindu gods, including the three-headed elephant Erawan. Visitors are encouraged to climb to the top of the monument for breathtaking panoramic views of the city

Considered a symbol of Laos and its most important national monument, Pha That Luang was built in 1556. The 45-metre main stupa was originally covered in gold leaf and is believed to contain a relic of the Lord Buddha, and is surrounded by 30 smaller stupas said to contain the ashes of former kings and other royal family members. The temple has been through several restorations as a result of invasions. Today, still covered in gold, it is a significant spiritual centre for Buddhism in Laos