population: 0.11 million

extension: 4.51 square kilometers

Museums

If you're interested in museums while visiting Vang Vieng, one option is to visit the Kaysone Phomvihane Memorial Museum located in the nearby city of Vientiane. This museum showcases the life and accomplishments of Kaysone Phomvihane, a former Prime Minister of Laos.

If you're looking for other museums in the area, the Lao National Museum in Vientiane is another option that offers exhibits on the history and culture of Laos. Another option is the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre in Luang Prabang, which focuses on the ethnic diversity of Laos and showcases traditional art and crafts.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Vang Vieng, Laos include:

1. Laap (also spelled as "larb") - a salad made with minced meat (chicken, pork, or beef), fish sauce, lime juice, herbs, and spices.

2. Khao Soi - a noodle dish that features egg noodles served in a curry-like soup with coconut milk, chicken or beef, and topped with crispy noodles and fresh herbs.

3. Tam Mak Hoong - a spicy papaya salad made with shredded green papaya, chili peppers, garlic, fish sauce, and tomatoes.

4. Or Lam - a stew made with either chicken or pork, mixed vegetables, and lemongrass, and flavored with galangal and kaffir lime leaves.

5. Sai Oua - a grilled sausage made with minced pork, lemongrass, chilies, and other herbs and spices.

6. Sticky rice (also called glutinous rice or "khao niao") - a staple food in Laos, often eaten with various savory dishes and used as a utensil to scoop up other foods.

These dishes are beloved by locals and visitors alike, and they offer a great introduction to the flavors of Lao cuisine.

Activities

Vang Vieng offers a variety of fun activities that local people enjoy. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Tubing: Floating down the Nam Song river on an inner tube is a popular activity among both tourists and locals.

2. Rock Climbing: Vang Vieng is surrounded by stunning limestone karst mountains, making it a great destination for rock climbers.

3. Hot Air Balloon ride: Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery from high in the sky with a hot air balloon ride.

4. Cycling: Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside around Vang Vieng at your own pace.

5. Hiking: There are several hiking trails in the area that offer the chance to see some of the region's most beautiful landscapes up close.

6. Kayaking: Paddle down the Nam Song river and take in scenic views while enjoying a bit of adventure.

7. Cave exploring: Vang Vieng has several caves that are open for exploration, including Tham Chang cave and Tham Phu Kham cave.