population: 0.14 million

extension: 16,389 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in Xaignabouli and want to visit museums, a great place to visit would be the Paklay Historical Park, which is located about 30 kilometers southeast of Xaignabouli. The park features ancient ruins and artifacts dating back to the Khmer Empire. If you're looking for other museums nearby, you might consider visiting the Luang Prabang National Museum or the Lao National Museum in Vientiane.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Xaignabouli and throughout Laos include:

1. Larb: a salad made with minced meat (usually chicken, pork or fish), mixed with herbs, spices, lime juice, and toasted rice powder.

2. Tam mak hoong: a spicy papaya salad made with green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and chili peppers.

3. Khao soi: a noodle soup made with coconut milk, curry, meat (usually chicken or beef), and crispy noodles on top.

4. Mok pa: steamed fish wrapped in banana leaves with lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and other herbs and spices.

5. Laap meuk: a salad made with minced squid, mixed with herbs, spices, lime juice, and toasted rice powder.

6. Or lam: a stew made with mixed vegetables, meat (usually buffalo or pork), and fresh herbs like dill and basil.

7. Sai oua: a spicy sausage made with pork, herbs, and spices like lemongrass, galangal, and chili peppers.

8. Ping kai: grilled chicken marinated in a mixture of garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and other spices.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people in Xaignabouli enjoy include:

1. Visiting the Nam Poung Market: This bustling market is a great place to sample local food and buy handicrafts made by local artisans.

2. Exploring the Nam Phouy National Biodiversity Conservation Area: This protected area is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including elephants, tigers, and gibbons. Visitors can take guided hikes and boat tours to explore the area's natural beauty.

3. Attending a traditional Lao dance performance: The Lao Loum Cultural Association in Xaignabouli city offers regular performances of traditional Lao dance, music, and theater.

4. Taking a boat trip on the Mekong River: The Mekong River runs along the eastern border of Xaignabouli province, and taking a boat trip is a great way to experience the beautiful scenery and spot wildlife like river dolphins and otters.

5. Relaxing at the Thongmixay Hot Springs: Located about 20 kilometers from Xaignabouli city, these natural hot springs offer a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.