Tips for family travel and finding kid-friendly activities. Discover the journey from Vang Vieng to Vientiane in Laos with a baby.
Table of Contents
Main Journey of Vang Vieng to Vientiane Travel
After spending two nights in Vang Vieng, we decided to leave for Vientiane instead of extending our stay. Despite Vang Vieng’s natural beauty and leisure activities, it wasn’t the most child-friendly destination. Most of the activities, like tubing, cave tours, zip-lining, and kayaking, were either too risky or simply inaccessible with a toddler.
Our decision to leave was sealed when the early morning thunderstorm dashed any hopes of a peaceful tubing experience. The heavy rain flooded the streets, and we waded barefoot to find a travel agency. Luckily, we secured seats on a 1:30 PM minivan to Vientiane, giving us enough time to pack, check out, and grab lunch.
Events
Booking the Minivan
We initially hoped for an earlier departure, but all morning slots were fully booked. The rain-soaked streets and closed agencies made the search challenging. Eventually, we reserved seats on a 45-seat bus instead of a minivan, as the morning bookings were sold out.
Travel to Vientiane
The journey from Vang Vieng to Vientiane took around 4 hours. The road alternated between bumpy dirt paths and smooth stretches, but the bus made good time. Sweetie munched happily on a piece of corn gifted by a fellow passenger. For her, it was a small adventure filled with naps, snacks, and curious stares out the window.
Arrival in Vientiane
The bus dropped us off near Mixok Inn, right in the heart of the traveler district. After some searching, we found a budget-friendly guesthouse with clean rooms and a charming balcony overlooking a temple. The evening was spent exploring the nearby night market and enjoying a delicious meal at a local eatery.
Tips for Traveling with a baby
- Be Flexible with Plans: Rainy weather or unforeseen events can disrupt your itinerary. Always have a backup plan when traveling with a child.
- Carry Emergency Supplies: Sweetie’s mosquito bites swelled overnight, but the antihistamine cream we packed reduced the swelling quickly. A well-stocked medical kit is invaluable.
- Entertainment for Long Rides: Pack snacks and small toys to keep your child entertained on long bus rides. Sweetie loved snacking on the local corn while gazing out the window.
Local Travel Tips
- Book Tickets in Advance: Popular routes like Vang Vieng to Vientiane fill up quickly, especially in the mornings. Booking a day ahead ensures better options.
- Accommodations in Vientiane: Look for clean, budget-friendly guesthouses near the traveler district. Many offer balconies with great views, adding charm to your stay.
- Understanding the Infrastructure: The raised floors in restaurants and homes are designed to prevent flooding during heavy rains. This clever adaptation showcases how locals manage the tropical climate.
Travel Reflections of Vang Vieng to Vientiane Travel
Vang Vieng, with its stunning landscapes, felt like a missed opportunity. Its focus on adventure activities and a bustling backpacker scene made it challenging to fully enjoy as a family with a toddler. The heavy rains didn’t help either, leaving us longing for a more family-oriented experience.
On the road to Vientiane, the charm of Laos revealed itself again. The warmth of locals, Sweetie’s joy at simple snacks, and the serene beauty of the countryside reminded us why we embarked on this world travel journey. Though Vang Vieng wasn’t perfect for us, it added another layer to our understanding of Laos—a place where nature and culture blend beautifully.
Vientiane greeted us with calm streets, friendly smiles, and a promise of a fresh start. Tomorrow is a new day, and Laos always has more to offer.
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