Savannakhet is supposed to be the “Luang Prabang” of southern Laos, but to me exhibited none of the charm of its supposed twin in the north…
It is however quite a busy little town, as it forms an important link between Vietnam and Thailand. It is also a halfway stop for people traveling from Vientiane down to the southern town of Pakxe…
One surprising landmark in town is the Catholic Church of St Teresia, built in 1930. The walls are lined with hardwood wooden carvings depicting the fourteen stations of the cross, and it was strange to see that all the faces in the carvings have distinctive Asian features… A different take from a different culture…!!
St Theresia Catholic Church, Savannakhet...
Just around the corner stands a well maintained Chinese Wat, or Temple… Many of the other Wats in town stand crumbling and seemingly forgotten, but this one is constantly being upgraded and painted… Workman were happy for me to walk around and take photos…
Buddhist Temple built and maintained by Chinese...
The many layered roof of the main Temple...
The main streets are lined with local restaurants, and down along the muddy Mekong, many street vendors stand side by side, selling grilled river fish and other delicacies…
But for the most part, I found Savannakhet a laid back and rather sleepy backwater…
Even the dogs take things easy in Savannakhet...
I spent a day walking around and looking for things to eat that would not make me have to stay there longer than necessary… I watched a group of obviously starving backpackers trying to order something that would agree with their delicate constitutions…
Eventually one of them said, “Let’s just order a big bowl of rice, for God’s sake…!!” Safe choice, Dudes…!!
©GBWT 2011
Sounds like a good idea to get out of there as soon as possible. If you don’t electrecute yourself, you may end up with a great case of the “runs”. I even worry for the dog sleeping on the table – is it not possibly a food display for the restaurant ?
Mmmmmmmmm some hair raising experiences since last I read your blog – I’m really glad that you’ve made it through and met all these wonderful people, AGAIN…
But remember not to tempt fate – this is the one time you will hear me say – stay dirty – don’t dare go into that shower again, pleeeeeeeease!!!!
I think Mark could be right – that dog could be the food display – stay away from that place as well!!!
But I’m sure you have realised this before I even mentioned it!!!
Please be safe and as always…
BIG kisses
K