Vientiane isn’t the normal capital city you would expect it to be. There’s not much in the way of shopping or entertainment. There are a few temples to see around town.
There is Wat Mixay, which was closed for the 3 days I was there, Wat Hai Sok was also closed.
Wat In Paeng which was open for 5 minutes then they closed their doors when I left. Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan was open.
Wat Si Saket is a nice temple (5000 kip entry) but there is a Policeman in the main ‘Wat’ to stop you taking photos. I you do take a photo and they catch you, they will make you delete it from your digital camera or take the film out!
The secret is not to get caught and don’t use flash!
Haw Pha Kaew is along the same lines as Wat Si Saket, 5000 kip entry charge and no photos inside the main Wat. They too have a Policeman standing guard.