Viantiane, Laos, December 20, 2015

Today was one to explore this capital city, and to see the French influence.Near my hotel is a copy of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris; at the other end of rue Lane Xang is the Presidential Palace. These structures are about one and one half kilometers apart. In the cool (30 degree) morning, about nine, I set out to explore. The Arc was never finished, due to civil turbulence in the 60s. It was finished to where it is now in 1962. The area around is a wonder of fountains, gardens and the like, and today was extremely popular with tourists. I presume this is a common occurrence. I did a slow walk down the avenue, and around the palace, but not on the grounds. It was out of bounds for today, as the king of Cambodia is due to visit...he outranks me. I have found that, in all my travels, the people who have the least, seem to be the happiest, and the most willing to stop and chat. Laos is the poorest country in South East Asia, or next to the poorest...Cambodia is close as well. The poverty is visible in the infrastructure, buildings and every aspect of life here. Yet, the people are ready and willing to assist. The country is socialist, but will a seemingly free voting assembly. In new laws that will govern the next election, anyone over 18 can vote, anyone over 21 can run for the assembly. One important rule is that a candidate cannot talk bad about any other candidate. Maybe Canada could take a look at this novel idea!!!. Food is real inexpensive here, will a full meal in the range of about two dollars. While either Thai Baht or the Lao Kip are often used, some places only take local currency. It is often said here in Asia that the only people you cannot trust are lawyers and taxi drivers. When they say on a menu that chicken, pork, beef or fish is available, they are not lying...it includes the animal from the tip of the tail to the nose, and all in between...and inside. A few days ago, I went to a buffet for lunch in a mall. The restaurant was Chinese. I took some rice, and salad items that were identifiable. When I got to a pot that said, "Chicken with gravy", I took a ladle full to look at it. At the top was several items that I know come from the inside, and also a left foot......how do I know it was a left foot....I left it there, along with all the rest of the bird. It is so nice to have wifi, and be able to get on line, check news and sports, emails, etc. Tomorrow, I plan to do a tour of the city, if possible, and then some walking within the inner city. They have many new buildings and others under construction, so the face of the city is gradually changing. That will be my thoughts for today.