Hi All,
First stop was a market where vendors sell roots, herbs and other natural medications. Then we drove to the Golden Stupa, one of the most significant Buddhist sites in Laos.
This is the convention center for gatherings of monks.
The reclining Buddha is huge.
No shortage of smaller Buddha images.
Next was the Victory Arch. In 1962 the US built numerous runways throughout Laos to support bombing the Ho Chi Minh Trail. There was lots of concrete left over so the government built this huge arch as a tomb to their unknown soldiers. Several of us climbed the nearly 200 steps for the great view.
When the Communists took over in 1975 they changed the name to Victory Arch.
Our last stop was at Wat Sisaket. This is the oldest surviving temple complex in Laos. All the others were destroyed in the 1800's when Siam invaded. It is now a museum and no photos are allowed.
We did have a wonderful opportunity to meet and talk to these two monks. Both are from poor families and they chose to become monks to further their education.
When asked about cell phones they said it was now allowed. At that point one of their cell phones began to ring and he dug it out from the folds of his robes.
This couple in traditional wedding garb was in the temple to shoot their wedding pictures.
All that before lunch🙀🙀.
Love,
Sandy & Carl
Sandy & Carl
Living & Traveling in our Motorhome
Volunteering across America
617-435-8502
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