Although the chapter of wartime history concluded over 100 years ago, the enchanting charm of Vientiane has never faded with time. Instead, it has only intensified, preserving a beautifully classic artistic aura found in the remnants of buildings and houses across Vientiane—better known to many as "Colonial Style Architecture." The term "Colonial Style" originates from the word "Colony." Laos fell under this architectural influence during the French colonial era, when France named the territory "Laos" and demarcated its administrative regions. At that time, Vientiane was governed by French officials, serving as the central hub of administrative operations.
Colonial Style Architecture in Vientiane is easily found due to its highly distinctive building designs, which can be identified by the following prominent characteristics:
The overall layout of the building presents a symmetrical, rectangular structure.
The front ground floor of the building is often designed with a continuous series of horseshoe-shaped arches, forming a covered pedestrian walkway or arcade.
Tall columns are used to support wide, overhanging eaves, with column capitals elaborately decorated with spiral scrolls or large leaf motifs.
Doors and windows are meticulously aligned along a consistent parallel axis, with walls primarily constructed of weatherboard panels interspersed with concrete elements.
Strong architectural emphasis is placed on expansive wraparound balconies.
In the modern era, travellers can admire the beauty of colonial-style buildings on almost every street across Vientiane. Some properties have been repurposed into government offices, others developed into the Lao National Museum, and many serve as foreign embassies. A prime example is the Lao Presidential Palace (Hao Kham), which was beautifully restored and expanded from the original building while fully retaining its timeless colonial artistic aura. Naturally, it is not just Vientiane's architecture that is draped in French cultural influence—the culinary habits of the local people are equally rooted in French traditions. From coffee and various pastries to the standard baguette, you can find these items everywhere you look in Vientiane. This is especially true for the baguette, known locally as "Khao Jee Pâté" (baguette sandwich), which is a widely accessible and popular street food staple. However, the Laotian recipe modifies the traditional French style: locals slice the baguette lengthwise and stuff it generously with assorted fillings according to preference, including minced pork, Lao white sausage (Muu Yo), barbecued pork, pork floss, alongside a colorful array of julienned vegetables like papaya, carrots, cucumbers, and fresh coriander.
Beyond this famous baguette sandwich, the influence of French culinary arts continues to shape daily life in Vientiane. The elegant tradition of afternoon tea has seamlessly integrated into local lifestyles, which is prominently reflected in the widespread popularity of European pastries. Numerous cafes have opened throughout tourist districts and inside luxury hotels in Vientiane. Most of these establishments display a full range of masterfully prepared treats, including macarons, croissants, meringues, pies, crepes, and various cakes that look exactly like they were imported straight from a Parisian bakery.
If you have the opportunity to visit the historical city of Vientiane and want to try delicate pastries paired with premium coffee sourced directly from the highlands of Pakse, we highly recommend checking in at Crowne Plaza Vientiane. Prepare to indulge your palate at the Elephant Lounge—a remarkably comfortable relaxation venue ready to serve an array of choices for you to curate your favorite pairing. Enjoy premium coffee, fine teas, or refreshing sparkling wine served alongside an exquisite selection of sweets, including croissants, macarons, baguettes, and signature cakes. For your next trip, do not miss out on booking a flight to explore the timeless charms of Vientiane!