Thakhaek Town, Khammouane Travel Package Tours, Laos Tour Information Hotel Guide

THAKHAEK OVERVIEW

The provincial capital of Khammouane Province, Thakhaek, is located on the banks of the Mekong River. Much of its architecture can be traced to French colonial construction in the early 20th century. The town's name in Lao mean "guest landing" ("khaek" literally meaning guest), a reference to its earlier role as a boat landing for foreign traders. The center of the old town can be found around the fountain square near the river where many old building remain. The bustling Thai town of Nakhon Phanom is across the Mekong River while Tha Khaek is certainly not the most exciting town in Laos it is a good deal more interesting than its cross-river neighbour. Seemingly in a perpetual state of public holiday, with the streets invariably almost empty save for leaves and litter blowing down the gutters of the main boulevard in the hot dry wind. Tha Khaek is a pretty town oozing with tourist potential of which precious little has been realised. Nevertheless architecture buffs may find Tha Khaek of interest, as it still contains some good examples of French and Vietnamese architecture, although as more money pours into development here, the aesthetic value of the town is slowly diminishing. Tha Khaek means "Guest landing" which, while originally a reference to the towns stature as a riverine trading outpost, still holds water today as foreign visitors continue to arrive by boat -- Tha Khaek is a full international border crossing between Thailand and Laos. The main reason for staying in Tha Khaek is to explore the hinterland surrounding the town. There are ample attractions - caves, swimming holes and stunning scenery - mostly easily taken in by tuk tuk or motorcycle - to keep you busy for at least a couple of days. The town has a more than adequate selection of guesthouses and hotels - many of which can furnish you with more information for exploring the province.