Visit Pakse, Laos

As the gateway to southern Laos and a provincial capital, Pakse is typical of southern settlements with one or two wonderful if slightly tired old colonial buildings.

Much like southern Laos itself, Pakse is characterised by a feeling that time has taken a detour and passed it by.

The town is small and compact making it easy to explore by foot, and with an afternoon in town you should head to the river to watch sunset over the Mekong.

The market is also worth a visit if you have time.