Visit Sam Nuea, Laos

Capital of Houaphanh Province in the far north east of Laos, Sam Nuea is a little-visited town surrounded by lush green hills and the main stopping off point for those wishing to visit Vieng Xai caves further east.

It has little to offer except its remoteness and attractive setting, though textile enthusiasts can find a range of interesting textiles on sale in the market and a visit to a local textile village can be arranged through the local tourism office.

You will also find numerous nick-nacks made from the debris of the American bombing campaigns during the Indochina War. There is a nice promenade which takes about 20 minutes along the river here and leads to the only temple in the area. There is also a hot spring nearby.