Phonsavan

Phonsavan is the capital of Xieng Khouang province in northeastern Laos. It sits on a plateau surrounded by rolling hills, giving it a peaceful atmosphere despite its turbulent history. The town itself is rather simple and functional, built after the original provincial capital was destroyed during the Secret War in the 1960s and 70s.

The main reason travelers make the journey to Phonsavan is to visit the Plain of Jars - one of Southeast Asia's most mysterious archaeological sites. These massive stone jars are scattered across several sites near town, with some weighing up to several tons each. Archaeologists believe they're around 2,000 years old, possibly used for ancient burial practices, though their exact purpose remains debated.

Phonsavan also bears the tragic distinction of being one of the most heavily bombed areas during the Secret War. The region still deals with the aftermath of unexploded ordnance (UXO), with local organizations working to clear dangerous areas. Some restaurants and shops in town have turned bomb casings into decorative items or planters - a creative way locals have transformed remnants of war into something useful.

The surrounding countryside offers beautiful landscapes with farms, forests and Hmong and Khmu ethnic villages. The local food scene features traditional Lao dishes with some unique regional specialties. The cool highland climate also makes Phonsavan more comfortable than the hot lowlands, especially during summer months.