Planning a trip from Vientiane to Vang Vieng in Laos? I recently made this journey in early October 2024 and wanted to share my experience, particularly focusing on the choice between a minivan and the newer high-speed train.
Why I Chose the Minivan
While the high-speed train built by China offers a quicker commute, I ultimately opted for the minivan, and here’s why:
- Cost-Effectiveness: The minivan ticket was a budget-friendly 150,000 kip (approximately 960 JPY). In contrast, the train ticket would have set me back 400,000 kip (around 2,560 JPY).
- Convenience: The minivan dropped me off directly in Vang Vieng, which was incredibly convenient for my accommodation. The train station, however, is located a bit outside of town, requiring additional transport.
Journey Details: What to Expect
My minivan journey took about 2 hours, which is longer than the train’s 1-hour trip, but the savings and direct drop-off made it worthwhile.
Booking and Departure
Minivan tickets can typically be booked on the spot or through local travel agents. The minivan station in Vientiane is conveniently located near the Laos National Culture Hall. There are three daily departure times to Vang Vieng:
- 9:00 AM
- 12:00 PM (Noon)
- 2:00 PM
The journey itself was straightforward, with a brief roadside stop for a stretch.
For travelers heading from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, especially those mindful of their budget and seeking direct access to the town, the minivan remains a perfectly viable and efficient option. It might not be the fastest, but it certainly gets the job done without breaking the bank.
