Vientiane, acutally pronounced WIENG CHAN

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Vientiane is the romanized version of the city's name given to it by the French. It is a translation of "Sandalwood City".
We have been impressed by the amount of construction going on here. I think the Communist regime is trying to improve things. However, as in Thailand, I am distressed to note very poor working conditions. We've been told that most workers make about $20 a month. I have seen very little protection for workers: no work boots, masks, ear or eye protection, very few helmets. We often see workers using heavy machinery in bare feet. Scaffoldings are made from bamboo; I've heard it's strong, but it sure looks flimsy.
For the average person walking in the streets, look out! Uneven sidewalks, huge unmarked holes that lead down to drainage ditches. I have not seen anyone in a wheelchair, few with canes. I don't imagine they would fare well.
I think in a few years, Vientiane will be a more attractive city (when some of these construction projects get finished!).

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