A mountainous,landlocked country,situated at the heart of South East Asia,Laos' lifeline is the Mekong River that flows the length of the country,providing water for agricultural lands and a major means of transport. Vientiane,the unassuming capital,is situated on its banks,and the city provides a comfortable introduction to the charms of the country. Laos's most enticing destination is the town of Luang Prabang,the former royal kingdom,with a legacy of splendid golden temples and whitewashed houses.