Whether Vientiane is expensive or cheap, is in the eye of the beholder. If you’re from a western country, you may find the city relatively cheap. But let me tell you one thing: Vientiane is more expensive than you may expect. In genereal, Laos is more expensive than its neighbouring countries. The reason for this is simple. Since Laos has so far hardly any industry, many goods have to be imported from the surrounding countries. This increases the price of services and goods. Many foods that you might know from supermarkets in Thailand are a good deal more expensive in Laos. Vientiane is no exception. Well, we don’t want to lie. Yes, Vientiane is actually expensive. But there are also cheap things. For example, you can get filled baguettes and good beer for really little money.