Places kathykate Wants to Go

American bombs, morbid memorabilia, and graphic photographs tell the story of the CIA-led “Secret War” from the Pathet Lao perspective.

When the USA donated cement and funds to expand the airport in Laos, the Laotians built a massive monument instead.

This mysterious tower is said to enshrine a dormant seven-headed serpent that once protected Vientiane from destruction.

This Khmer temple is named after a young woman who sacrificed herself to protect the city from a disastrous deluge.

In the world's most bombed country relative to its size, this incredible organization helps pick up the pieces.

More than 200 statues filled with cryptic symbols give this park spot an aura of horror vacui fantasy.

Villagers have recycled bomber fuel tanks from the Vietnam War and turned them into very, very strong boats.

A boat ride through utter darkness, lit only by headlamps, reveals an emerald green pool locals believe is sacred.

Giant Buddhas carved into sandstone walls line this Laotian motorbike route.

The largest hydroelectric project in Laos created this eerie landscape.

Mythological depictions of Laos’ national animal make this cave sacred.

This mysteriously shaped boulder may have been used for human sacrifice in ancient times.

This impressive clifftop temple was once at the center of an international custody dispute.

The river depicted in the antiwar film 'Apocalypse Now' was likely based on this Mekong tributary.

Arguing within this idyllic, circular volcanic lake is forbidden.

More than 100 Hindu temples are slowly being swallowed by the forest.

The abandoned airport is a strangely intact remnant of Cambodia's brutal Khmer Rouge regime.

Built by King Norodom to honor his late father.

Dedicated to improving the plight of the rare scaly anteater.

An abandoned Cambodian resort that mirrored the downfall of the country as it was happening.

A palace destined to never house a king.

A former French military respite turned jungle tourism hotspot.

This cavern was used as a hidden hospital and safe house during the Vietnam War.

Out of all the statues of Ho Chi Minh in Vietnam, this one is the tallest and the most impressive.