Presidential Palace, Vientiane

This building is not accessible but due to its size, location and function is a well-known landmark. Originally built for the French colonial governor and later used by the Lao royal family, it is now used for ceremonial government occasions. The two story Beaux Arts mansion sits behind high walls and wrought iron gates and is surrounded by extensive manicured grounds. The grey walls, white trim and colonnaded balconies give it an air of stately elegance, enhanced whenever the red carpet is rolled down the broad front steps for visiting foreign dignitaries.