Chinese New Year

Rockets and fireworks can be heard outside as the locals begin celebrating Chinese New Year.  Lanterns are strung around town, and school.

China is a huge presence in Vientiane and Laos - the economy (what there is of it) is driven by Chinese investment.

Across the road from my apartment Chinese investors - using Chinese workers- are building the "World Trade Centre".  Construction has stopped as workers go home for New Year with their families, but the lantern is still there - slightly obstructing the Laos flag.