COPE Visitor Centre - a small building with a wagon in front of it
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COPE Visitor Centre

4.7
·722 reviews·ວຽງຈັນ, Laos

A deeply moving center detailing Laos' history as the most bombed country per capita, supporting survivors of unexploded ordnance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection

CrowdLow
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COPE Visitor Centre - a small building with a wagon in front of it

COPE Visitor Centre

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A deeply moving center detailing Laos' history as the most bombed country per capita, supporting survivors of unexploded ordnance.

4.7
(722 reviews)

"A profound and unforgettable experience in Vientiane, essential for understanding Laos' history."

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TIP

Donations are Key

Entry is free, but donations are vital to support COPE's work with bomb survivors . :heart:

Watch the Documentary

Don't miss the powerful film; it provides crucial context to the exhibits. :movie_camera:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bombing Exhibits

The Bombing Exhibits

Powerful displays detailing Laos' history as the most bombed country per capita.

Documentary Film

Documentary Film

A harrowing yet essential film showcasing the ongoing legacy of unexploded ordnance.

Survivor-Made Handicrafts

Survivor-Made Handicrafts

Purchase unique, handmade items to directly support victims and their rehabilitation.

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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Impact

Prepare for a deeply moving experience. The COPE Visitor Centre educates on the devastating impact of the Vietnam War's bombing campaigns on Laos. Donations are crucial as funding has been reduced.Reddit

Allocate Your Time Wisely

While compact, the center offers profound insights. Plan for about 40 minutes to absorb the exhibits and watch the documentary, which is highly recommended.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Catch the documentary
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Our Visitor Information Center staff and volunteers are a crucial part of our efforts to help connect people to all the exciting attractions in the Pikes Peak Region. Whether you're a visitor or a local, stop by our Visitor Center and find something fun to do in Colorado Springs!   #NationalTravelAndTourismWeek
@visitcos
255.9K likes • 2.2M views

Donations are Key

Entry is free, but donations are vital to support COPE's work with bomb survivors.Reddit :heart:

Watch the Documentary

Don't miss the powerful film; it provides crucial context to the exhibits. :movie_camera:

reddit.com

One day in Vientiane, what to see?

reddit.com

What to do in Vientiane for 3 days?

Support Survivors

Buying handicrafts directly aids victims and their rehabilitation efforts. :shopping_cart:

Allow Time for Reflection

The exhibits are intense; give yourself space to process the information. :thought_balloon:

reddit.com

Travel Advice Please

Tips

from all over the internet

Donations are Key

Entry is free, but donations are vital to support COPE's work with bomb survivors.Reddit :heart:

Watch the Documentary

Don't miss the powerful film; it provides crucial context to the exhibits. :movie_camera:

Support Survivors

Buying handicrafts directly aids victims and their rehabilitation efforts. :shopping_cart:

Allow Time for Reflection

The exhibits are intense; give yourself space to process the information. :thought_balloon:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(722 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently describe the COPE Visitor Centre as a profound, moving, and essential experience in Vientiane. While the subject matter is harrowing, the center is praised for its educational value and the powerful insights it offers into the lasting impact of the Vietnam War's bombing campaigns on Laos. Many highlight the importance of donations to support ongoing rehabilitation efforts.

"A Profound and Unforgettable Experience in Vientiane
This museum is an essential stop for anyone visiting Vientiane. The exhibits provide a powerful and deeply moving account of the impact the war had and continues to have on the people of Laos. We were stunned to learn that the country endured the equivalent of a plane full of bombs being dropped every eight minutes, around the clock, for nine consecutive years.

Be sure to watch the documentary.

The legacy of this devastation persists today, as many unexploded “bombies” still remain buried across the countryside.

Entry is donation-based, and we were glad to support further by purchasing handmade goods crafted by survivors.

A truly excellent and eye-opening visit."

L M

"A must visit if you’re coming to Vientiane. A deep insight into the countries history and a good cause to help the victims of this tragedy.
No entrance fee but there is opportunity for donations"

Olly Standen

"A harrowing experience in an unassuming place, this is an important place which details Laos as the unfortunate victims of a war they weren't a part of.

The front looks like a small school compound, but walking in you see small buildings housing the exhibition of the Laos bombings.

Small, but significant enough to sicken your stomach. There is a small exhibit, also a small movie room.

Immerse yourself in this place. I think 40 minutes is more than good enough. Entrance is free, I suggest spending some time if you're in Vientianne, to know more about the history of the place."

owen

What People Like

Powerful educational exhibits
Moving documentary film
Direct support for survivors

What People Dislike

Somber and sad atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The COPE Visitor Centre is centrally located in Vientiane, making it easily accessible. You can take a short tuk-tuk ride from most parts of the city. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with nearby attractions like the Patuxai Monument.Reddit

There is usually some space available for parking tuk-tuks or motorbikes directly outside the visitor center. If you're arriving by car, street parking might be available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

If you are staying in the city center, walking is a pleasant option. It's a good way to see more of Vientiane and is often part of a walking tour of the city's key sites.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the COPE Visitor Centre is free. However, donations are highly encouraged and are essential for supporting their ongoing work with victims of unexploded ordnance.Reddit

The visitor center is typically open daily from morning to late afternoon. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most current hours before your visit, as these can sometimes change.

No, advance booking is not required. You can visit anytime during their operating hours. The free entry and donation-based model make it very accessible for all travelers.

While the subject matter is serious, the exhibits are presented in an educational and informative way. It's generally suitable for older children and adults who can understand the historical context and impact of the war.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that 40 minutes to an hour is sufficient to see the exhibits and watch the documentary. However, you can spend longer if you wish to read all the information or spend more time in the gift shop.Reddit

Many visitors highlight the documentary film as particularly impactful, offering a deep dive into the ongoing consequences of the bombing. The personal stories and the displays of unexploded ordnance are also very sobering.Reddit

While there aren't formal guided tours, the staff and volunteers are often available to answer questions. The exhibits are well-labeled, and the documentary provides a comprehensive overview.

Photography policies can vary, but generally, it's advisable to be respectful and avoid flash photography, especially in areas with sensitive displays or during the documentary screening. Check for signage upon arrival.

The 'bombie' displays showcase actual unexploded ordnance found in Laos. They serve as a stark visual reminder of the dangers that still exist and the ongoing work required for clearance.Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Yes, there is a gift shop that sells beautiful handmade items crafted by survivors of the bombing. Purchasing items here is a direct way to support their rehabilitation and livelihoods.Reddit

The COPE Visitor Centre itself does not have a restaurant or cafe. However, there are numerous local eateries and street food vendors in the vicinity where you can find food after your visit.

The gift shop offers a range of unique handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, and other decorative items, all made by individuals who have been affected by unexploded ordnance. These make meaningful souvenirs.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the subject matter is serious, the COPE Visitor Centre offers an important educational opportunity for older children and teenagers. The exhibits are presented factually, and the documentary provides context about the impact of war. It's a chance to discuss history, resilience, and the importance of peace. Ensure children are prepared for potentially somber content. Consider focusing on the rehabilitation efforts and the positive impact of donations.

🌍 History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by 20th-century history, particularly the Vietnam War era, the COPE Visitor Centre is an essential stop. It offers a perspective often overlooked in mainstream historical accounts, detailing Laos' unique and tragic role. The depth of information on the bombing campaigns and their aftermath provides a comprehensive understanding of the conflict's far-reaching consequences. The personal stories and visual evidence make the history come alive in a profound way.

❤️ Socially Conscious Travelers

If you're a traveler who prioritizes making a positive impact, visiting COPE is highly recommended. Your donation directly supports vital bomb clearance and rehabilitation programs for victims of unexploded ordnance.Reddit Purchasing handicrafts from the gift shop is another meaningful way to contribute to the livelihoods of survivors. This experience allows you to connect with a critical humanitarian issue and actively participate in a cause that benefits the Laotian community.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Secret War

The COPE Visitor Centre is a crucial stop for understanding the profound and lasting impact of the 'Secret War' in Laos during the Vietnam War era. The United States conducted a massive bombing campaign, dropping more ordnance on Laos than on all of Europe during World War II, despite Laos being a neutral country.Reddit This relentless bombing, which occurred for nine years, meant that a plane full of bombs was dropped every eight minutes, around the clock. The sheer scale of this devastation is difficult to comprehend and has left an indelible mark on the nation.

The exhibits vividly illustrate this history through photographs, artifacts, and personal testimonies. Visitors are often struck by the realization that Laos remains the most heavily bombed country per capita in history. This historical context is essential for appreciating the ongoing challenges faced by the Laotian people and the vital work of organizations like COPE.

Understanding this history is not just about acknowledging past atrocities; it's about recognizing the present-day consequences. The legacy of the Secret War continues to affect Laos through the presence of millions of unexploded ordnance (UXO) scattered across the countryside, posing a constant threat to civilians, particularly children and farmers.Reddit The COPE Visitor Centre serves as a powerful reminder of this enduring danger and the importance of continued efforts in bomb clearance and victim assistance.

COPE's Mission: Clearance and Rehabilitation

The Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise (COPE) is at the forefront of addressing the ongoing crisis of unexploded ordnance in Laos. Their mission is twofold: bomb clearance and victim rehabilitation. The visitor center provides a window into the critical work they undertake daily to make Laos safer and to support those who have been injured by UXO.

COPE works tirelessly to clear the land of dangerous bombs, mines, and other explosive remnants of war. This is a painstaking and perilous task that requires specialized expertise and resources. By visiting the center and making a donation, visitors directly contribute to these life-saving efforts. The center highlights the urgent need for continued funding, especially as international aid has seen recent reductions.Reddit

Beyond clearance, COPE is deeply committed to the rehabilitation of bomb survivors. This includes providing prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices, and physical therapy to individuals who have suffered life-altering injuries. The gift shop, featuring handmade goods from survivors, is a testament to their resilience and a direct avenue for visitors to contribute to their recovery and well-being. The center emphasizes that the effects of war extend far beyond the battlefield, impacting generations through injury, disability, and ongoing fear.

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