The train rumbles on, and the journey to Vientiane begins

It was once unimaginable to take a Chinese train directly to the capital of a foreign country, but at the end of the Year of the Dragon, I embarked on this wonderful journey. The "Starlight Lancang-Mekong Express" arrived in Vientiane, the capital of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, our close neighbor. Vientiane, also known as Vientiane or Sandalwood, is the capital of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, the political, economic, cultural center, and the largest city. The city is located on the northern bank of the middle reaches of the Mekong River, facing Nong Khai Province in Thailand across the river, and is one of the few capitals in the world located near the border. As the city extends along the banks of the Mekong River in a crescent shape, Vientiane is also known as the "City of the Moon." In Lao, Vientiane means "City of Sandalwood," as it is said that sandalwood was once abundant here. Vientiane is an ancient city with a long history, having served as the capital of several dynasties since the 14th century. Since the mid-16th century, when the capital was moved here from Luang Prabang, Vientiane has been the political, economic, and cultural center of Laos. Vientiane is also a city with a strong Buddhist atmosphere. The That Luang is the most famous stupa in Laos, a symbol of Vientiane, and one of the important attractions in Southeast Asia. The That Luang Square is the largest square in Vientiane, second only to Tiananmen Square in Beijing. Another landmark in Vientiane is the "Patuxai," and several nearby buildings were built with Chinese aid. "Vientiane" is a place I have visited before, and every step here is filled with memories. Looking at the scenery on both sides of the Mekong River, the view remains the same, but my mood is new. The sunset is gentle, and the wind is charming. Ah, ten years have passed in the blink of an eye. Sanmao said, "The taste of life, whether it is highbrow or simple, must be tasted by oneself." Only by savoring the taste of each day can we truly appreciate life. Travel is not about the destination, but about the scenery along the way and the people you travel with. Those laughs and moments are the true meaning of travel. Arriving in "Vientiane," I hope for a new beginning. May love be like the sunset, growing stronger with time.