Fun Classes for Expats Living in Vientiane

For expats and digital nomads in Vientiane, finding engaging activities that cater to English speakers can be a delightful way to immerse oneself in the local culture while also meeting like-minded individuals. Whether you're interested in honing your culinary skills, learning the local language, or exploring your creative side, Vientiane offers a variety of classes that can enrich your stay. These classes not only provide valuable learning experiences but also serve as social hubs where you can connect with both locals and fellow expatriates. Below is a curated list of classes in Vientiane that are suitable for English-speaking adults, ranging from cooking workshops to artistic endeavors.

Tamarind Cooking School

Type of Class(es): Lao Cooking Classes
Location: Ban Wat Nong, Vientiane

At Tamarind Cooking School, you can dive into the flavors of Lao cuisine with hands-on cooking classes. These sessions are designed for both beginners and experienced cooks, offering an opportunity to learn about local ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and the cultural significance of Lao dishes. The classes are conducted in English, making them accessible to expats and digital nomads who are still learning the local language.

Vientiane Language School

Type of Class(es): Lao Language Courses
Location: Samsenthai Road, Vientiane

Vientiane Language School provides Lao language courses tailored to English-speaking adults. The classes range from beginner to advanced levels, allowing you to start learning Lao or improve your existing skills. The school's interactive approach ensures that you'll be able to practice speaking and listening in a supportive environment, which is crucial for language acquisition.

Backstreet Academy

Type of Class(es): Traditional Arts and Crafts Workshops
Location: Various locations in Vientiane

Backstreet Academy offers a unique platform where you can learn traditional Lao arts and crafts from local artisans. Workshops include silk weaving, bamboo weaving, and woodcarving. These classes are not only a great way to develop a new skill but also to gain insight into the rich cultural heritage of Laos. The workshops are conducted in a way that is accommodating to English speakers, with translators often available to facilitate communication.

Caruso Lao

Type of Class(es): Woodworking and Furniture Design
Location: Nokeokoummane Road, Vientiane

Caruso Lao offers classes in woodworking and furniture design, where you can learn from experienced craftsmen. These classes are ideal for those interested in exploring the art of creating beautiful and functional pieces from wood. The sessions are conducted in English, and you'll leave with not only new skills but possibly even a handcrafted item of your own.

Vientiane Wine Tasting Club

Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation
Location: Various venues in Vientiane

The Vientiane Wine Tasting Club is perfect for oenophiles looking to expand their knowledge of wines from around the world. The club organizes regular wine tasting events, often with a focus on a particular region or type of wine. These gatherings are social, educational, and conducted in English, making them a great way to meet other expats and locals with a shared interest in wine.

Full Moon Studio

Type of Class(es): Painting and Drawing
Location: Ban Mixay, Vientiane

Full Moon Studio is a creative space where you can attend painting and drawing classes. These classes cater to all levels, from beginners to more experienced artists, and provide a relaxed atmosphere to explore your creativity. The studio's instructors speak English, ensuring that language barriers won't hinder your artistic expression.

Lao Textile Museum

Type of Class(es): Textile and Dyeing Workshops
Location: Ban Nongtha Tai, Vientiane

The Lao Textile Museum not only showcases the beauty of Lao textiles but also offers workshops where you can learn about traditional dyeing techniques and textile creation. These workshops are a hands-on way to appreciate the intricate art of Lao weaving and are suitable for English speakers interested in textiles and cultural crafts.

Common Ground Cafe & Bakery

Type of Class(es): Baking and Pastry Arts
Location: Samsenthai Road, Vientiane

Common Ground Cafe & Bakery is known for its delicious baked goods and also offers baking classes for those interested in the pastry arts. Whether you want to perfect your bread-making skills or learn how to craft delicate pastries, these classes are conducted in English and provide a tasty and educational experience.

Vientiane Pottery Workshop

Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramics
Location: Ban Naxay, Vientiane

At the Vientiane Pottery Workshop, you can get your hands dirty and learn the art of pottery. These classes teach you the basics of working with clay, from throwing on the wheel to glazing and firing your creations. The workshops are suitable for English speakers and offer a therapeutic and rewarding way to create something with your own hands.

Laos Cooking & Cultural Center

Type of Class(es): Lao Cooking and Culture Classes
Location: Setthathirath Road, Vientiane

The Laos Cooking & Cultural Center combines culinary instruction with cultural insights, making it more than just a cooking class. Here, you can learn to prepare traditional Lao dishes while also gaining an understanding of the cultural context behind the cuisine. The classes are conducted in English, providing an accessible and enriching experience for expats and digital nomads.