There are a few places around town to meet and greet other English-speakers. The KhopCaiDeu, on the southwest corner of the Nam Phu Fountain, is the hot spot for expats and travelers, and a good place to find out what's going on in town; often you'll find some good local cover bands. There is also a wine bar, Le Cave de Châteaux, on Fountain Circle; the bar also serves some fine French fare. The Lao Plaza Hotel has a nightclub/disco and a popular beer garden, and on Samsenthai Road just before Novotel, you'll find Wind West on the right and Bamboo Bar on the left side: Called discos, they're a bit grungy but can be fun with the right folks. For live music, try the Chess Café on Sakkaline Road, just off Fa Ngum Road to the east of the hospital when heading toward the Friendship Bridge (away from the airport). Be careful if you're strolling about after dark, though, because Vientiane has a good number of open sewers.