Developed in Provence a century ago, pétanque is popular throughout the former French Indochina. The sport resembles lawn bowling, but without the lawn, and without the footwork — both feet are planted during the throw. In the words of the T-shirt worn by the player at right, "same same but different." Also shown: another Provençal transplant, neaby, with a less than traditional menu.
Provence in Vientiane
From a November 2006 visit to the capital of Laos
