We spend almost a month in Laos, officially named Lao Peoples Democratic Republic (PDR). We loved our time there and spend most if it in the mountainous and slightly cooler north. I put together a tentative itinerary not long before we left Thailand. As usual, it changed frequently as we learned and adapted to suit our […]
Northern Lao, where countries collide like tectonic plates culturally subducting with names like Akha, Hmong, Yunan, Kamu, Shan, Burmese, Chin, Kachin, Karen, Mon, Kmer and Zou. After arriving in Houay Xai, we decided to stay the night at Daauw Home. I wanted to stay here because all profits go to their Woman Empowerment Activities for the […]
Morning mist shrouds the Mekong as we depart Luang Prabang, commencing a two day boat trip to Houey Xai (pronounced “way-say”). We decided not to go on the $30 public boat. They often put more than 100 people on it. I hear the engine noise is deafening if you are unfortunate enough to be in […]
For our second full day (Tuesday) in Luang Prabang, we visited Kuang Xi Falls. This is accomplished by a 30 minute yuk tuk ride (some do it on scooters and bicycles) through lovely green countryside steadily climbing the hills. 20,000 kip gets you into the park, about US$2.50. From there paths lead past a bear rescue […]
I don’t normally eat a lot of bread but this town has some fantastic French bakeries. It is hard to resist fresh croissants in the morning, still warm from the oven. The chocolate ones are incredible as are the traditional type. We arrived from Chiang Mai on Easter Sunday evening via a Lao […]
Bicycling Can Be Dangerous to Your Health I always strive to be honest with my readers and today is no exception. Due to the injury to my left (and dominant) hand, it will be a slow process to write this and I will go for brevity. I left Chiang Mai, Thailand on Monday for a […]