Muang Sing + Trekking

Trip Start Jan 06, 2008
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Trip End Dec 20, 2008


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Flag of Lao Peoples Dem Rep  ,
Saturday, April 19, 2008

The journey to Muang Sing took us only 1h30 at the back of a "taxi-bus". The nature is beautiful and we can see only small villages (10 or 12 families) living in bamboo huts. There is a clear harmony between the forest, the animals and the people

The village itself is so calm. In term of modernity, Laos is decades behind Thailand and even India but it is also what makes its charm. People are always smiling at you and the expression "hard work" is surely considered an insult there.

We did a 2 days trek near the Chinese border with Isolda and Danny, a couple from Barcelona met the day before. The first day walking was disapointing, our guide stoping every 15 min because it was too hot - isn't he supposed to be the local guy?!? -. The scenery is again beautiful despite numerous scares on the hills as the tribes burn the jungle to plant rubber trees, sugar canes and rice to be exported to neighbours Chinese.
The evening with the Akha tribe was fantastic: Akha massage + great food + singing with the kids + chill out.
The second day was a lot more difficults with numerous ups and downs. I also think the guide wanted to show us who was in charge, not showing one drop of sweat when we were agonising behind him.
Back at Muang Sing, we had a good evening with our Spanish friends and two Germans, drinking beer and Lao-lao.

Obviously no photos. too long sorry. Will catch up in Hanoi.
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