Laos summary

Trip Start Mar 03, 2005
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Trip End Apr 08, 2006


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Flag of Lao Peoples Dem Rep  ,
Monday, September 26, 2005

After an early morning boat trip, a four hour ride on the floor of a sawngthaew (during which I missed the closest AFL Grand Final in 16 years) and a ten hour bus ride, I found myself back in Laos' capital, Vientiane. It was still the same sleepy soulless city I'd experienced on my first day in the country, and I was looking forward to returning to Phnom Penh. But what exactly were my thoughts on Laos in a nutshell?

Stunning spectacular scenery was the highlight, beauracracy and pretentious backpackers the lowlight. The people were incredibly friendly, although they didn't seem to have the same warmth and compassion I'd experienced from Khmer people. Perhaps this is because I interact with Khmer people on a daily basis, yet was simply a tourist in Laos. Mystery left me in awe at the Plain of Jars in Phonsavan, and two full day kayaking epics left me exhilarated and exhausted in Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. Trekking was a tough, torrid affair, but living with the Khamu for two days was an experience I'll never forget.

Things just got better and better for me in Laos, the further north I travelled. Vientiane was ok, but uninspiring. Vang Vieng's scenery inspired, but the town lacked character and soul. Phonsavan lacked the amazing limestone karsts, but had a little more to offer in the way of a 3000 year old mystery. Luang Prabang's thousands of palms and hundreds of French villas and pagodas were an odd site in a totally beautiful setting, and a wonderful place to wind down and relax for a few days. My five days in Muang Ngoi was the highlight, thanks to the friendliest people I'd met in Laos, the best scenery, and my best experience in the hill tribe trek. Kuang Xi waterfall, Vieng Xai and Luang Nam Tha have to be left for next time, and Southern Laos is a trip in itself.

All in all, I came back to Phnom Penh refreshed, revitalised, and with a wealth of experience as well as a few hundred photos. I believe Northern Laos has something for everyone!
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