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Trip 01-06: Day 3

Day 3 (8 May)

Woke up afresh with nice scenery outside the room. Vang Vieng is recommended for outdoor activities (kayaking, tubing, rock climbing and caving) given the nature of the surrounding. As we were not into physical activities, a short stay will be fine.

Had an excursion around the river side. Watching students and villagers crossed the river. Had breakfast in one of the river side cafe. Samples lao coffee which was very good indeed. The taste was comparable to Vietnamese coffee.

We proceed our journey to Luang Prabang. Boarded a VIP bus at 10am. Lots of gwailo (farang) were headed to that town. No doubt Luang Prabang is the most visited town in Laos due to its status of UNESCO World Heritage.

The journey to Luang Prabang was about 7 hours. The route was mountainous and winding road. Perhaps this road offers the best scenery. The bus did stop halfway for lunch break and pee time.

By the time we arrived in Luang Prabang, it was around 5pm. Took a ride to the town and searched for accomodation. We got an OK room beside the Mekong river. It was a tiring journey and a shower instantly refreshed.

And it was 7pm when we went out for dinner. There was night market in one of the main street. Most of the traders were selling handicraft stuff. We unintentionally discovered an alley of food stalls. Had a buffect lunch which cost 5,000 kip (about USD0.50). A very satisfying meal.

Decision to fly from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai was scrapped as it was costly. There was no flight to Huay Xai also. So we will leave Luang Prabang on Thursday by slow boat.

End of day 3....
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