Champasak, Laos
Wat Phu is the most important ancient historical site in Laos. Constructed in the 9th century, it was a holy site for Hinduism and later Buddhism. Today, the temple is in considerable disrepair relative to historical sites in other countries. But for Laos, it’s in better shape than most. GETTING THERE and MONEY EXCHANGE Coming [...]
Muang Saen, Laos
Accommodation is found on 3 of the 4000 islands in the Si Phan Don region of Laos near the Cambodian border. We departed Champasak in the morning intending to reach Don Det Island. The public bus on this day terminated on Don Khong Island in the town of Muang Saen, 2 hours north of Don [...]
Vientiane, Laos
Vientiane has little to see, but it’s a major tourist layover point. Those coming from Thailand across the Friendship Bridge just south of Vientiane are exhausted from numerous bus-boat-truck connections required to reach the city. Those coming from Luang Prabang and other northern points are exhausted from cramped 12+ hour bus rides down nauseating mountain [...]
Veng Vieng, Laos
Limestone Caves Vang Vieng is like summer camp for adults. The guidebooks tell of limestone caves, but the most popular activities are floating downstream on an inflated rubber tube, drinking beer, and techno-pop music. The big kids between ages 18-50 just hang out for days in Vang Vieng. The sun sets over the Nam Song [...]
Luang Prabang, Laos
Under a decade ago, Luang Prabang was nearly isolated from outside influence. The rare traveler with special government permission could arrive by flight or boat. Life in Luang Prabang continued as it had for centuries. 10 years ago, the Lao government began promoting tourism, issuing a tourist visa to anyone. A road connecting Vientiane to [...]
Phongsali, Laos
The highlight of Laos is a trek through the jungle to primitive hill tribe villages. The most popular treks originate in Luang Nam Tha and Muang Sing. These cities have trekking guide associations, brochures, and high prices. The northernmost province of Phongsali, on the other hand, has fewer tourists, less infrastructure, and maybe a more [...]
Vientien, Laos
Here’s my report for my two-day vacation in Laos. Vientien is the Capital City along the Mekong River. From Bangkok, I took Lao Airways, 6900 Baht (about $172) Round Trip. Taxi from the airport to the hotel is about $5-$6. There are many hotels and guest houses anywhere from the $15 to $35 range.
