Dan's Adventure

After 2 weeks in Cambodia, relaxing at Si Phan Don (meaning four thousand islands) sounds like the ideal introduction to Laos. On Don Dhet lazing in a hammock seems to be a popular choice, but if that proves to be too strenuous theres always the option to go cycling, kayaking or to seek out the Irrawaddy Dolphins. From here I will be heading north, first to the captial, Vientiane, then on to Vang Vieng.

Vang Vieng is a bit of a backpackers hub where the main theme is to have fun. Whether thats tubing, rock climbing, exploring caves or kayaking, theres lots to do. Tubing sounds like a lazy way to spend a day, floating down the Nam Som, stopping at the bars set up along the riverside and trying out the swings over it. It could be a fun stop for a couple of days.

Luang Prabang is described by UNESCO as “an outstanding example of the fusion of traditional architecture and Lao urban structures with those built by the European colonial authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blending of these two distinct cultural traditions.”. I reckon its definitely worth spending a few days exploring the city and the surrounds.

From Luang Prabang there are a couple of options for my remaining time in Laos both of which end with me reaching Huay Xai to cross the border. The first is to take the slow boat which takes 2 days to sail along the Mekong river, stopping overnight at Pakbeng before reaching Huay Xai. The second is to head to northern Laos and do a bit of trekking around Luang Namtha.

Close to Huay Xai is Bokeo Nature Reserve, home to the Black Crested Gibbon which was once thought to be extinct. The Gibbon Experience offers a unique way to both protect the forest and raise awareness of the endangered wildlife within it. Along with the locals, they have built several tree houses and a network of zip lines through the canopy which allows visitors to get close to the wildlife. It is possible to spend two nights living in the tree tops, sleeping in the tree houses and using the zip lines to explore the canopy. The money generated is reinvested into the protection of the forest. It could be fun to spend new year in the tree tops, even though its more likely that I’ll hear the gibbons than see them.

At Huay Xai Laos immigration is on one side of the Mekong river and Thailand immigration is on the other at Chiang Khong, so I’ll be leaving Laos by boat.