tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15602127730635736742024-03-05T08:08:26.682-08:00One Month in Laos<b><a href="http://goseenihon.blogspot.com/">JAPAN</a> ❂
<a href="http://wanderaboot.blogspot.com/">TAIWAN+</a> ❂
<a href="http://arghchina.blogspot.com/">CHINA</a> ❂
<a href="http://goseethailand.blogspot.com/">THAILAND</a> ❂
<a href="http://angkorruins.blogspot.com/">Angkor Wat</a> ❂
<a href="http://seetheamericas.blogspot.com">the Americas</a> ❂
<a href="http://emiratesgo.blogspot.com/">UAE</a></b>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-25404960435794765532014-04-07T18:00:00.001-07:002014-04-08T01:39:19.590-07:00Highlights<blockquote>
We stayed in Laos for a month, living a <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/budget.html">mid-range</a> lifestyle - trying not to spend too much while still doing some fun touristy things. Instead of rushing to more places, we chose to stay at each town for longer to explore it in depth. Usually we booked accommodation online for a few nights then looked for a place to stay for longer in person. Use the tabs above ⇪ or the <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/site-map.html"><b>site map</b></a> to help you easily navigate the site. All the activities and sights are listed in the order of favorite to just okay. There is relevant information based on our experiences to hopefully help you with your travels :)
</blockquote>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/kuang-si-waterfall.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRQg2q6FZLg/Uwh-ZlkfprI/AAAAAAAAFwk/znai-cuS71o/s320/RIMG0122.JPG" /><br><font size="-1"><b>Most gorgeous waterfall in the world!</b></font></a>
</td>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/tad-thong-waterfall.html"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvWda_-UX4s/UwdDAnAU6RI/AAAAAAAAFtk/VMZNsx-wkiI/s320/RIMG0040.JPG" /><br><font size="-1"><b>Free personal huts by a quiet lake</b></font></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/lusi-cave.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ApCnSoUeYhM/UxUjvv2Q6mI/AAAAAAAAGEo/NUAvBnuOUiA/s320/RIMG0054.JPG" /><br><font size="-1"><b>Unexplored pitch black cave!</b></font></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/buddha-park.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCs3R3VnaE/UyOunaAr-aI/AAAAAAAAGXE/5lscciNjJXE/s320/RIMG0090.JPG" /><br><font size="-1"><b>Weirdest Buddha gathering</b></font></a></td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/budget.html"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HwptUxeXex8/UwVunLk8HEI/AAAAAAAAFfs/h1SLztKXwtc/s400/RIMG0001a.jpg" /><br><font size="-1"><b>How much money to bring...</b></font></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/food.html"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Sx79alL9DKw/Uw88PiV-3YI/AAAAAAAAF4g/SvWbg-8j2c0/s400/RIMG0010+%25282%2529.JPG" /><br><font size="-1"><b>Yummy things to eat</b></font></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-30565029088728599682014-03-16T07:49:00.001-07:002014-04-08T01:39:51.473-07:00Site Map<blockquote>
We stayed in Laos for a month, living a <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/budget.html">mid-range</a> lifestyle - trying not to spend too much while still doing some fun touristy things. Instead of rushing to more places, we chose to stay at each town for longer to explore it in depth. Usually we booked accommodation online for a few nights then looked for a place to stay for longer in person. Use the tabs above ⇪ or this <b>site map</b> to help you easily navigate the site. All the activities and sights are listed in the order of favorite to just okay. There is relevant information based on our experiences to hopefully help you with your travels :)
</blockquote>
<table width="100%" align="center"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#1e2063">
<font color="#ffffff"><b> </b></font>
</td></tr></table>
<br>
<div align="center"><font size="+2" color="#1E90FF">
<b>☆ <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/04/highlights.html">Highlights</a> ☆</b>
</font></div>
<br>
<table width="100%" align="center"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#1e2063">
<font color="#ffffff"><b> </b></font>
</td></tr></table>
<br>
<div align="center"><font size="+2">
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/budget.html">Budget</a></b>
<font color="#1E90FF"><b>●</b></font>
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/food.html">Food</a></b>
<font color="#1E90FF"><b>●</b></font>
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/annoyances.html">Annoyances</a></b>
<font color="#1E90FF"><b>●</b></font>
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/curious-photos.html">Curious PHOTOS</a></b>
</font></div>
<br>
<font size="-1" color="#1E90FF"><div align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/luang-prabang-to-vang-vieng.html"><b>Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/luang-prabang-to-vientiane.html"><b>Luang Prabang to Vientiane</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng-to.html"><b>Vang Vieng to Vientiane</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinchiangmai.blogspot.com/p/boat-to-luang-prabang.html"><b>Slow Boat from Chiang Mai</b></a>
</font></div>
<br>
<table width="100%" align="center"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#1e2063">
<font color="#ffffff"><b>L U A N G P R A B A N G</b></font>
</td></tr></table>
<br>
<div align="center"><font size="+2">
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/luang-prabang.html">Luang Prabang</a></b>
</font></div>
<font size="-1" color="#1E90FF"><div align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/kuang-si-waterfall.html"><b>Kuang Si Falls</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/tad-thong-waterfall.html"><b>Tad Thong Waterfalls</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/phousi-hill.html"><b>Phousi Hill</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/wat-xieng-thong.html"><b>Wat Xieng Thong</b></a>
<br>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/bamboo-bridges.html"><b>bamboo bridges</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/old-bridge.html"><b>Old Bridge</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/markets.html"><b>Morning / Night Market</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/sonphao-lao-cultural-dance.html"><b>traditional dance</b></a>
<br><b>Accommodation : </b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/sopha-house.html"><b>Sopha House</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/phongboun-guesthouse.html"><b>Phongboun Guesthouse</b></a>
</font></div>
<br>
<table width="100%" align="center"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#1e2063">
<font color="#ffffff"><b>V A N G V I E N G</b></font>
</td></tr></table>
<br>
<div align="center"><font size="+2">
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng.html">Vang Vieng</a></b>
<font color="#1E90FF"><b>●</b></font>
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng-attractions.html">Attractions</a></b>
</font></div>
<font size="-1" color="#1E90FF"><div align="center">
<b>→</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng.html#cost"><b>Prices</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng.html#do"><b>Activities</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng.html#getout"><b>Getting elsewhere</b></a> <b>●</b>
<b>Accommodation : </b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/lao-haven.html"><b>Lao Haven</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/maylyn-guest-house.html"><b>Maylyn Guest House</b></a>
<br>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/phu-kham-cave.html"><b>Blue Lagoon & Phu Kham Cave</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/lusi-cave.html"><b>Lusi Cave</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/pha-poak-mountain.html"><b>Pha Poak Mountain</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/cave-chang.html"><b>Jang Cave</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/tubing.html"><b>Tubing</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/west-vang-vieng-loop.html"><b>Vang Vieng West Loop</b></a>
</font></div>
<br>
<table width="100%" align="center"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#1e2063">
<font color="#ffffff"><b>V I E N T I A N E</b></font>
</td></tr></table>
<br>
<div align="center"><font size="+2">
<b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vientiane.html">Vientiane</a></b>
</font></div>
<font size="-1" color="#1E90FF"><div align="center">
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/buddha-park.html"><b>Buddha Park</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/patuxai.html"><b>Patuxai</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/pha-that-luang.html"><b>Pha That Luang</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/haw-phra-kaew.html"><b>Haw Phra Kaew</b></a> <b>|</b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/wat-si-saket.html"><b>Wat Si Saket</b></a> <b>●</b>
<b>Accommodation : </b>
<a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/mixay-paradise.html"><b>Mixay Paradise</b></a>
</font></div>
<br>
<table width="100%" align="center"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#1e2063">
<font color="#ffffff"><b> </b></font>
</td></tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-30795626405655559672014-03-14T17:53:00.001-07:002014-03-14T20:18:27.726-07:00Haw Phra Kaew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xunAMBJuLI/UyO6hgv7YVI/AAAAAAAAGZU/zZTcM5U4FUQ/s1600/RIMG0209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2xunAMBJuLI/UyO6hgv7YVI/AAAAAAAAGZU/zZTcM5U4FUQ/s640/RIMG0209.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oaWRuNp0xWk/UyO6V8t_EWI/AAAAAAAAGZM/t5X7goZTOf0/s1600/RIMG0193.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oaWRuNp0xWk/UyO6V8t_EWI/AAAAAAAAGZM/t5X7goZTOf0/s200/RIMG0193.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<b>Haw Phra Kaew</b>, across from <b>Wat Si Saket</b> used to house the <a href="http://goseethailand.blogspot.com/2014/02/wat-phra-kaew.html">Emerald Budhha</a> now in <a href="http://goseethailand.blogspot.com/p/bangkok.html">Bangkok</a>. The temple is small with intricate carvings and beautiful columns, as well as bronze Buddha statues outside. It costs <b>5000 kip</b> and you probably only need <b>less than 20 minutes</b> here. Opens from <b>8 am to 4 pm</b>, with a lunch break from noon to 1 pm.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FZ6sf8iUuRI/UyO585ywRgI/AAAAAAAAGY8/e4d5Jeu17Aw/s1600/RIMG0199.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FZ6sf8iUuRI/UyO585ywRgI/AAAAAAAAGY8/e4d5Jeu17Aw/s400/RIMG0199.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RVHtBSBpwnk/UyO6WZ03kWI/AAAAAAAAGZI/sEoCFF9OkuE/s1600/RIMG0191.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RVHtBSBpwnk/UyO6WZ03kWI/AAAAAAAAGZI/sEoCFF9OkuE/s400/RIMG0191.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-14983298113612964932014-03-14T17:52:00.001-07:002014-03-14T20:18:34.565-07:00Wat Si Saket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4p9VbtcbBak/UyO3DDtjsOI/AAAAAAAAGYM/peZ0ceetLf0/s1600/RIMG0166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4p9VbtcbBak/UyO3DDtjsOI/AAAAAAAAGYM/peZ0ceetLf0/s640/RIMG0166.JPG" /></a></div>
<b>Wat Si Saket</b>, across from <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/haw-phra-kaew.html">Haw Phra Kaew</a></b>, is a small Buddhist temple built in 1818 that hasn't been destroyed by the Siamese. Walls surrounding the tmeple showcase 2000+ Buddha statues, small and large. <b>30 minutes</b> here will likely be more than enough. Opens from <b>8 am to 4 pm</b>, with a lunch break from noon to 1 pm.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wEWWx0beMk/UyO3YSn3JGI/AAAAAAAAGYg/ENBy82TFPQU/s1600/RIMG0176.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5wEWWx0beMk/UyO3YSn3JGI/AAAAAAAAGYg/ENBy82TFPQU/s320/RIMG0176.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtICBYRnPGA/UyO3YG-GQtI/AAAAAAAAGYY/7UudM-ccon0/s1600/RIMG0169.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NtICBYRnPGA/UyO3YG-GQtI/AAAAAAAAGYY/7UudM-ccon0/s320/RIMG0169.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8mcIxBRhCNI/UyO3zco8uzI/AAAAAAAAGYw/8qnrA7baEh8/s1600/RIMG0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8mcIxBRhCNI/UyO3zco8uzI/AAAAAAAAGYw/8qnrA7baEh8/s400/RIMG0173.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UyUL0iEhRoo/UyO3zLmPTRI/AAAAAAAAGYs/M_2okjBGtFA/s1600/RIMG0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UyUL0iEhRoo/UyO3zLmPTRI/AAAAAAAAGYs/M_2okjBGtFA/s400/RIMG0168.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-9883187074331015272014-03-14T17:49:00.001-07:002015-08-17T16:11:56.350-07:00Buddha Park<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCs3R3VnaE/UyOunaAr-aI/AAAAAAAAGXE/5lscciNjJXE/s1600/RIMG0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UKCs3R3VnaE/UyOunaAr-aI/AAAAAAAAGXE/5lscciNjJXE/s640/RIMG0090.JPG" /></a></div>
Built in 1958, <b>Buddha Park</b>, or <b>Wat Xieng Khuan</b>, is <b>25 km southeast</b> of <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vientiane.html"><b>Vientiane</b></a> by Mekong River, a <b>40-minute car ride</b> with the last 10 minutes on a dusty dirt road. It's more like a <b>sculpture park</b> that's not very big but bizarrely interesting - we spent just <b>under an hour</b> there, which was more than enough time. It costs <b>5000 kip</b> to get in, with an additional <b>3000 kip for</b> each <b>camera</b>.
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUPF9yMuqqE/UyOtNmG0woI/AAAAAAAAGW0/k816KvvnoaU/s1600/RIMG0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nUPF9yMuqqE/UyOtNmG0woI/AAAAAAAAGW0/k816KvvnoaU/s200/RIMG0064.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
We read online that you can take <b>bus 14</b> from the bus station for <b>6000 kip</b> then transfer on a tuk tuk, but we didn't want the hassle — so we asked some <b>tuk tuk</b> drivers, who quoted <b>195,000 to 300,000 kip for a return trip</b> while showing us their ridiculously expensive "official" laminated price list. No way.
<br><br>
We ended up hiring <b>a new private air-conditioned sedan with a driver</b> from <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/mixay-paradise.html">our hotel</a> for <b>165,000 kip</b>. It's been a while since we rode in a nice vehicle — even though it was just a Kia, it felt utterly luxurious with its red and black leather interior.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBgqlRTrVak/UyO0NJ2uvtI/AAAAAAAAGX8/XNfRTpu6Mdo/s1600/RIMG0118.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zBgqlRTrVak/UyO0NJ2uvtI/AAAAAAAAGX8/XNfRTpu6Mdo/s400/RIMG0118.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8IFzSegApdw/UyOzKQGNpmI/AAAAAAAAGXc/BjRf-Zr_24w/s1600/RIMG0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8IFzSegApdw/UyOzKQGNpmI/AAAAAAAAGXc/BjRf-Zr_24w/s400/RIMG0068.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzAzi35ODCs/UyOz7YLEXyI/AAAAAAAAGXs/EdWz4hhkrx8/s1600/RIMG0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzAzi35ODCs/UyOz7YLEXyI/AAAAAAAAGXs/EdWz4hhkrx8/s320/RIMG0106.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-307HB0R7BKc/UyOy5ylPikI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/IXRd6IQOVOk/s1600/P1080890.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-307HB0R7BKc/UyOy5ylPikI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/IXRd6IQOVOk/s320/P1080890.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYkbaZTaf_A/UyO0P0j4OsI/AAAAAAAAGYE/YsWHe2Ee4to/s1600/P1080953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYkbaZTaf_A/UyO0P0j4OsI/AAAAAAAAGYE/YsWHe2Ee4to/s640/P1080953.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GWTOqJD5-1U/UyOz_e2OPxI/AAAAAAAAGX0/rWmNiCwbtgs/s1600/RIMG0125.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GWTOqJD5-1U/UyOz_e2OPxI/AAAAAAAAGX0/rWmNiCwbtgs/s400/RIMG0125.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fWVPym23w0/UyOzKs2rJrI/AAAAAAAAGXg/NirdemMdGsI/s1600/P1080900.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7fWVPym23w0/UyOzKs2rJrI/AAAAAAAAGXg/NirdemMdGsI/s400/P1080900.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-70946686064070819992014-03-13T18:02:00.001-07:002014-03-16T07:49:30.188-07:00Pha That Luang<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPgkLcDaWN8/UyJQdPFV6KI/AAAAAAAAGVo/ujBNVbFvg0g/s1600/RIMG0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fPgkLcDaWN8/UyJQdPFV6KI/AAAAAAAAGVo/ujBNVbFvg0g/s640/RIMG0155.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mEmXdJTpe-I/UyJQuYFyeaI/AAAAAAAAGWA/RusAkmrf8RA/s1600/RIMG0198.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mEmXdJTpe-I/UyJQuYFyeaI/AAAAAAAAGWA/RusAkmrf8RA/s200/RIMG0198.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<b>Pha That Luang</b>, a giant golden Buddhist mound recognized as the most important national monument in Laos, is a straight-forward <b>half-an-hour walk</b> from <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/patuxai.html">Patuxai</a></b>, <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vientiane.html">Vientiane</a>'s Arc de Triomphe. You can see it from the outside, but it costs <b>5000 kip</b> to see the gold stupa up close. Lower your expectations as the stupa looks nice enough but probably needs some upkeep.
<br><br>
The <b>free temple</b> next to it with a <b>golden reclining Buddha</b> has very <b>interesting murals</b> and locals sleeping and hanging out inside.
<br><br>
The other more impressive-looking building is rather empty.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qC5ClQFYEro/UyJQk0strRI/AAAAAAAAGV0/vS5qw2nSchI/s1600/RIMG0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qC5ClQFYEro/UyJQk0strRI/AAAAAAAAGV0/vS5qw2nSchI/s320/RIMG0162.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tyZsB0HFrpP0hMcrOonSB1XQgMfHATxHlLO2UtmdKRjySPZl-Zqqmydvb7fAWRK8StDRjYqN-RjbRwh45Tj7AbeFBPomKNkh_VigW2NfjaEMWv7EPtVXBIBpfe9cK5X5l5V1da1UDqfd/s1600/RIMG0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tyZsB0HFrpP0hMcrOonSB1XQgMfHATxHlLO2UtmdKRjySPZl-Zqqmydvb7fAWRK8StDRjYqN-RjbRwh45Tj7AbeFBPomKNkh_VigW2NfjaEMWv7EPtVXBIBpfe9cK5X5l5V1da1UDqfd/s320/RIMG0174.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bpIZQ-E8c94/UyJQygU8CtI/AAAAAAAAGWI/jP7YGr0QPFg/s1600/RIMG0199.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bpIZQ-E8c94/UyJQygU8CtI/AAAAAAAAGWI/jP7YGr0QPFg/s640/RIMG0199.JPG" /></a></div>
There are motorcycle ice cream carts helping to relieve the heat. Being 37℃, It was way too hot to walk an hour in the sun back to <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/mixay-paradise.html"><b>our hotel near Wat Mixay</b></a> so we took a <b>tuk tuk</b>, which took <b>less than 30 minutes</b> and cost <b>20,000 kip</b>.redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-36745778724613486762014-03-13T18:01:00.002-07:002014-03-13T18:20:51.921-07:00Patuxai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GEJvmFuXo3I/UyJP9CkaBBI/AAAAAAAAGU4/sgBaCIgJWiA/s1600/RIMG0079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GEJvmFuXo3I/UyJP9CkaBBI/AAAAAAAAGU4/sgBaCIgJWiA/s640/RIMG0079.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H5bSTf6butM/UyJRkEOz9XI/AAAAAAAAGWU/6PjIgi0e2jE/s1600/RIMG0063.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H5bSTf6butM/UyJRkEOz9XI/AAAAAAAAGWU/6PjIgi0e2jE/s200/RIMG0063.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zzRf-mOK0LI/UyJPvk_pbSI/AAAAAAAAGUo/-0Y_qD8R_qA/s1600/RIMG0070.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zzRf-mOK0LI/UyJPvk_pbSI/AAAAAAAAGUo/-0Y_qD8R_qA/s200/RIMG0070.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9KMokR4Eu8U/UyJPvmhPnOI/AAAAAAAAGUk/nmTDbuKB3uI/s1600/RIMG0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9KMokR4Eu8U/UyJPvmhPnOI/AAAAAAAAGUk/nmTDbuKB3uI/s200/RIMG0071.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ItrEJeRXA8/UyJP0jbOs7I/AAAAAAAAGUw/LQtrXXAaL0E/s1600/RIMG0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ItrEJeRXA8/UyJP0jbOs7I/AAAAAAAAGUw/LQtrXXAaL0E/s200/RIMG0078.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<b>Patuxai</b> or <b>Patuxay</b>, <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vientiane.html">Vientiane</a>'s Arc de Triomphe, costs <b>3000 kip</b> to go up for a <b>decent view</b> of the surrounding area. The structure itself, although probably requiring some finishing touches, is nice enough if you don't look too closely.
<br><br>
It's an another <b>30-minute walk</b> to <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/pha-that-luang.html">Pha That Luang</a></b>, a giant golden Buddhist mound known as the most important national monument in Laos.
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5QfSqZCb6Rg/UyJP_9vJY3I/AAAAAAAAGVA/t-KAvGF3l8w/s1600/RIMG0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5QfSqZCb6Rg/UyJP_9vJY3I/AAAAAAAAGVA/t-KAvGF3l8w/s640/RIMG0086.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LR4jwoLKnZY/UyJQH1GS4eI/AAAAAAAAGVQ/Bot4jsHre-w/s1600/RIMG0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LR4jwoLKnZY/UyJQH1GS4eI/AAAAAAAAGVQ/Bot4jsHre-w/s320/RIMG0106.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5rh3yAa8Yns/UyJQBFKwBjI/AAAAAAAAGVI/s2gdIvaYX4E/s1600/RIMG0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5rh3yAa8Yns/UyJQBFKwBjI/AAAAAAAAGVI/s2gdIvaYX4E/s320/RIMG0093.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3gYQ-Git63M/UyJQOuv2rXI/AAAAAAAAGVg/ylFyOCckCMQ/s1600/RIMG0112.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3gYQ-Git63M/UyJQOuv2rXI/AAAAAAAAGVg/ylFyOCckCMQ/s400/RIMG0112.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1SO25TI734/UyJQNl1h7KI/AAAAAAAAGVY/_YARBU6Ffu4/s1600/RIMG0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j1SO25TI734/UyJQNl1h7KI/AAAAAAAAGVY/_YARBU6Ffu4/s400/RIMG0108.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-15581494082016605252014-03-12T17:12:00.000-07:002014-03-27T10:56:17.187-07:00Mixay Paradise<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skUiblIf2Dw/UyD2mZ4ohOI/AAAAAAAAGSw/ki43MWHWJhQ/s1600/RIMG0049.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise email" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-skUiblIf2Dw/UyD2mZ4ohOI/AAAAAAAAGSw/ki43MWHWJhQ/s320/RIMG0049.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_ukqk7mcJ0/UyD2fRqPAVI/AAAAAAAAGSo/RROvoA1vFHQ/s1600/RIMG0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise map" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-W_ukqk7mcJ0/UyD2fRqPAVI/AAAAAAAAGSo/RROvoA1vFHQ/s320/RIMG0048.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X7uojO1Yt8g/UyEbw_Uv_yI/AAAAAAAAGTw/q8Zg9eq6TSA/s1600/RIMG0057+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X7uojO1Yt8g/UyEbw_Uv_yI/AAAAAAAAGTw/q8Zg9eq6TSA/s200/RIMG0057+(2).JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g293950-d1904218-Reviews-Mixay_Paradise-Vientiane_Vientiane_Province.html" target="new"><b>Mixay Paradise</b></a> in <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vientiane.html">Vientiane</a></b> is very close to the <b>city center drop off point</b> of tuk tuks driving passengers from the <b>Northern Bus Station</b> where <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng-to.html">buses from Vang Vieng to Vientiane</a> stop.
<br><br>
Located on <b>Francois Ngin</b> just off of <b>Setthathilath Road</b> by <b>Wat Mixay</b>, it's a short walk to the <b>Night Market along the Mekong River</b> and other attractions. A <b>currency exchange place</b> is just around the corner. There are many cafes and restaurants to choose from, although the <b>restaurant in the lobby</b> offers many main dishes at <b>15,000 kip</b>. The food is not amazing but it's acceptable.
<br><br>
Booking through email ( <b><a href="mailto:laomixayparadise@yahoo.com">laomixayparadise@yahoo.com</a></b> ), we got an <b>air-con double room with an ensuite bathroom</b> for <b>120,000 kip</b> a night.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" width="640">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yGEqufbm_d0/UyD16NcQqhI/AAAAAAAAGSQ/CN6QJvEso7g/s1600/RIMG0045.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise room" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yGEqufbm_d0/UyD16NcQqhI/AAAAAAAAGSQ/CN6QJvEso7g/s320/RIMG0045.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LCh2lOH1hZk/UyD2XVhcToI/AAAAAAAAGSg/DlfR4NpTpIk/s1600/RIMG0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise double room" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LCh2lOH1hZk/UyD2XVhcToI/AAAAAAAAGSg/DlfR4NpTpIk/s320/RIMG0047.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
Our room is <b>naturally lit</b> and <b>clean</b> but <b>very small</b>, with barely any space to walk. Equipped with both a <b>fan and</b> an <b>air-conditioner</b>, the room is cool and comfortable. Although you can hear street noises outside, it's fairly quiet most of the time. It's a <b>smoke-free</b> building and <b>many house rules</b> apply. Despite the stated hours when wifi's available (9 am-11:30 pm), <b>wifi actually works all the time</b>, although it's <b>painfully slow</b> most of the time - nearby cafes tend to have a faster connection.
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EKMHrhPQjgg/UyD1e-9D-WI/AAAAAAAAGSI/W9ildKPyVzI/s1600/RIMG0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise corridor" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EKMHrhPQjgg/UyD1e-9D-WI/AAAAAAAAGSI/W9ildKPyVzI/s320/RIMG0044.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BecGat2LAQM/UyD277bnikI/AAAAAAAAGTA/1eUPjroAsLc/s1600/RIMG0053.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise shared balcony" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BecGat2LAQM/UyD277bnikI/AAAAAAAAGTA/1eUPjroAsLc/s320/RIMG0053.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" width="650">
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
The <b>shower's strong and hot</b>, something pretty hard to come by in this part of the world. Also, <b>liquid soap is provided</b>. <b>Free orange drink, tea, and coffee</b> are available <b>in the lobby from 10 am to 5 pm</b>. <b>Same-day laundry</b> is <b>10,000 kip per kilo</b>.
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2PFygOODEs/UyD19zR7UwI/AAAAAAAAGSY/YL76HIAOfq4/s1600/RIMG0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="300" alt="Mixay Paradise bathroom" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2PFygOODEs/UyD19zR7UwI/AAAAAAAAGSY/YL76HIAOfq4/s320/RIMG0046.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q6WFfP7u5Fs/UyD1e9NnvpI/AAAAAAAAGSE/wL8-Abvy3EA/s1600/RIMG0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="Mixay Paradise room rates" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q6WFfP7u5Fs/UyD1e9NnvpI/AAAAAAAAGSE/wL8-Abvy3EA/s400/RIMG0040.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CoXaN0lu0b8/UyD3JNIcN0I/AAAAAAAAGTI/a3_BV56LR10/s1600/RIMG0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Wat Mixay from Mixay Paradise balcony" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CoXaN0lu0b8/UyD3JNIcN0I/AAAAAAAAGTI/a3_BV56LR10/s320/RIMG0055.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BP8vZ25zfGc/UyD3u9QWS4I/AAAAAAAAGTU/s2PZniU6dzs/s1600/RIMG0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="view from Mixay Paradise balcony" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BP8vZ25zfGc/UyD3u9QWS4I/AAAAAAAAGTU/s2PZniU6dzs/s320/RIMG0058.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMdrS1axmbM/UyW5GFIqK2I/AAAAAAAAGZg/9HfEabldv24/s1600/RIMG0209.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WMdrS1axmbM/UyW5GFIqK2I/AAAAAAAAGZg/9HfEabldv24/s200/RIMG0209.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<b>Bus tickets</b> to <b>Laos</b>, <b>Cambodia</b>, and <b>Thailand</b> are <b>sold at reception</b>. Reception also arranges cars with drivers - they carged us <b>165,000 kip</b> for a return trip to <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/buddha-park.html">Buddha Park</a></b> in a new private air-conditioned sedan. <b>Minivan to the airport</b> takes <b>10 minutes</b> and costs <b>45,000 kip per car</b>.
<br><br>
There are <b>bicycles for rent for 10,000 kip a day</b> down the street but you need to leave your <b>passport</b> as a deposit. <b>Motorcycles</b> for rent are also available for <b>60,000 kip a day</b> just down the street.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xn4mjJmzU68/UyEZMAnuqKI/AAAAAAAAGTk/cfZYEC3eZpI/s1600/RIMG0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Xn4mjJmzU68/UyEZMAnuqKI/AAAAAAAAGTk/cfZYEC3eZpI/s640/RIMG0058.JPG" /></a>
</td></tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-84294287825963751482014-03-11T06:53:00.001-07:002017-09-11T21:35:31.753-07:00Pha Poak Mountain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CAEkOIl6EA/Ux-OBsrwPnI/AAAAAAAAGQo/dRFpvUITmNA/s1600/RIMG0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CAEkOIl6EA/Ux-OBsrwPnI/AAAAAAAAGQo/dRFpvUITmNA/s640/RIMG0047.JPG"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="665">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dhuqmx9gxpc/Ux-NovPWxPI/AAAAAAAAGQg/VQAHr0s-jLA/s1600/P1080720.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dhuqmx9gxpc/Ux-NovPWxPI/AAAAAAAAGQg/VQAHr0s-jLA/s320/P1080720.JPG"></a>
</td>
<td>
It takes less than <b>15 minutes to walk</b> from the west side of the free bridge to <b>Pha Poak Cave/Mountain</b>, which has an admission fee of <b>10,000 kip</b>, collected by some pretty random looking guys.
<br><br>
<b>Another 15 minutes of properly climbing</b> sketchy ladders and rocks with sharp edges takes you to the top with a <b>spectacular view of surrounding mountains, streams, and rice paddies</b>. Probably not the safest but worth the climb! Wear sensible shoes and watch your footing. The top is quite small so it's best not to have too many people around.
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qanS-qmTBxU/Ux-Nb5SFykI/AAAAAAAAGQY/grliPuE5aFc/s1600/Fotor031250558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qanS-qmTBxU/Ux-Nb5SFykI/AAAAAAAAGQY/grliPuE5aFc/s640/Fotor031250558.jpg"></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" border="0" width="600">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1MjNAjKoCg/Ux-OF3OSEfI/AAAAAAAAGQw/iwCdxlnILnU/s1600/RIMG0060.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F1MjNAjKoCg/Ux-OF3OSEfI/AAAAAAAAGQw/iwCdxlnILnU/s400/RIMG0060.JPG"></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfy4gfQMA3k/Ux-ONnoMN6I/AAAAAAAAGQ4/_HGrNTZZeAw/s1600/RIMG0118.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hfy4gfQMA3k/Ux-ONnoMN6I/AAAAAAAAGQ4/_HGrNTZZeAw/s400/RIMG0118.JPG"></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr><td colspan="2">
The <b>way down took us 25 minutes</b>, a big longer but not nearly as difficult as I imagined it would be. If you want to explore the "cave", it won't take more than 3 minutes as there isn't really much to see. You can keep on walking along the path to <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/lusi-cave.html"><b>Lusi Cave</b></a></b>, a proper cave.
</td></tr>
</table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ur1TImHoxaw/Ux-NWtk3C2I/AAAAAAAAGQQ/TFUfMm9l2VY/s640/Fotor03125192.jpg"></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhBRArHGzFg/Ux-Oi9xnWvI/AAAAAAAAGRA/ITioJbWI3LE/s1600/RIMG0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhBRArHGzFg/Ux-Oi9xnWvI/AAAAAAAAGRA/ITioJbWI3LE/s320/RIMG0150.JPG"></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d0Xoi9WDbq4/Ux-Oos4rIAI/AAAAAAAAGRI/kRzuYG7V-vQ/s1600/RIMG0147.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d0Xoi9WDbq4/Ux-Oos4rIAI/AAAAAAAAGRI/kRzuYG7V-vQ/s320/RIMG0147.JPG"></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-37788858018834612002014-03-08T15:18:00.000-08:002014-03-15T19:48:52.926-07:00West Vang Vieng Loop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ySiVWnda3U/UxujEH-8QrI/AAAAAAAAGOo/r4mJwddNGW8/s1600/RIMG0186.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="Vang Vieng Western Loop" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ySiVWnda3U/UxujEH-8QrI/AAAAAAAAGOo/r4mJwddNGW8/s640/RIMG0186.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="660">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_-3eT_9NU7k/UxuiZgZF8GI/AAAAAAAAGNo/NuoPy8PZVRw/s1600/RIMG0151.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_-3eT_9NU7k/UxuiZgZF8GI/AAAAAAAAGNo/NuoPy8PZVRw/s200/RIMG0151.JPG" /></a>
<br>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4nEL9o1cLQw/UxvmJ7LLspI/AAAAAAAAGO8/cq1ZL9OoGoE/s1600/P1080643a.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="West Loop Vang Vieng" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4nEL9o1cLQw/UxvmJ7LLspI/AAAAAAAAGO8/cq1ZL9OoGoE/s200/P1080643a.jpg" /></a>
</td>
<td>
After cycling to <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/phu-kham-cave.html"><b>Phu Kham Cave</b> and <b>Blue Lagoon</b></a>, we continued on the <b>Western Loop</b> (<b>over 30 km</b>) on our multi-speed Giant <b>mountain bikes</b> rented from <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/maylyn-guest-house.html">Maylyn Guesthouse</a>.
<br><br>
It took us less than <b>3 hours</b> (closer to <b>2 hours without breaks</b>) on pretty flat but <b>bumpy dirt roads</b>, through villages and farms with gorgeous mountains in the backdrop. Along the way, there are <b>a few caves</b> as well as <b>local shops selling water and snacks</b>.
<br><br>
It was a scenic ride but your bum and hands might hurt from the <b>nonstop jiggling motion</b>. Also, anytime any vehicle passes by, it will kick up a lot of <b>dust</b> for half a minute each time.
<br><br>
The route is pretty straight forward but <b><a href="http://hobomaps.com/VangViengAreaMap.html" target="new">Hobo Map</a></b> is good to have.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-orFEGceLbaM/UxuiRs08qaI/AAAAAAAAGNY/8SWf4jqrqXg/s1600/RIMG0150.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Western Vang Vieng Loop" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-orFEGceLbaM/UxuiRs08qaI/AAAAAAAAGNY/8SWf4jqrqXg/s320/RIMG0150.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-63Z1KrcJX-4/UxuifRiBs3I/AAAAAAAAGNw/F64ELFwvnuY/s1600/RIMG0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-63Z1KrcJX-4/UxuifRiBs3I/AAAAAAAAGNw/F64ELFwvnuY/s320/RIMG0155.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-cSb6g-Z8g/UxuippmoZ8I/AAAAAAAAGN4/4DYEYwFW7l0/s1600/RIMG0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-n-cSb6g-Z8g/UxuippmoZ8I/AAAAAAAAGN4/4DYEYwFW7l0/s640/RIMG0160.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DxeKUU-0-W0/UxuiruSzd4I/AAAAAAAAGOA/v8ttMiPDv0A/s1600/RIMG0158.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DxeKUU-0-W0/UxuiruSzd4I/AAAAAAAAGOA/v8ttMiPDv0A/s320/RIMG0158.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOp66ziDkiw/Uxui5GkHXxI/AAAAAAAAGOQ/1YvdP1yBVH0/s1600/RIMG0174.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cOp66ziDkiw/Uxui5GkHXxI/AAAAAAAAGOQ/1YvdP1yBVH0/s320/RIMG0174.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgN4DdlkZns/Uxuivd29IMI/AAAAAAAAGOI/ANrEGARf9S0/s1600/RIMG0165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YgN4DdlkZns/Uxuivd29IMI/AAAAAAAAGOI/ANrEGARf9S0/s640/RIMG0165.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TgbF_MBMQz4/Uxui63K5QLI/AAAAAAAAGOY/_icf0u-oQWs/s1600/RIMG0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TgbF_MBMQz4/Uxui63K5QLI/AAAAAAAAGOY/_icf0u-oQWs/s320/RIMG0179.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GlNFRWRWiNM/Uxui-JbnZNI/AAAAAAAAGOg/qw7aeDzZdGo/s1600/RIMG0184.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GlNFRWRWiNM/Uxui-JbnZNI/AAAAAAAAGOg/qw7aeDzZdGo/s320/RIMG0184.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZCk_41NHoU/UxujEjVfjEI/AAAAAAAAGOw/dORQnC60tSE/s1600/RIMG0190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="West Vang Vieng Loop" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HZCk_41NHoU/UxujEjVfjEI/AAAAAAAAGOw/dORQnC60tSE/s640/RIMG0190.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-40749633546142572992014-03-08T15:15:00.001-08:002014-03-17T05:57:37.148-07:00Blue Lagoon & Phu Kham Cave<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E2_mRREQ4o/UxuhUnLJddI/AAAAAAAAGMQ/qwMvvBdv4y0/s1600/RIMG0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5E2_mRREQ4o/UxuhUnLJddI/AAAAAAAAGMQ/qwMvvBdv4y0/s640/RIMG0033.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-fCeMdkKOTCl6TWRLExUZHe2RA11HiZYve88lRhviXWzJpVkpRb-q9ECm-Dp2Xc98mMDM2PkpJHmmg33IAKhSLeTMuODhA9PcndkW5cyW7Hl_X8cd6J_lSpIVQ8W1vwXzROXxRYqSIXO/s1600/RIMG0056.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-fCeMdkKOTCl6TWRLExUZHe2RA11HiZYve88lRhviXWzJpVkpRb-q9ECm-Dp2Xc98mMDM2PkpJHmmg33IAKhSLeTMuODhA9PcndkW5cyW7Hl_X8cd6J_lSpIVQ8W1vwXzROXxRYqSIXO/s640/RIMG0056.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="660">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uk2_82XwTqo/UxuhFTD95mI/AAAAAAAAGL0/7O3BeoMU3U0/s1600/RIMG0012.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Uk2_82XwTqo/UxuhFTD95mI/AAAAAAAAGL0/7O3BeoMU3U0/s200/RIMG0012.JPG" /></a>
<br>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wBf-oMKEPfk/UxuhEnEOXcI/AAAAAAAAGLw/Bk_CvqiKmFA/s1600/RIMG0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wBf-oMKEPfk/UxuhEnEOXcI/AAAAAAAAGLw/Bk_CvqiKmFA/s200/RIMG0013.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
At 8:30 am, we left <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/maylyn-guest-house.html">Maylyn Guesthouse</a>, west of the free bridge, on very nice rented multi-speed Giant <b>mountain bikes</b> (<b>30,000 kip</b>). It took around <b>30 minutes to cycle</b> to <b>Phu Kham Cave</b>, where the <b>Blue Lagoon</b> is.
<br><br>
It was a scenic and <b>easy cycle</b> through rice paddies and local houses with mountains in the backdrop. All the roads are <b>unpaved dirt roads</b> with little rocks so it's a <b>very bumpy ride</b>. It's <b>mostly flat</b> so not a difficult ride at all - make sure you get a mountain bike because it might be rough on a regular city bike. When other vehicles pass by though, it can get very <b>dusty</b> so it's best to leave earlier in the day (less cars).
<br><br>
It's pretty straight forward as there are <b>English signs</b> starting 1 km away. On the way there, there are lots of other caves. You'll pass by 2 bridges on the way there.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_SSIkt0FHM/Uxug70So8rI/AAAAAAAAGLo/MbASa5sDxlo/s1600/RIMG0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E_SSIkt0FHM/Uxug70So8rI/AAAAAAAAGLo/MbASa5sDxlo/s320/RIMG0026.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ap6u7OYot5k/UxuhJhBQKII/AAAAAAAAGMA/Mpz1mry5czw/s1600/RIMG0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ap6u7OYot5k/UxuhJhBQKII/AAAAAAAAGMA/Mpz1mry5czw/s320/RIMG0029.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="680">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--brt3nV0YpA/UxuhTNIaO_I/AAAAAAAAGMI/6XvKoZwXIE0/s1600/RIMG0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--brt3nV0YpA/UxuhTNIaO_I/AAAAAAAAGMI/6XvKoZwXIE0/s200/RIMG0031.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
It costs <b>10,000 kip</b> to get in, including both <b>Phu Kham Cave</b> and the <b>Blue Lagoon</b>. There are some restaurants selling food and drinks as well as picnic tables and huts for you to relax in. Around <b>9 am</b>, there weren't anybody around. <b>After 10:30 am</b>, <b>lots of people</b> started arriving.
Even though I wouldn't really call it a "lagoon", the water of <b>Blue Lagoon</b> is refreshingly cool and beautifully clear, with lots of fish swimming around. It's quite deep so you can even dive in. There are also <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/tubing.html">tubes</a></b> for rent at <b>10,000 kip</b>.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDI131DeSwo/UxuiTcgw0EI/AAAAAAAAGNg/kl0FiXdSTyk/s1600/RIMG0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aDI131DeSwo/UxuiTcgw0EI/AAAAAAAAGNg/kl0FiXdSTyk/s640/RIMG0139.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="670">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dC3u2AWJeXA/UxuhXvOsAxI/AAAAAAAAGMY/h9H-yJWC3is/s1600/RIMG0052.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dC3u2AWJeXA/UxuhXvOsAxI/AAAAAAAAGMY/h9H-yJWC3is/s200/RIMG0052.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
You can get to <b>Phu Kham Cave</b> by climbing up some pretty steep rocky steps - takes about <b>5 minutes</b> so not too bad. The front bit of the cave is <b>naturally lit</b>, so you <b>don't really need a flashlight</b> unless you want to <b>follow the red arrows</b> and go further into the cave where it gets completely dark. There are <b>head torches</b> for rent at <b>10,000 kip</b>. Also, make sure you have <b>sensible footware</b> as you might need to climb over some rocks.
<br><br>
After <b>Phu Kham Cave</b> and <b>Blue Lagoon</b>, we continued on cycling the 30+ km <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/west-vang-vieng-loop.html">West Vang Vieng Loop</a></b>, which took over <b>2 hours</b> on <b>bumpy dirt roads</b>, through more villages and farms.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sYiiWm2a-nY/UxuhtqNp8LI/AAAAAAAAGMw/br3HIvsHFGs/s1600/RIMG0061.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sYiiWm2a-nY/UxuhtqNp8LI/AAAAAAAAGMw/br3HIvsHFGs/s320/RIMG0061.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0u8H1ceNog/UxuiDCYIv0I/AAAAAAAAGNI/XkJJgNw47gk/s1600/RIMG0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F0u8H1ceNog/UxuiDCYIv0I/AAAAAAAAGNI/XkJJgNw47gk/s320/RIMG0089.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AEi_tl2LsuY/Uxuh-R2jDzI/AAAAAAAAGM4/8b8XkP4uWSA/s1600/RIMG0084.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AEi_tl2LsuY/Uxuh-R2jDzI/AAAAAAAAGM4/8b8XkP4uWSA/s320/RIMG0084.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OvbRXQpn6s/UxuiA7Cnh8I/AAAAAAAAGNA/zhYOHSv7kTQ/s1600/RIMG0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5OvbRXQpn6s/UxuiA7Cnh8I/AAAAAAAAGNA/zhYOHSv7kTQ/s320/RIMG0086.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrN9jOvd75Q/Uxuhn8EQgDI/AAAAAAAAGMg/4GVW4vPXY_Q/s1600/RIMG0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrN9jOvd75Q/Uxuhn8EQgDI/AAAAAAAAGMg/4GVW4vPXY_Q/s320/RIMG0068.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CCZpAMdvYtg/UxuiLgQHdSI/AAAAAAAAGNQ/mvHz2R9JYtk/s1600/RIMG0113.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CCZpAMdvYtg/UxuiLgQHdSI/AAAAAAAAGNQ/mvHz2R9JYtk/s400/RIMG0113.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-5747700033228411152014-03-06T15:28:00.000-08:002014-03-12T16:12:24.042-07:00Tubing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D6xhEc9Qsyc/UxkD7np2WuI/AAAAAAAAGKw/4G0YwWn8DgM/s1600/100_2376.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D6xhEc9Qsyc/UxkD7np2WuI/AAAAAAAAGKw/4G0YwWn8DgM/s640/100_2376.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QleN-fGfy7M/UxkDZ2oe8sI/AAAAAAAAGKA/dOnmW89yTzM/s1600/100_2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QleN-fGfy7M/UxkDZ2oe8sI/AAAAAAAAGKA/dOnmW89yTzM/s200/100_2289.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
We got to the <b>tubing center</b> near the free bridge around 9:30 am. The fee is <b>55,000 kip</b> plus a <b>60,000 kip deposit</b>. First you go to the counter & fill in your name and some info then sign a <b>contract</b> promising you will <b>return the tube before 6 pm</b> or pay a <b>20,000 kip fine</b>. The staff will hand you a tube and <b>write a number on your hand</b> with a permanent marker - they'll find your contract receipt with this number when you return the tube to give you back the deposit.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<b>Everything you have on you you'll need to carry</b>, so make sure you have a <b>waterproof pouch</b> which they sell all around town. If you wear flip flops, you'll need to carry that somehow. Locals frown upon foreigners walking around in bikinis so you should wear something to cover up. Make sure you have <b>sunscreen</b> or something to cover your face.
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-edYtn469ugY/UxkEDdT_byI/AAAAAAAAGLA/nrcQwkANk1w/s1600/RIMG0106.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-edYtn469ugY/UxkEDdT_byI/AAAAAAAAGLA/nrcQwkANk1w/s320/RIMG0106.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j3W68KPrm0g/UxkEFOzXmhI/AAAAAAAAGLI/fvgonj1CvvI/s1600/RIMG0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-j3W68KPrm0g/UxkEFOzXmhI/AAAAAAAAGLI/fvgonj1CvvI/s400/RIMG0107.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QleN-fGfy7M/UxkDZ2oe8sI/AAAAAAAAGKA/dOnmW89yTzM/s1600/100_2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QleN-fGfy7M/UxkDZ2oe8sI/AAAAAAAAGKA/dOnmW89yTzM/s200/100_2289.JPG" /></a>
<br>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHC2u5xA7Jo/UxkDZif-bEI/AAAAAAAAGKE/WU4KiK8clic/s1600/100_2310.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zHC2u5xA7Jo/UxkDZif-bEI/AAAAAAAAGKE/WU4KiK8clic/s200/100_2310.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
Once there were a few people on the <b>tuk tuk</b>, it took about <b>10 minutes</b> to drive north to the <b>tubing drop off point</b>, in front of an organic farm that makes goat cheese. The <b>first bar's right there by the river</b>. It was not even open when we got there.
<br><br>
We were told by bar staff that the <b>first bar starts to get busy usually around noon</b> and the <b>third bar</b> (named <b>Second</b>) <b>around 2 pm</b>. They shut most of the bars except for <b>four</b> 18 months ago - all four bars are pretty close together, some offering <b>free Lao whiskey shots</b>. <b>If you want some peace and quiet, then go before noon</b>. <b>If you want to party, then leave after noon</b>. People who started later said it was still a lot of fun with many people partying, although people were puking all over the place and passing out.
<br><br>
The signs are clearly visible from the river so you can stop if you want to. We went to the 3rd and 4th bar, but there were very few people and no sign of any "happy" drinks. The bars were nice enough little huts by the river, with <b>hammocks</b> and <b>food for sale</b>. <b>Big Beerlao</b> was <b>15,000 kip</b> and a <b>Bacardi Breezer</b> was <b>30,000 kip</b>.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRhjCqei48w/UxkDaVRzTlI/AAAAAAAAGKI/HJ0p__3-9EA/s1600/100_2311.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dRhjCqei48w/UxkDaVRzTlI/AAAAAAAAGKI/HJ0p__3-9EA/s320/100_2311.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqWsmB1tFJ8/UxkDmI8D3oI/AAAAAAAAGKQ/LHdQSfaDUzY/s1600/100_2319.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XqWsmB1tFJ8/UxkDmI8D3oI/AAAAAAAAGKQ/LHdQSfaDUzY/s320/100_2319.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr><tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EbQtuYG4w7E/UxkDoNbisVI/AAAAAAAAGKc/zy_cvywqdeQ/s1600/100_2328.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EbQtuYG4w7E/UxkDoNbisVI/AAAAAAAAGKc/zy_cvywqdeQ/s320/100_2328.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk04JIyOPgQ/UxkDo6GE6nI/AAAAAAAAGKg/FTfoKz70HRI/s1600/100_2329.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Mk04JIyOPgQ/UxkDo6GE6nI/AAAAAAAAGKg/FTfoKz70HRI/s320/100_2329.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
Because <b>March</b> is the start of the <b>hot season</b>, it takes <b>3 hours</b> without stopping to float down the river. During the <b>wet season</b>, it supposedly takes just <b>one hour</b>. Most of the time, the flow was <b>very slow</b> with the exception of a few <b>very brief rapids</b>. The water was <b>very shallow</b> for the most part. In fact, sometimes your bum scraps against the <b>rocks on the bottom</b> because it's barely ankle-deep — not the most pleasant experience.
<br><br>
Even though the <b>view was nice</b> and it was relaxing, it was really <b>not very exciting</b> since it was so slow and took so long - it's probably more fun just after the wet season. Around 3, I ended up leaving before the end where there's a sign saying "2 km left". I paid a <b>tuk tuk driver waiting by the riverbank</b> <b>30,000 kip</b> to drive me back to the tubing station — it'd probably be cheaper if there's more than one person. If you go the rest of the way, towards the end a bit before the free bridge, you'll see a <b>sign signalling the end</b>. If you keep on going until the free bridge, the water might turn warm and yucky just after the island — just imagine why that might be...redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-6572973941259725242014-03-05T00:06:00.002-08:002014-03-05T04:11:57.383-08:00Chang Cave <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WrkB0Cb5qttL2XDcryeH-Wrz-c_dws-ybmZYzAqlDYMdPOVBaA0gnMIqKt_cQQ9V4ZQLao-iedbKz-E6J7-oeXHBlWVej8kQ5snxHQ0bPGRn3Oy6bQR_lMAaFTVPxJ9j0v9QtMjvjK9V/s1600/RIMG0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2WrkB0Cb5qttL2XDcryeH-Wrz-c_dws-ybmZYzAqlDYMdPOVBaA0gnMIqKt_cQQ9V4ZQLao-iedbKz-E6J7-oeXHBlWVej8kQ5snxHQ0bPGRn3Oy6bQR_lMAaFTVPxJ9j0v9QtMjvjK9V/s640/RIMG0093.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K8obzVvQaI/UxcGrCUK3_I/AAAAAAAAGHE/iykO_ukzndk/s1600/RIMG0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K8obzVvQaI/UxcGrCUK3_I/AAAAAAAAGHE/iykO_ukzndk/s200/RIMG0018.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
We started from the west side of the paid bridge, crossed the bridge to the east, turned right and walked straight until we saw a sign for <b>Vang Vieng Resort Restaurant</b>/<b>Jammee Guesthouse</b>. This took <b>less than 10 minutes</b>.
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QPgibaCEq4/UxcHW6L2RfI/AAAAAAAAGHM/QB94hrEeXRk/s1600/RIMG0140.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_QPgibaCEq4/UxcHW6L2RfI/AAAAAAAAGHM/QB94hrEeXRk/s200/RIMG0140.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
We turned right into the unpaved road and walked straight for <b>5 minutes</b> until we reached the entrance gate of Vang Vieng Resort. You need to pay <b>2000 kip</b> to pass through. Keep the ticket to cross the bridge later.
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9g4H3_ZUYCA/UxcHoj0ybyI/AAAAAAAAGHU/5eG_z9F7At4/s1600/RIMG0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9g4H3_ZUYCA/UxcHoj0ybyI/AAAAAAAAGHU/5eG_z9F7At4/s200/RIMG0026.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
Go along the path through the resort and you'll see an <b>orange bridge</b> in <b>less than 5 minutes</b>. Give your previous 2000-kip ticket to the booth attendant to cross the bridge. From the bridge, the view of the calm river and the cliffs are quite nice.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BFMX20azq98/UxcIlt1JdaI/AAAAAAAAGHg/HBeuiCWaF3c/s1600/RIMG0138.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BFMX20azq98/UxcIlt1JdaI/AAAAAAAAGHg/HBeuiCWaF3c/s200/RIMG0138.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6bbC8MGfFBM/UxcJxASQ0WI/AAAAAAAAGH0/lflM6Jrj00Q/s1600/RIMG0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6bbC8MGfFBM/UxcJxASQ0WI/AAAAAAAAGH0/lflM6Jrj00Q/s200/RIMG0027.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xybOz6a9wxw/UxcKYmruOGI/AAAAAAAAGIA/kaQpuI8fAk0/s1600/RIMG0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xybOz6a9wxw/UxcKYmruOGI/AAAAAAAAGIA/kaQpuI8fAk0/s200/RIMG0028.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlsP7sWWyGxBYpCbqxquBbYG-WidBgCnfmG94v9xrT_WJGhWEEybiVotBxSHsb7foQAxh6tRaogbstFSapePFrHSX5j8N9uOGude2UOhzD4V8C3akwZiO11ecNrQtvdChxVQaBqbMndmz/s1600/RIMG0139.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYlsP7sWWyGxBYpCbqxquBbYG-WidBgCnfmG94v9xrT_WJGhWEEybiVotBxSHsb7foQAxh6tRaogbstFSapePFrHSX5j8N9uOGude2UOhzD4V8C3akwZiO11ecNrQtvdChxVQaBqbMndmz/s200/RIMG0139.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
Once you crossed the bridge, walk towards the <b>left</b>. There are some vendors selling fruit and snacks. In about <b>5 minutes</b>, you'll see a hut and some very steep steps. This is the entrance to the cave. It's 15,000 kip to enter.
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EuNl5ShAT4A/UxcLEHX1zLI/AAAAAAAAGII/FGlWnwDvwpI/s1600/RIMG0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EuNl5ShAT4A/UxcLEHX1zLI/AAAAAAAAGII/FGlWnwDvwpI/s200/RIMG0033.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
The stairs may look quite steep but it only took us <b>less than 5 minutes to go up</b>.
<br><br>
The cave is <b>lit</b>, with <b>paved walkways</b> and <b>handrails</b>. There is a <b>view point</b> where you can get an aerail view of the river and rice paddies. It took us <b>less than 30 minutes to walk through the cave</b>.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Wxy7tayDiU/UxcOyZPaTrI/AAAAAAAAGJE/5KmtvyWwXGQ/s1600/RIMG0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Wxy7tayDiU/UxcOyZPaTrI/AAAAAAAAGJE/5KmtvyWwXGQ/s640/RIMG0091.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFIfhyW-NaE/UxcL0Tayw_I/AAAAAAAAGIY/n6Cw4K5PIDU/s1600/RIMG0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zFIfhyW-NaE/UxcL0Tayw_I/AAAAAAAAGIY/n6Cw4K5PIDU/s320/RIMG0054.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dsww26upXys/UxcM6WRgX-I/AAAAAAAAGIk/ckEyZd662ao/s1600/RIMG0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dsww26upXys/UxcM6WRgX-I/AAAAAAAAGIk/ckEyZd662ao/s320/RIMG0057.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kzvBDnZ3big/UxcRAhYoUjI/AAAAAAAAGJg/uBnwnEU9rIM/s1600/RIMG0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kzvBDnZ3big/UxcRAhYoUjI/AAAAAAAAGJg/uBnwnEU9rIM/s200/RIMG0126.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
Past the entrance of the cave, across 2 small orange bridges, there's a <b>clear pool</b> of water that you can <b>swi</b>m in, with rocks on the bottom and many small <b>fish</b>. During the hot season, it's quite small.
</td>
</tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbMKJeKhhKA/UxcOrtMixkI/AAAAAAAAGI8/axPt618UubA/s1600/RIMG0113.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VbMKJeKhhKA/UxcOrtMixkI/AAAAAAAAGI8/axPt618UubA/s400/RIMG0113.JPG" /></a>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QyfvIIwmWv4/UxcPZvvMSLI/AAAAAAAAGJM/Z3y7zzKO044/s1600/RIMG0120.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QyfvIIwmWv4/UxcPZvvMSLI/AAAAAAAAGJM/Z3y7zzKO044/s320/RIMG0120.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PFYrm9x6fnk/UxcNz9BjFtI/AAAAAAAAGIw/KgpWb3Eul_o/s1600/RIMG0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PFYrm9x6fnk/UxcNz9BjFtI/AAAAAAAAGIw/KgpWb3Eul_o/s320/RIMG0100.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8wtQiCndXs/UxcQYPI5LYI/AAAAAAAAGJY/S5XPZFTuJvo/s1600/RIMG0137.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i8wtQiCndXs/UxcQYPI5LYI/AAAAAAAAGJY/S5XPZFTuJvo/s400/RIMG0137.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-50907309074868217502014-03-03T16:50:00.000-08:002014-04-08T01:48:04.731-07:00Lusi Cave<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ApCnSoUeYhM/UxUjvv2Q6mI/AAAAAAAAGEk/Borz5FvCy_E/s1600/RIMG0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="Lusi Cave" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ApCnSoUeYhM/UxUjvv2Q6mI/AAAAAAAAGEk/Borz5FvCy_E/s640/RIMG0054.JPG" /></a></div>
<b>Lusi Cave</b> is <b>2 km</b> from the west side of the free bridge in <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng-attractions.html">Vang Vieng</a>. It took us <b>1 hour</b> to slowly walk to the cave - the scenery on the way is absolutely gorgeous. Note that you'll be totally exposed to the sun a lot of the time, so it's probably best to avoid walking when it's hot especially during the hot season - it could be <b>very hot</b>. <b>Bring water</b> & wear <b>sensible shoes</b>! There are <b>yellow signs on bamboo sticks</b> all along the way. It's <b>pretty flat all the way</b>, so can rent a <b>bicycle</b> or <b>motorcycle</b>, although there's one very short sketchy-looking bamboo bridge you'll need to cross.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV_ZY1dGI-0/UxUiIxL-HII/AAAAAAAAGEQ/IjFs9nxVotc/s1600/RIMG0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rV_ZY1dGI-0/UxUiIxL-HII/AAAAAAAAGEQ/IjFs9nxVotc/s200/RIMG0025.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LcAmBuiMLIY/UxUjQqFr4FI/AAAAAAAAGEc/TBlnwejZ3aA/s1600/RIMG0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LcAmBuiMLIY/UxUjQqFr4FI/AAAAAAAAGEc/TBlnwejZ3aA/s200/RIMG0026.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
First, you start off by going on the wooden walkway between <b>Banana Bungalows</b> and <b>Cliff View Bungalows.</b>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8_UqDM2ovog/UxUlf_zni9I/AAAAAAAAGEw/3dZoeGpr11w/s1600/RIMG0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8_UqDM2ovog/UxUlf_zni9I/AAAAAAAAGEw/3dZoeGpr11w/s200/RIMG0030.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0-AX2-UpC8A/UxUlxXWM9DI/AAAAAAAAGE4/9AgxVOLGkic/s1600/RIMG0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0-AX2-UpC8A/UxUlxXWM9DI/AAAAAAAAGE4/9AgxVOLGkic/s200/RIMG0037.JPG" /></a>
</td><td>
Half way, you'll see a hill with a flag on top - <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/pha-poak-mountain.html">Pha Poak Cave</a></b>. You can pay <b>10,000 kip</b> to climb up for an <b>incredible view from up top</b>. They sell <b>drinks</b> at the bottom.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdLXlNqaRfA/UxUnNMyUOdI/AAAAAAAAGFI/tiIgmXvZtuQ/s1600/RIMG0041.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BdLXlNqaRfA/UxUnNMyUOdI/AAAAAAAAGFI/tiIgmXvZtuQ/s200/RIMG0041.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0gXk8MtPnM/UxUnM8tgSuI/AAAAAAAAGFE/LyC6h4DUcW4/s1600/RIMG0042.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C0gXk8MtPnM/UxUnM8tgSuI/AAAAAAAAGFE/LyC6h4DUcW4/s200/RIMG0042.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q99iIqmljfI/UxUsprLv74I/AAAAAAAAGGU/AfInaYDYxXg/s1600/RIMG0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q99iIqmljfI/UxUsprLv74I/AAAAAAAAGGU/AfInaYDYxXg/s200/RIMG0046.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2s2se1cpXE2krhrgOHWMm_6Uy5AiH-SWS1iUICZ6K2xBXwyyz9vVFLEvaOtMDDQENoSi1w6XfairqRkf6IDvDfVXmLIfhJTq9QEiUJB_uaZQdCm7d8E-499WEzq6B_RavuZO2Nqvn2X38/s1600/RIMG0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2s2se1cpXE2krhrgOHWMm_6Uy5AiH-SWS1iUICZ6K2xBXwyyz9vVFLEvaOtMDDQENoSi1w6XfairqRkf6IDvDfVXmLIfhJTq9QEiUJB_uaZQdCm7d8E-499WEzq6B_RavuZO2Nqvn2X38/s200/RIMG0048.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4LRYOewko4/UxUoA4GR1sI/AAAAAAAAGFc/pHE-FDaAytY/s1600/RIMG0051.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M4LRYOewko4/UxUoA4GR1sI/AAAAAAAAGFc/pHE-FDaAytY/s200/RIMG0051.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqByOtjHiW12B5gQK4_GfKI1rdghC0vW6UdhPaoJSdMaQZR9Xf9rx2rM37J8Oi28sHN7Ua-nVYxZ7KwPHVPvAYjtosoRz9fqI2-VrIhRySvU6eIco50WHW6EFlMbRsrxZq0BEaw2GfTTs/s1600/RIMG0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqByOtjHiW12B5gQK4_GfKI1rdghC0vW6UdhPaoJSdMaQZR9Xf9rx2rM37J8Oi28sHN7Ua-nVYxZ7KwPHVPvAYjtosoRz9fqI2-VrIhRySvU6eIco50WHW6EFlMbRsrxZq0BEaw2GfTTs/s200/RIMG0091.JPG" /></a>
</td><td>
The admission for <b>Lusi Cave</b> is <b>10,000 kip</b> and it takes <b>an hour</b> to have a wander and walk back out. You get a <b>flashlight</b> each and a <b>guide</b> to take you inside this very <b>large</b>, <b>cool</b>, and completely <b>dark</b> cave. <b>Pay another 20,000 kip</b> if you want to go to a cold, <b>knee-height lagoon</b> inside which will take an additional <b>30 minutes</b> to get to. First, you must climb up some very <b>steep wooden ladders</b> with large gaps.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OCazd4YDDfc/UxUqkmBF4TI/AAAAAAAAGF0/LbvdtYtgJ10/s1600/RIMG0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OCazd4YDDfc/UxUqkmBF4TI/AAAAAAAAGF0/LbvdtYtgJ10/s320/RIMG0059.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JT69LDojnCk/UxUqknagBwI/AAAAAAAAGF4/czCG1LJyi74/s1600/RIMG0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JT69LDojnCk/UxUqknagBwI/AAAAAAAAGF4/czCG1LJyi74/s320/RIMG0062.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdrtIxfoubRFzYrIkVki6pkyGwQ9lavBN6SPjTP5W8YM84pJ5TbtC7GojkhZhtW30zMkEkLCX_K2hYjcOgHxB5jUn_qyAVUoJdbzKFdUb5pK37eI_W6FC2imaPz__Iv09JQgfjmUbP0ms/s1600/RIMG0064.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfdrtIxfoubRFzYrIkVki6pkyGwQ9lavBN6SPjTP5W8YM84pJ5TbtC7GojkhZhtW30zMkEkLCX_K2hYjcOgHxB5jUn_qyAVUoJdbzKFdUb5pK37eI_W6FC2imaPz__Iv09JQgfjmUbP0ms/s320/RIMG0064.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
Inside the cave, there's <b>shimmery rock formations</b> resembling the shape of various creatures. There are some <b>pits</b> with some <b>slippery parts</b> so wear sensible shoes and <b>watch where you're going</b>. The cave was <b>much bigger</b> than we imagined and we were the only tourists there. In fact, on the way there, we <b>didn't see anyone</b> except for a few people returning. It was a great <b>half-day trip</b>, taking a <b>total of 3 hours</b>.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igrAfLi7T-8/UxUqr1JiglI/AAAAAAAAGGM/HJgIKJMDLfM/s1600/RIMG0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igrAfLi7T-8/UxUqr1JiglI/AAAAAAAAGGM/HJgIKJMDLfM/s640/RIMG0066.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-17773361366502512722014-03-02T02:57:00.000-08:002014-03-27T09:56:01.899-07:00Maylyn Guest House<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="640">
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
Since we only booked 3 nights with the very comfortable and spotless <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/lao-haven.html"><b>Lao Haven</b></a>, we tried to find cheaper accommodation for the rest of our stay in <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng.html"><b>Vang Vieng</b></a>. We wandered over the <b>Namsong Bridge</b> (<b>4000 kip</b> to cross; other smaller bridges are free) and saw that <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g612363-d3403572-Reviews-Chez_Mango-Vang_Vieng_Vientiane_Province.html" target="new"><b>Chez Mango</b></a>, a place recommended by Lonely Planet was full so we decided to check out the other highly recommended one, <b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g612363-d1818136-Reviews-Maylyn_Guest_House-Vang_Vieng_Vientiane_Province.html" target="new">Maylyn Guest House</a></b>.
<br><br>
At <b>Maylyn Guest House</b>, a local guy who works there told us <b>they don't take bookings</b> because he doesn't know when current guests will leave - he told us to <b>just show up the day we need the room</b>. However, he did show us around when we asked to see a room first. The <b>grounds of this place are huge</b> - lush and beautiful.
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AO9m6lBpWiw/UxUcQIVyvvI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/Bj-OxZ3Beb8/s1600/RIMG0021+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AO9m6lBpWiw/UxUcQIVyvvI/AAAAAAAAGDQ/Bj-OxZ3Beb8/s320/RIMG0021+(2).JPG" /></a>
<br><font size="-1">road out front</font>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ugQ0jNCC_oM/UxMQbKrHGKI/AAAAAAAAGBU/sPFa9H2mNT8/s1600/RIMG0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ugQ0jNCC_oM/UxMQbKrHGKI/AAAAAAAAGBU/sPFa9H2mNT8/s320/RIMG0017.JPG" /></a>
<br><font size="-1">restaurant area</font>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
<b>Bungalows</b> range from <b>60,000-100,000 kip</b> (ones with shared bathroom are cheaper) and the newer concrete type with guaranteed hot showers costs <b>100,000-150,000 kip</b>. The <b>80,000 kip</b> bungalow he showed us looked basic on the outside but decent on the inside. The <b>100,000</b> room with concrete walls looked much bigger, newer, and nicer.
<br><br>
<b>Wifi is only available in the restaurant area</b> where you can refill <b>drinking water</b> for <b>1000 kip</b>. The food's quite good! You write your orders in a little book belonging to your room and pay when you check out. There are nice multi-speed <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/west-vang-vieng-loop.html">Giant mountain bikes</a></b> for rent at <b>30,000 kip</b>. <b>Laundry</b> is <b>10,000 kip per kilo</b>.
<br><br>
Out the entrance, there are some local shops and restaurants - the one next door serves an even wider selection of decent food and has wifi.
The road out is a dirt road with small rocks scattered all over, a very <b>rustic</b> feel.
It's about a <b>15-minute walk into "town"</b> but easy to get to the <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng-attractions.html"><b>caves</b></a> as they're on this side of the river.
</td></tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="640">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xZxcDWJMNCk/UxMbGCL5WeI/AAAAAAAAGCY/YkjRpfhvEew/s1600/RIMG0011.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xZxcDWJMNCk/UxMbGCL5WeI/AAAAAAAAGCY/YkjRpfhvEew/s320/RIMG0011.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pvr_BjYY824/UxMP3zJnK8I/AAAAAAAAGBM/E9fWPPxNppg/s1600/RIMG0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Maylyn Guesthouse" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pvr_BjYY824/UxMP3zJnK8I/AAAAAAAAGBM/E9fWPPxNppg/s320/RIMG0004.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr><tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zu3G6aUxtNo/UxP9RAzaEwI/AAAAAAAAGC4/q1q2hEwTH-s/s1600/RIMG0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zu3G6aUxtNo/UxP9RAzaEwI/AAAAAAAAGC4/q1q2hEwTH-s/s320/RIMG0036.JPG" /></a>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUBzNzhLTiU/UxP9neP9UfI/AAAAAAAAGDA/AkuPduSHKkc/s1600/RIMG0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUBzNzhLTiU/UxP9neP9UfI/AAAAAAAAGDA/AkuPduSHKkc/s320/RIMG0009.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</td></tr>
<tr><td colspan="2">
We showed up around noon a couple of days later and went for the <b>80,000 kip stand-alone bungalow</b>. <b>The view is incredible</b> - a lush field with dramatic karsts directly in front of our bungalow and butterflies dancing everywhere. There are some bamboo chairs and even a hammock so you can take in the view! It's very quiet, except for occasional <b>animal noises</b> - birds, roosters, cows...
<br><br>
The bungalow is perfect except that being early March, it is <b>very hot during the day even with the fan on</b> - at night and in the morning, it's cool though. This is probably not a problem outside the hot season. Although it's hot out, the <b>cold shower</b> is a bit too cold for me - Joe, the owner, said we could use the <b>hot shower room</b> and he'll install a hot water shower in the bungalow soon.
<br><br>
There are lights around the premise at night, but it doesn't hurt to have a <b>flashlight</b>, especially if you plan to walk along the riverbank back from town (some animal poop on the sand). Since the walls are made of woven bamboo and the windows are screen-less and glass-less, there are little <b>bugs</b> here and there, but a <b>mosquito net</b> over the bed is provided. There's a <b>metal box safe</b> inside the room.
</td></tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xbwyK76tpuQ/UxMcptmKayI/AAAAAAAAGCk/7bthP5sg-08/s1600/RIMG0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xbwyK76tpuQ/UxMcptmKayI/AAAAAAAAGCk/7bthP5sg-08/s640/RIMG0027.JPG" /></a>
<br><font size="-1">view from bungalow 15</font></div>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="640">
<tr><td colspan="2">
Although the standalone bungalow has an unbelievable view, the next day, we decided to switch over to the <b>new 100,000 kip-a-night room</b>. Although still a <b>fan room</b>, it's <b>much cooler</b> inside! The <b>shower's hot</b> even though the <b>water pressure is much lower</b>. With concrete walls and screens on the windows, <b>not many bugs get in</b>. The room's <b>bigger</b> and came with a table. There are also <b>more outlets</b>! It has a <b>shared balcony</b> with comfy slatted wooden deck chairs. The view's not as amazing, but still quite spectacular. We like the idea of the bungalow but much prefer the nice new room - we ended up spending 10 days here.
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlWt-dfT2HI/UxUcfiBP2QI/AAAAAAAAGD0/o_sm7hKIB0A/s1600/RIMG0035.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlWt-dfT2HI/UxUcfiBP2QI/AAAAAAAAGD0/o_sm7hKIB0A/s320/RIMG0035.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0ig3wWl9B4/UxUccO0Kb6I/AAAAAAAAGDs/Svtllld813Q/s1600/RIMG0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0ig3wWl9B4/UxUccO0Kb6I/AAAAAAAAGDs/Svtllld813Q/s320/RIMG0006.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQHXWIOqTes/UxUcbkb7gOI/AAAAAAAAGDo/5jS3Ej7k9VM/s1600/RIMG0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQHXWIOqTes/UxUcbkb7gOI/AAAAAAAAGDo/5jS3Ej7k9VM/s320/RIMG0004.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLtjMpWNcio/UxUcYjSJB-I/AAAAAAAAGDc/vLf1SwaFV_k/s1600/RIMG0005.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wLtjMpWNcio/UxUcYjSJB-I/AAAAAAAAGDc/vLf1SwaFV_k/s320/RIMG0005.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNISv4k7F7A/UxUgNXNFlhI/AAAAAAAAGD8/fmiFbb6vcdg/s1600/RIMG0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pNISv4k7F7A/UxUgNXNFlhI/AAAAAAAAGD8/fmiFbb6vcdg/s320/RIMG0013.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfRzlWeHhjNd13Rt3cY4BlVbIfFsTCCCbHWBQT8vH6vDgdRQhZPaIn90qZiOfbh-rg2xlz5gNWEKFGVGyfuUCZuX6rgIA2OT29YmaWYDY8bzCK5851ZU1SGIn4rrrLEuSMl9ygiMyDdDEi/s1600/RIMG0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfRzlWeHhjNd13Rt3cY4BlVbIfFsTCCCbHWBQT8vH6vDgdRQhZPaIn90qZiOfbh-rg2xlz5gNWEKFGVGyfuUCZuX6rgIA2OT29YmaWYDY8bzCK5851ZU1SGIn4rrrLEuSMl9ygiMyDdDEi/s640/RIMG0003.JPG" /></a>
<br><font size="-1">view from the new room</font></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-4717387530640032412014-02-27T20:41:00.000-08:002014-03-27T10:21:20.327-07:00Lao Haven<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JY-3ujJutWk/UxARcj5zldI/AAAAAAAAF8o/X_ZTZQ36_8s/s1600/RIMG0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="Lao Haven" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JY-3ujJutWk/UxARcj5zldI/AAAAAAAAF8o/X_ZTZQ36_8s/s640/RIMG0004.JPG" /></a></div>
Located less than a <b>5-10 minute walk</b> south of where most restaurants/party places are, <b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g612363-d2453573-Reviews-Laos_Haven_Hotel_Spa-Vang_Vieng_Vientiane_Province.html" target="new">Lao Haven Hotel & Spa</a></b> is fairly <b>quiet</b> for the most part. Even though you can find accommodation in <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/vang-vieng.html">Vang Vieng</a></b> for just <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/03/maylyn-guest-house.html">40,000-90,000 kip</a></b>, Singaporean-run Lao Haven is extremely <b>clean</b>, <b>spacious</b>, with a stunning view of shadowy <b>karsts</b> from the 3rd floor outdoor seating area. It doesn't have an elevator though. It can be booked online via <a href="http://www.agoda.com/laos-haven-hotel/hotel/vang-vieng-la.html" target="new"><b>agoda</b></a> or <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/la/laos-haven.html" target="new"><b>booking.com</b></a>.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeuFff5oe6E/UxARoc-FsHI/AAAAAAAAF8w/ThTRGLcAH30/s1600/RIMG0003+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QeuFff5oe6E/UxARoc-FsHI/AAAAAAAAF8w/ThTRGLcAH30/s320/RIMG0003+%25282%2529.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQdIQeBwuMU/UxAQoUnaeQI/AAAAAAAAF8M/insFZYiY8f4/s1600/RIMG0001+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iQdIQeBwuMU/UxAQoUnaeQI/AAAAAAAAF8M/insFZYiY8f4/s320/RIMG0001+%25282%2529.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
The bright <b>air conditioned</b> room has simple furniture plus a big <b>TV</b>, a <b>fridge</b>, and a <b>safe</b>. The bed is a bit on the hard side but comfortable. We paid a little extra (<b>$23 USD</b> a night) for a bigger room that includes daily <b>breakfast</b> of rice porridge with Chinese donuts or 2 fried/scrambled eggs, 2 sausages, fruit, juice, tea/coffee, and baguette with butter/jam. Our shower head doesn't stay in its holder sometimes, but other than that, it's been a very pleasant stay despite the fact that there are many house rules. The house next door sometimes likes to play loud music - you probably can't hear it in the room, but it's a bit annoying if you want to sit outside.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tmDkg3ZtmLE/UxARcSQGtmI/AAAAAAAAF8k/Rgw54NAz018/s1600/RIMG0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Lao Haven room" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tmDkg3ZtmLE/UxARcSQGtmI/AAAAAAAAF8k/Rgw54NAz018/s320/RIMG0050.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B9d3DJSovDA/UxAQyvT8r7I/AAAAAAAAF8U/KhomBHbsCrE/s1600/RIMG0004+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Lao Haven" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B9d3DJSovDA/UxAQyvT8r7I/AAAAAAAAF8U/KhomBHbsCrE/s320/RIMG0004+%25282%2529.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
We read on <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g612363-d2453573-Reviews-Laos_Haven_Hotel_Spa-Vang_Vieng_Vientiane_Province.html" target="new">Tripadvisor</a> that the owners are really friendly but when we first checked in, the lady at the front desk seemed slightly annoyed; however, when we asked her to fix our bathroom fan, she dealt with the problem promptly. The male owner is Singaporean so he can speak English and Chinese.
<br><br>
There's a <b>restaurant</b> downstairs with reasonable prices in case you're too lazy to walk a few minutes down the road for dinner. There are also <b>shops</b> selling snacks just across the street.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmTjVTJVmsY/UxASb3trPKI/AAAAAAAAF9E/4LjQiyqMwxo/s1600/RIMG0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PmTjVTJVmsY/UxASb3trPKI/AAAAAAAAF9E/4LjQiyqMwxo/s400/RIMG0058.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i6D34utTeVs/UxASa43yIHI/AAAAAAAAF88/vyaICZM8LTc/s1600/RIMG0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" alt="Lao Haven map" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i6D34utTeVs/UxASa43yIHI/AAAAAAAAF88/vyaICZM8LTc/s320/RIMG0059.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3" width="100%">
<tr><td colspan="2" bgcolor="#1e2063" align="center">
<font size="+2" color="#ffffff">
<a name="do"></a><b>Herbal Spa & Massage</b>
</font>
</td></tr>
</table>
<br>
They also have some massage and body treatment services available from <b>60,000-150,000 kip</b> for a <b>60-120-minute</b> session. I opted for a <b>30-minute</b> <b>Hom Ya</b> (<b>30,000 kip</b>), a traditional <b>herbal sauna</b>, followed by an <b>hour-long deep tissue massage</b> (<b>80,000 kip</b>).
<br><br>
The <b>herbal sauna</b> was in a small tiled room with narrow wooden benches along the walls. Although not the most comfortable, the menthol-smelling herbal mist wasn't too hot and cleared my sinuses.
<br><br>
A older middle-aged lady did the <b>deep tissue massage</b>, which turned out to be surprisingly good - I wished I had gotten a longer session! She got on the table and used her elbows and fingers to really massage every muscle with <b>essential oil</b>. It wasn't the most luxurious experience as it was done in a simple room, but the massage was great!redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-72395568652276519812014-02-26T06:24:00.002-08:002014-02-26T06:45:45.969-08:00Lao Cultural Dance at Sonphao<b>Lao Ethnic Cafe & Dining</b> ( <b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g295415-d1750101-Reviews-Sonphao-Luang_Prabang_Luang_Prabang_Province.html" target="new">Sonphao</a></b> ) diagonally across from <b>Wat Xieng Muan</b> is a restaurant with <b>Lao and Japanese food</b> that offers a <b>45-minute</b> traditional <b>traditional song & dance show</b> starting at <b>7:30 pm</b> — just drop by a few days ahead and make a reservation.
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FDst2lrnCoQ/Uw31EKN61AI/AAAAAAAAF3M/SdP6Urs_P-s/s1600/RIMG0161.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FDst2lrnCoQ/Uw31EKN61AI/AAAAAAAAF3M/SdP6Urs_P-s/s320/RIMG0161.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
The restaurant is clean with simple decor, not big with seating on both the ground floor and the <b>second floor</b>, where the show takes place. You can just have food there without watching the show or pay <b>25,000 kip</b> for the show without having food there.
<br><br>
We arrived a bit early to have dinner. The food there came in <b>small portions</b> but was well-plated and tasty. The <b>fried spring rolls with pork</b> we had was very good. Fresh spring rolls (25,000 kip) were just alright. The <b>Mekong fish steamed in banana leaf</b> (<b>35,000 kip</b>) was small but delicious. The <b>curry with rice</b> (<b>35,000 kip</b>) was also decent.
<br><br>
Their <b>Lao whiskey cocktails</b> were really nice, at <b>25,000 kip</b> each. Both the passion fruit one and the pineapple coconut one I had were fantastically fruity.
<br><br>
As it's partly run by a young Japanese lady, the wait staff seemed very well-trained. The <b>good service</b> made dining very pleasant, even though the chairs were not the most comfortable.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzUhz4j0kLQ/Uw300ywk1YI/AAAAAAAAF3E/-Esec2SN7-g/s1600/RIMG0113a.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QzUhz4j0kLQ/Uw300ywk1YI/AAAAAAAAF3E/-Esec2SN7-g/s320/RIMG0113a.jpg" /></a>
</td>
<td>
The dance program consisted of <b>4 short routines</b>, with a <b>live traditional 2-man band</b>. It was an intimate setting with just <b>3 dancers</b> on a small stage. They sang, danced, and changed outfits. To be honest, the dancing in all 4 parts seemed very similar to us. It was fairly <b>entertaining</b> as it was short and sweet.
<br><br>
All the performers looked quite young. With the exception of one very enthusiastic musician, all of them looked a little bored at some point. The dancers were lovely but seemed a bit shy and unsure of themselves at times. I <b>enjoyed the music a lot</b> until they started playing some cheesy Western tunes towards the end.
</td>
</tr></table>
Overall, it was a <b>good experience for tourists</b> like us, but I think if you're expecting real professional dancing, this is probably not the place for you.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LM-zlfeKgaQ/Uw36H4feZRI/AAAAAAAAF3Y/RS9qFrTggps/s1600/RIMG0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LM-zlfeKgaQ/Uw36H4feZRI/AAAAAAAAF3Y/RS9qFrTggps/s400/RIMG0142.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uciErq82BsE/Uw3z-HTFmGI/AAAAAAAAF2s/17ONBkuQXRk/s1600/RIMG0125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uciErq82BsE/Uw3z-HTFmGI/AAAAAAAAF2s/17ONBkuQXRk/s400/RIMG0125.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3-JNIuhK4o/Uw30hW7PC2I/AAAAAAAAF20/jElPkJAMTaM/s1600/RIMG0135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k3-JNIuhK4o/Uw30hW7PC2I/AAAAAAAAF20/jElPkJAMTaM/s400/RIMG0135.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RRg6K8RjDk/Uw30seshsdI/AAAAAAAAF28/Ey9rDFYjLJA/s1600/RIMG0152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2RRg6K8RjDk/Uw30seshsdI/AAAAAAAAF28/Ey9rDFYjLJA/s400/RIMG0152.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-40678238401383257742014-02-22T02:11:00.000-08:002014-04-08T01:46:04.704-07:00Kuang Si Waterfall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRQg2q6FZLg/Uwh-ZlkfprI/AAAAAAAAFwk/znai-cuS71o/s1600/RIMG0122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gRQg2q6FZLg/Uwh-ZlkfprI/AAAAAAAAFwk/znai-cuS71o/s640/RIMG0122.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SmlSsCMq13I/Uwh4_w-H3OI/AAAAAAAAFvc/XA7DNnoF9SQ/s1600/RIMG0037.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SmlSsCMq13I/Uwh4_w-H3OI/AAAAAAAAFvc/XA7DNnoF9SQ/s320/RIMG0037.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<b>Kuang Si Falls</b>, is by far the most gorgeous waterfall we've ever seen. You must go! From <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/luang-prabang.html">Luang Prabang</a></b>, you can get a <b>private tuk tuk</b> there for <b>200,000 kip</b> (or share one with others), but we decided to go with a <b>tour</b> agency that drove us there by a <b>minivan</b> for <b>50,000 each</b> (<b><i>11:30 am - 3:30 pm</i></b> or <b><i>1:30 - 5:30 pm</i></b> so 2 hours at the park — just enough time).
<br><br>
We got picked up at <b>11:30 am</b> in a <b>minivan</b> and it took <b>less than an hour</b> through some windy roads, passing a few villages and rice paddies. Beautiful drive.
<br><br>
I had no idea there were so many waterfalls here — pools of amazing light turquoise water just continued on and on until we reached the main fall. For those who don't want to do any trekking, the <b>main big waterfall</b> is just a <b>5-minute walk</b> front the main ticket gate, where you pay <b>20,000 kip</b> to get in.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZhrMPFEiM4/Uwh46qsfoqI/AAAAAAAAFvU/bL3wSvN5biQ/s1600/RIMG0024.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZhrMPFEiM4/Uwh46qsfoqI/AAAAAAAAFvU/bL3wSvN5biQ/s320/RIMG0024.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCpKwRw7P6M/Uwh6TLqktxI/AAAAAAAAFv0/qhdcCHzdinE/s1600/RIMG0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCpKwRw7P6M/Uwh6TLqktxI/AAAAAAAAFv0/qhdcCHzdinE/s320/RIMG0073.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="2">
However, there's a trekking trail you can take to avoid the crowds and still reach the <b>main big waterfall</b>. Not too difficult. There's a bridge where you can take impressive photos of the falls.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zxc5WNYzuY/Uwh5iEW7--I/AAAAAAAAFvk/9Z-rmP3cNRk/s1600/RIMG0057.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7zxc5WNYzuY/Uwh5iEW7--I/AAAAAAAAFvk/9Z-rmP3cNRk/s400/RIMG0057.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HykB9uy090w/Uwh6Oe2GlWI/AAAAAAAAFvs/GO7DPS-CZ_8/s1600/RIMG0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HykB9uy090w/Uwh6Oe2GlWI/AAAAAAAAFvs/GO7DPS-CZ_8/s400/RIMG0062.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td colspan="3">
After passing the impressive main fall, you can <b>keep on going up</b>. It's a more <b>steep mud path</b> with very few people. We had baguettes we packed for lunch here beside the waterfall above the main falls.
You can go up even more (even steeper), but we were told that the upper levels weren't much more impressive.
</td></tr>
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X8f2Yx-Ei3w/Uwh61xCSMII/AAAAAAAAFv8/j8aPe-Z0Y2k/s1600/RIMG0089.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X8f2Yx-Ei3w/Uwh61xCSMII/AAAAAAAAFv8/j8aPe-Z0Y2k/s320/RIMG0089.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_vswPtjI8ow/Uwh7V9gGIFI/AAAAAAAAFwE/ax0ZtwqVXXo/s1600/RIMG0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_vswPtjI8ow/Uwh7V9gGIFI/AAAAAAAAFwE/ax0ZtwqVXXo/s320/RIMG0093.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLpqfxu-RmSkVc4axKHwBrKZTbrDTje_-wq3uTcEPy062gE9DARU4wB2zRtwkY52z3bLnWQx4k72ov_utCnh4kLwTomlvx0Txcbo-BXShidn-nD1GKssGhiNFexVBhHBe5sEGEwObJfat/s1600/RIMG0100.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtLpqfxu-RmSkVc4axKHwBrKZTbrDTje_-wq3uTcEPy062gE9DARU4wB2zRtwkY52z3bLnWQx4k72ov_utCnh4kLwTomlvx0Txcbo-BXShidn-nD1GKssGhiNFexVBhHBe5sEGEwObJfat/s320/RIMG0100.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLa_iCTAD5E/Uwh9TE3ZrII/AAAAAAAAFwY/o9yHbJuV80I/s1600/RIMG0118.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YLa_iCTAD5E/Uwh9TE3ZrII/AAAAAAAAFwY/o9yHbJuV80I/s320/RIMG0118.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
The bottom pools are places where you can <b>swim</b>. There are some basic <b>changing rooms</b> there. The water is a little <b>cold</b>, but not too bad once you get in. The bottom of the pools could be a little slimy and <b>slippery</b>, with some <b>sharp rocks</b>, so watch your step. It's <b>mostly pretty shallow</b> with some <b>deep pockets</b>. We saw people diving into the lower pools so I presume those are deeper.
<br><br><br>
Near the entrance/exit, there is a <b>bear rescue center</b> with lots of bears playing in this bear playground park, complete with bear hammocks. You can get really close to the bears.
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay4Hp8CYd_U/Uwh-i5w0ErI/AAAAAAAAFws/18xPBq1Fv1Q/s1600/RIMG0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay4Hp8CYd_U/Uwh-i5w0ErI/AAAAAAAAFws/18xPBq1Fv1Q/s320/RIMG0006.JPG" /></a>
</td><td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eizNGh9I6KQ/UwisQp4aeXI/AAAAAAAAFxc/aqNRCI28pqA/s1600/RIMG0146.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eizNGh9I6KQ/UwisQp4aeXI/AAAAAAAAFxc/aqNRCI28pqA/s320/RIMG0146.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0F1DxnQdbJ4/Uwh_oMKXCZI/AAAAAAAAFxA/GP4T4vO_3QA/s1600/RIMG0149.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0F1DxnQdbJ4/Uwh_oMKXCZI/AAAAAAAAFxA/GP4T4vO_3QA/s320/RIMG0149.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JNVQM3ySX9E/Uwh_hymPVwI/AAAAAAAAFw4/SetBofgiLO4/s1600/RIMG0160.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JNVQM3ySX9E/Uwh_hymPVwI/AAAAAAAAFw4/SetBofgiLO4/s200/RIMG0160.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
<b>2 hours</b> later at <b>2:30 pm</b>, we drove back in the minivan. It was just enough time to see the falls, do a bit of hiking, take a dip in the pool, and take a look at the bears.
<br><br>
Half way, the driver suddenly pulled over at a <b>village selling handicrafts</b>. Upon seeing foreigners entering, children rushed to put on their "traditonal headdresses" and sad faces while repeatedly muttering a drawn out "five-thou-sand" and pushing embroidered bracelets towards you. Not sure how I felt about it.
<br><br>
Overall, it was a fantastic trip. If there weren't people there, it would probably be what heaven looks like — seemingly endless light turquoise pools and falls with exotic flowers and plants! Can't wait to journey back to this incredible place again!
</td>
</tr></table>
Next time, we would probably try to spend more time there, perhaps by <b>cycling</b> there. The roads are pretty well paved although on the way there, it's all uphill so it might be a bit challenging!redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-32568473032988227682014-02-21T04:22:00.001-08:002015-07-30T14:12:23.927-07:00Cycle to Tad Thong Waterfall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvWda_-UX4s/UwdDAnAU6RI/AAAAAAAAFtk/VMZNsx-wkiI/s1600/RIMG0040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="Tad Thong Waterfall" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gvWda_-UX4s/UwdDAnAU6RI/AAAAAAAAFtk/VMZNsx-wkiI/s640/RIMG0040.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0NeJNU7mkuM/UwdE6LACseI/AAAAAAAAFt4/OCbrkcIim1o/s1600/RIMG0091.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0NeJNU7mkuM/UwdE6LACseI/AAAAAAAAFt4/OCbrkcIim1o/s200/RIMG0091.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
It takes roughly <b>an hour</b> from <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/luang-prabang.html">Luang Prabang</a></b>'s <b>Tourist Street</b> to <b>cycle</b> to <b>Tad Thong Waterfalls</b>. We rented bikes for <b>15,000 kip</b> each — you need to leave your <b>passport</b> as a deposit.
<br><br>
The admission to <b>Tad Thong Waterfalls</b> is <b>20,000 kip</b>. Make sure you have some <b>water</b>, <b>sunscreen</b>, and <b>insect repellent</b> before you set out on this half-day trip!
</td>
</tr>
<tr><td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IC7ap9D87Q8/UwikdE4JjnI/AAAAAAAAFxQ/H-41gvCzX0s/s1600/P1080292c.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IC7ap9D87Q8/UwikdE4JjnI/AAAAAAAAFxQ/H-41gvCzX0s/s200/P1080292c.jpg" /></a>
</td>
<td>
The first <b>50 minutes</b> we slowly <b>cycled out</b> of the beautiful <b>Old City</b> of <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/p/luang-prabang.html">Luang Prabang</a></b>. Once we got out of the <b>UNESCO World Heritage Town</b>, it wasn't as pleasant anymore — dusty roads, local shops, and of course, ugly construction. The air wasn't even fresh because people were burning stuff. Well, if you want "real" or "authentic" Southeast Asia, there you have it. It's still fairly nice though. There wasn't much traffic so it wasn't stressful to ride. Quite an easy ride, actually.
</td></tr>
</table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr3AKIhuLes/Uwc-yKo_3FI/AAAAAAAAFsY/SrWBdVvcJ5I/s1600/RIMG0002.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr3AKIhuLes/Uwc-yKo_3FI/AAAAAAAAFsY/SrWBdVvcJ5I/s200/RIMG0002.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odU8d3FYt1k/Uwc-xDaxkcI/AAAAAAAAFsU/QguOrqHv-QI/s1600/RIMG0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-odU8d3FYt1k/Uwc-xDaxkcI/AAAAAAAAFsU/QguOrqHv-QI/s200/RIMG0003.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-duz84ERzEkQ/Uwc_zPhCt9I/AAAAAAAAFsk/6AP7iMkx6n4/s1600/RIMG0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-duz84ERzEkQ/Uwc_zPhCt9I/AAAAAAAAFsk/6AP7iMkx6n4/s200/RIMG0006.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
We reached a <b>sign</b> on the right hand side of the road, <b>2.8 km</b> to <b>Tad Thong Waterfalls</b>. This is the beginning of a <b>dirt road with lots of little rocks</b> that goes <b>uphill</b> gradually. I had to get off my rented city bike and walk pushing up my bike for a lot of it. Not very much fun.
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GlzIJgE_ns/UwdAADvDW_I/AAAAAAAAFs0/vdF60PE8vPA/s1600/RIMG0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7GlzIJgE_ns/UwdAADvDW_I/AAAAAAAAFs0/vdF60PE8vPA/s200/RIMG0015.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isy_nRzlw3c/Uwc_9KqxyII/AAAAAAAAFss/xQqmDbGaJG4/s1600/RIMG0013.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-isy_nRzlw3c/Uwc_9KqxyII/AAAAAAAAFss/xQqmDbGaJG4/s200/RIMG0013.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gctBQFHqciY/UwdBBMA2E-I/AAAAAAAAFtA/qMYeeKCcB-M/s1600/RIMG0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gctBQFHqciY/UwdBBMA2E-I/AAAAAAAAFtA/qMYeeKCcB-M/s200/RIMG0019.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
After almost <b>20 minutes</b> in the hot sun, we saw a hut. This is where you buy the <b>20,000 kip ticket</b>. There's a <b>restaurant hut</b> to get <b>iced water</b> (Hallelujah! <b>5000 kip</b> for a <b>600 mL</b> bottle) & food.
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uorigKZ38_M/UwdGS_Z4O-I/AAAAAAAAFuU/7Bqwwc_WQt0/s1600/RIMG0093.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uorigKZ38_M/UwdGS_Z4O-I/AAAAAAAAFuU/7Bqwwc_WQt0/s320/RIMG0093.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7KIfgDJxjC0/UwdGBEXBFYI/AAAAAAAAFuM/IRJAebXPSPw/s1600/RIMG0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7KIfgDJxjC0/UwdGBEXBFYI/AAAAAAAAFuM/IRJAebXPSPw/s320/RIMG0092.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6bG3Yes7bA/UwdBK76I3XI/AAAAAAAAFtI/eoNsI_IG5oo/s1600/RIMG0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M6bG3Yes7bA/UwdBK76I3XI/AAAAAAAAFtI/eoNsI_IG5oo/s200/RIMG0022.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJyt2Z2hOsw/UwdBRajk7eI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/9F3sSW5VTMQ/s1600/RIMG0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJyt2Z2hOsw/UwdBRajk7eI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/9F3sSW5VTMQ/s200/RIMG0025.JPG" /></a>
</td><td>
Even though the <b>map sign</b> shows the trails, <b>nothing was marked</b> once you start the trail. The trail was <b>paved</b> with <b>concrete steps</b> the whole way, except when you have to cross some very dodgy makeshift wooden bridges. There were a lot of steps <b>going up</b>, but it was nice and shaded, with lots of big butterflies dancing around and birds chirping away. Be prepared that lots of little bugs might be circling your face and try to get into your eyes! The price of being in nature? When we were there, it was very <b>quiet</b> — we didn't see anyone else during the whole <b>1-hour walk</b>.
</td></tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dmCB6fjGT_s/UwdC1eZhIvI/AAAAAAAAFtc/o01zZBxebsI/s1600/RIMG0036.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dmCB6fjGT_s/UwdC1eZhIvI/AAAAAAAAFtc/o01zZBxebsI/s200/RIMG0036.JPG" /></a>
</td><td>
After less than an hour walking through the trails, we were very confused.
<br><br>
"Where are the waterfalls?"<br>
"Is that a waterfall?"<br>
"Is this it??!!"
<br><br>
The "<b>waterfalls</b>" we saw looked nothing like the photos (ha!), to the point that we weren't really sure if the tiny bits of water trickling constituted a waterfall. I guess in the dry season (mid February), the waterfalls pretty much dried up. The only one that remotely resembled a waterfall was right by the <b>entrance of the trail</b>.
</td></tr></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rVMB8xoeKe4/UwdFfakqVUI/AAAAAAAAFuE/yhUACFDX4h4/s1600/RIMG0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rVMB8xoeKe4/UwdFfakqVUI/AAAAAAAAFuE/yhUACFDX4h4/s200/RIMG0071.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
While the waterfall itself is quite disappointing, the adjacent <b>swimming lake</b> with 5 <b>free private huts</b> is a great place to have a quiet, relaxing afternoon — barely anyone around! Amazing scenery! Bring a cushion if you plan to have a nap.
<br><br>
You can get food and drinks from the nearby <b>restaurant hut</b> — the big bowl of <b>Luang Prabang noodles</b> I ordered for <b>20,000 kip</b> was peppery but delicious!
<br><br>
The huts are even equipped with electrical outlets. Maybe they were trying to make up for the far-from-impressive waterfalls?
</td>
</tr></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwAPPcwI5OE/UwdEfRhk0ZI/AAAAAAAAFtw/6kqWrzZ66Q0/s1600/RIMG0059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZwAPPcwI5OE/UwdEfRhk0ZI/AAAAAAAAFtw/6kqWrzZ66Q0/s640/RIMG0059.JPG" /></a></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="3">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q9u3ey8_yyM/UwdGhAjnmdI/AAAAAAAAFuc/0lOFoTlG2GU/s1600/RIMG0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q9u3ey8_yyM/UwdGhAjnmdI/AAAAAAAAFuc/0lOFoTlG2GU/s200/RIMG0095.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td>
The way back was much faster! Almost <b>downhill</b> all the way, although very <b>bumpy</b> for the first little bit until you get back on the main road. Make sure you rent a bike with working brakes (mine weren't really working properly... good times!)
<br><br>
It only took less than <b>30 minutes</b> to get back to <b>Luang Prabang Town</b>'s city center.
</td>
</tr></table>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-16831789525221677162014-02-20T06:04:00.000-08:002014-02-21T20:07:36.657-08:00Phongboun Guesthouse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sK2vj43Y7Kc/UwYC13ldWVI/AAAAAAAAFqs/BMf6bFhydwk/s1600/RIMG0107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sK2vj43Y7Kc/UwYC13ldWVI/AAAAAAAAFqs/BMf6bFhydwk/s400/RIMG0107.JPG" /></a></div>
A bit more dated and without an air conditioner, our <b>room with an ensuite bathroom and a shared balcony</b> is at a very affordable <b>90,000 kip</b> (normally <b>100,000 kip</b>, but we cut a deal for staying for a week), half of what we paid for a <a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/sopha-house.html">newer and cleaner riverside guesthouse</a>. A <b>room on the first floor without a balcony</b> is only <b>80,000 kip a day</b> (it has a double bed plus a single bed). We asked around and guesthouses nearby cost at least twice or 3 times as much.
<br><br>
The room is large and conveniently located. Although not a riverfront property, it's only 2 doors away from the <b>Mekong River</b>. There are cheap places of <b>breakfast</b> (15,000-29,000+ kip per dish; 6000 kip for a fruit shake) just across the street.
<br><br>
Opening the balcony door during the day fills the room with fresh air, which we quite enjoy. Like the other place we've stayed, it's also not soundproof. Expect to hear everything, from street noises to people in the next building. Wifi is not very fast but works, just like another guesthouse we stayed at. If you don't mind a little dust, less-than-stellar cleanliness, a creaky bathroom door, and some cracks in the door, this is a decent price to stay at a great price. You can have free bananas, coffee, and tea and rent <b>bicycles</b> here for <b>10,000 kip</b> a day, cheaper than other places.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nj2kSGnH63w/UwYBR3J86_I/AAAAAAAAFqE/Q57kr6g6k1s/s1600/RIMG0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nj2kSGnH63w/UwYBR3J86_I/AAAAAAAAFqE/Q57kr6g6k1s/s400/RIMG0001.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LT5R3Bz6nDA/UwYMNZzVNKI/AAAAAAAAFrA/qxU421_xcyg/s1600/RIMG0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LT5R3Bz6nDA/UwYMNZzVNKI/AAAAAAAAFrA/qxU421_xcyg/s400/RIMG0104.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TY6op1CsIMY/UwYSqYmM4pI/AAAAAAAAFrc/okHxO9AJ1SM/s1600/RIMG0003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TY6op1CsIMY/UwYSqYmM4pI/AAAAAAAAFrc/okHxO9AJ1SM/s400/RIMG0003.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_oodEjHNLE/UwYB3MinJqI/AAAAAAAAFqU/GwxoaF7aE3o/s1600/RIMG0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o_oodEjHNLE/UwYB3MinJqI/AAAAAAAAFqU/GwxoaF7aE3o/s400/RIMG0006.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x35BGwkzMR4/UwYBnkxvJ_I/AAAAAAAAFqM/Nhjq_fBCpmU/s1600/RIMG0004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x35BGwkzMR4/UwYBnkxvJ_I/AAAAAAAAFqM/Nhjq_fBCpmU/s400/RIMG0004.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilI4ZG7fBaE7RLm7-r57ZKaL-gV7JZsKTZrehQsANsqht6IbVDX9Ss6RjYPX8IXgI4yEtzppzih4dQyxFq-q-aMVZp7RIlPpsKwD05coQ4ay8DpTDAevd4pELulm417s_9abnBks8GBvx9/s1600/RIMG0108.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilI4ZG7fBaE7RLm7-r57ZKaL-gV7JZsKTZrehQsANsqht6IbVDX9Ss6RjYPX8IXgI4yEtzppzih4dQyxFq-q-aMVZp7RIlPpsKwD05coQ4ay8DpTDAevd4pELulm417s_9abnBks8GBvx9/s400/RIMG0108.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dhkAKPi1tw/UwYCPFRIDyI/AAAAAAAAFqc/sLEbQIsE50M/s1600/RIMG0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1dhkAKPi1tw/UwYCPFRIDyI/AAAAAAAAFqc/sLEbQIsE50M/s400/RIMG0009.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHwIAaWeLNA/Uwc-o3-wB6I/AAAAAAAAFsI/AdkB8D1j2RQ/s1600/RIMG0105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SHwIAaWeLNA/Uwc-o3-wB6I/AAAAAAAAFsI/AdkB8D1j2RQ/s400/RIMG0105.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-71819423248211945952014-02-20T06:01:00.001-08:002014-03-28T06:45:55.958-07:00Sopha House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rW6dfgv795U/UwX6lGUe6fI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/8RKjKz3SQt0/s1600/RIMG0283.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rW6dfgv795U/UwX6lGUe6fI/AAAAAAAAFpQ/8RKjKz3SQt0/s640/RIMG0283.JPG" /></a></div>
<b><a href="http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Hotel_Review-g295415-d1606559-Reviews-Sopha_House-Luang_Prabang_Luang_Prabang_Province.html" target="new">Sopha House</a></b> can be booked online via <a href="http://www.agoda.com/sopha-guesthouse/hotel/luang-prabang-la.html" target="new"><b>agoda</b></a> or <a href="http://www.booking.com/hotel/la/sopha-house.en-gb.html" target="new"><b>booking.com</b></a>.
Lovely riverside place right by the <b>Nam Khan River</b>, near the <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/bamboo-bridges.html">bamboo bridge</a></b> (only during dry season) and a couple of minutes to walk to the <b>Tourist Street</b> and <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/markets.html">Night Market</a></b>. Lots of charming (riverside) restaurants nearby. <b>Jomo Cafe</b> 2 doors down has (not cheap but) great ham & cheese croissants (chocolate croissant was also good, but their other stuff like pizza, mango crumb cake, and black forest cake were just okay).
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l4KKWgF7y2U/UwYSC9h50dI/AAAAAAAAFrU/Ogku0CtApug/s1600/RIMG0208.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l4KKWgF7y2U/UwYSC9h50dI/AAAAAAAAFrU/Ogku0CtApug/s320/RIMG0208.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vEuZOobBhXQ/UwX_tBmrulI/AAAAAAAAFpo/99A2nMUm2U4/s1600/RIMG0200.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vEuZOobBhXQ/UwX_tBmrulI/AAAAAAAAFpo/99A2nMUm2U4/s320/RIMG0200.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
The room we got was not too big but very clean. No shoes inside. Simple decor, with an aircon and a fan. Shower was not very strong but hot. If you can, get a room upstairs at there's no soundproofing. We had a family with 3 young kids upstairs and all we heard was kids screaming and stampeding for hours on end.
<table align="center" cellpadding="0">
<tr>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gc45CSz86B8/UwYAMwDJtgI/AAAAAAAAFpw/lMefiBoDoM0/s1600/RIMG0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gc45CSz86B8/UwYAMwDJtgI/AAAAAAAAFpw/lMefiBoDoM0/s400/RIMG0203.JPG" /></a>
</td>
<td align="center">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxqIGJapwwo/UwYATTDZXnI/AAAAAAAAFp4/1t_yeX226iY/s1600/RIMG0206.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxqIGJapwwo/UwYATTDZXnI/AAAAAAAAFp4/1t_yeX226iY/s400/RIMG0206.JPG" /></a>
</td>
</tr></table>
<b>Wifi</b> is quite slow but it works. Same-day laundry at 10,000 kip per kilo.Owner is a man of few words (I don't think he speaks much English) but he seemed nice. If you want some place cheaper, <b><a href="http://monthinlaos.blogspot.com/2014/02/phongboun-guesthouse.html">Phongboun Guesthouse</a></b> has decent rooms.redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-84865993479674120832014-02-20T04:02:00.001-08:002014-02-26T06:50:59.412-08:00Phousi Hill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yet_bZA0is4/UwW9rqshidI/AAAAAAAAFnE/Yty88J6s4kY/s1600/RIMG0222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yet_bZA0is4/UwW9rqshidI/AAAAAAAAFnE/Yty88J6s4kY/s400/RIMG0222.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0FqSUSgYEoc/UwW8svZrolI/AAAAAAAAFms/8ATFFKxuAxg/s1600/RIMG0221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0FqSUSgYEoc/UwW8svZrolI/AAAAAAAAFms/8ATFFKxuAxg/s400/RIMG0221.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-obbNSLrgL04/UwW9lZ77pzI/AAAAAAAAFm4/LxNxNPGUOdo/s1600/RIMG0227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-obbNSLrgL04/UwW9lZ77pzI/AAAAAAAAFm4/LxNxNPGUOdo/s400/RIMG0227.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hITjl4t1FL0/UwW9r5KZlJI/AAAAAAAAFnI/eG5W4WPGFtA/s1600/RIMG0230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hITjl4t1FL0/UwW9r5KZlJI/AAAAAAAAFnI/eG5W4WPGFtA/s400/RIMG0230.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-9OPRo1MXY/UwW-gqsn3kI/AAAAAAAAFnU/ZlrNwGasi18/s1600/RIMG0234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-9OPRo1MXY/UwW-gqsn3kI/AAAAAAAAFnU/ZlrNwGasi18/s400/RIMG0234.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJzro2iTxQY/UwW-qdzjHTI/AAAAAAAAFnk/QJ-iPJabANQ/s1600/RIMG0236.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJzro2iTxQY/UwW-qdzjHTI/AAAAAAAAFnk/QJ-iPJabANQ/s400/RIMG0236.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mk4BSC_wt8k/UwW-p4F_qJI/AAAAAAAAFng/LcU3-ClBuX4/s1600/RIMG0247.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mk4BSC_wt8k/UwW-p4F_qJI/AAAAAAAAFng/LcU3-ClBuX4/s400/RIMG0247.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUQ52HVNyu0/UwW_PvyFeAI/AAAAAAAAFn0/8kiMtT04Eco/s1600/RIMG0257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KUQ52HVNyu0/UwW_PvyFeAI/AAAAAAAAFn0/8kiMtT04Eco/s400/RIMG0257.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P36xRRodqoY/UwW_HxzMM2I/AAAAAAAAFns/urg7uNHyB9c/s1600/RIMG0256.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P36xRRodqoY/UwW_HxzMM2I/AAAAAAAAFns/urg7uNHyB9c/s400/RIMG0256.JPG" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfq5_WxUKJs/Uw3_IrCAtZI/AAAAAAAAF3o/6Te0DY8LJ7U/s1600/RIMG0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kfq5_WxUKJs/Uw3_IrCAtZI/AAAAAAAAF3o/6Te0DY8LJ7U/s400/RIMG0010.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-54126746691287890982014-02-20T00:02:00.000-08:002014-02-20T00:02:07.539-08:00Wat Xieng ThongWhile most temples are free for anyone to wander in, it costs <b>20,000 kip</b> to enter <b>Wat Xieng Thong</b>.
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fTZ-pvSG1lY/UwWyW8IitPI/AAAAAAAAFjw/KJ6DsAa_qY8/s1600/RIMG0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fTZ-pvSG1lY/UwWyW8IitPI/AAAAAAAAFjw/KJ6DsAa_qY8/s400/RIMG0017.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KozGvyzT0nM/UwW0EY2wRvI/AAAAAAAAFkE/3Es-D4d-NHk/s1600/RIMG0020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KozGvyzT0nM/UwW0EY2wRvI/AAAAAAAAFkE/3Es-D4d-NHk/s400/RIMG0020.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3QxMLSXW44Y/UwWygn4B3uI/AAAAAAAAFj4/ZlG4FoU3grQ/s1600/RIMG0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3QxMLSXW44Y/UwWygn4B3uI/AAAAAAAAFj4/ZlG4FoU3grQ/s400/RIMG0019.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpJTzuZrVjY/UwW0Or24E9I/AAAAAAAAFkM/9D65bMhr3sY/s1600/RIMG0021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hpJTzuZrVjY/UwW0Or24E9I/AAAAAAAAFkM/9D65bMhr3sY/s400/RIMG0021.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUG2BM2Yil0/UwWwp55kQlI/AAAAAAAAFjc/-CwiMmlblDU/s1600/RIMG0006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUG2BM2Yil0/UwWwp55kQlI/AAAAAAAAFjc/-CwiMmlblDU/s400/RIMG0006.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PiRh6y0eKdI/UwWyIGCKWzI/AAAAAAAAFjo/rbxF23KjQ4o/s1600/RIMG0009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PiRh6y0eKdI/UwWyIGCKWzI/AAAAAAAAFjo/rbxF23KjQ4o/s400/RIMG0009.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GzOeVXHNFd8/UwW16NrIYFI/AAAAAAAAFko/roVFzOkYkjo/s1600/RIMG0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GzOeVXHNFd8/UwW16NrIYFI/AAAAAAAAFko/roVFzOkYkjo/s400/RIMG0022.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vyreg5AxXBU/UwW0dSDqMpI/AAAAAAAAFkU/L9qOqMGjmIU/s1600/RIMG0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vyreg5AxXBU/UwW0dSDqMpI/AAAAAAAAFkU/L9qOqMGjmIU/s400/RIMG0025.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--0NpIz2cbIk/UwW2AltZMwI/AAAAAAAAFkw/Kf2r34oyVEA/s1600/RIMG0028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--0NpIz2cbIk/UwW2AltZMwI/AAAAAAAAFkw/Kf2r34oyVEA/s400/RIMG0028.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OcHl3cPUIIA/UwW1qOU17UI/AAAAAAAAFkg/E2Ujbw9L0yo/s1600/RIMG0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OcHl3cPUIIA/UwW1qOU17UI/AAAAAAAAFkg/E2Ujbw9L0yo/s400/RIMG0044.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQtBaC6qjb0/UwW2P5uPQ5I/AAAAAAAAFk4/uqas1O_GoDM/s1600/RIMG0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pQtBaC6qjb0/UwW2P5uPQ5I/AAAAAAAAFk4/uqas1O_GoDM/s400/RIMG0075.JPG" /></a></div>
redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-61105710798154282152014-02-19T22:48:00.002-08:002014-02-19T23:02:28.337-08:00Markets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLy8IF5T17c/UwWnRmTYEJI/AAAAAAAAFhw/aig7LOXL13k/s1600/RIMG0242.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLy8IF5T17c/UwWnRmTYEJI/AAAAAAAAFhw/aig7LOXL13k/s400/RIMG0242.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZA0UmYjbKo/UwWnP8D9RPI/AAAAAAAAFhk/MfilikcvU3Q/s1600/RIMG0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZA0UmYjbKo/UwWnP8D9RPI/AAAAAAAAFhk/MfilikcvU3Q/s400/RIMG0019.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vAP5Ki77gLE/UwWoUbog_3I/AAAAAAAAFiA/qG5-uqURhGQ/s1600/RIMG0217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vAP5Ki77gLE/UwWoUbog_3I/AAAAAAAAFiA/qG5-uqURhGQ/s400/RIMG0217.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8R-1I3dmzUA/UwWnQrhlieI/AAAAAAAAFhs/f1xw6N_vLOo/s1600/RIMG0188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8R-1I3dmzUA/UwWnQrhlieI/AAAAAAAAFhs/f1xw6N_vLOo/s400/RIMG0188.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tL3T411XIt4/UwWoXQGIEjI/AAAAAAAAFiI/HdYXEP1Dx-4/s1600/RIMG0218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tL3T411XIt4/UwWoXQGIEjI/AAAAAAAAFiI/HdYXEP1Dx-4/s400/RIMG0218.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1560212773063573674.post-47673434587925898362014-02-19T22:17:00.002-08:002014-02-19T22:17:34.810-08:00Old Bridge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5MAVcy1cPc/UwWbUAylNVI/AAAAAAAAFgU/ydnMJL2eaHY/s1600/RIMG0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5MAVcy1cPc/UwWbUAylNVI/AAAAAAAAFgU/ydnMJL2eaHY/s400/RIMG0022.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8cBqPdqUCus/UwWctCS1TlI/AAAAAAAAFgo/UDn8lpqn5-A/s1600/RIMG0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8cBqPdqUCus/UwWctCS1TlI/AAAAAAAAFgo/UDn8lpqn5-A/s400/RIMG0029.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uhO7Cb8uYFg/UwWdBfdUo9I/AAAAAAAAFgw/C28sw2YbKt8/s1600/RIMG0026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uhO7Cb8uYFg/UwWdBfdUo9I/AAAAAAAAFgw/C28sw2YbKt8/s400/RIMG0026.JPG" /></a></div>redeyebluezhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18290625883933453006noreply@blogger.com