Luang Prabang - Loas

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Loas - the Asian country that has been least explored by tourists, or so we are told. We hit the land of Loas on the 18th of July. This meant crossing the border at Chiang Kong (Thailand) to Huay Xai, on the Loas side. This was done in pelting rain, so fun was had by all. Once on the other side of the mighty Mekong River, the tourists are all shoved into a slow boat, a very long and un-water-tight vessel that boasts really hard seats, to be shipped down the muddy Mekong to a small town called Luang Prabang.

On the way to Luang Prabang, however, we had an overnight stop at a small town called Pak Beng. Nats and I checked into our room and took in the veiw of the Mekong as it slowly slid past. However, other than magnificent scenery, the town doesn't have too much going for it.

We arrived in Luang Prabang after a long 7 hour trip, and found residence in a super old French chateau - Loas was once part of the prolific French Indochina realm. This means that most of Loas has beautiful old french houses lining the streets as well as the ever-present baguette, which is much loved buy all tourists who are sick of rice or noodles.

We took in the sights and walked around the town, needless to say we have now seen a total of 7 012 958 Buddhas in an array of countries....

So far Loas is beautiful and peaceful and both of us are really glad that we made the choice to add it to our itinerary.

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Photos

Slow Boat
time well spent on a two day slow boat

Mekong
The veiw over the Mekong from Pak Beng, in the mist.

Slow Boats
The view down to the slow boats. So many to use however all the tourists are shoved onto one, loved the trip.

Luang Prabang
Luke with Wat in background

View from the Top
Photo taken from the top of mountain of Luang Prabang

Crossing the Mekong
Pad Ou caves are situated in Limestone on the bank of the mighty Mekong River...we took a boat taxi to have a look at the 4000 odd Buddhas in these caves.

Pad Ou caves
As we cross the river, the caves and tourists greet us

Nats and Big B
Nats sends well wishes home.

View out of Pad Ou Caves
Buddha looks over the river

Cave entrance
Pad Ou has two caves. This cave's entrance was up long and winding stairs, but still beautiful once you get there!

Luang Prabang Royal Temple
Pretty amazing

Tuk tuk drivers
Will literally take you off your feet!!