After crossing into Laos at 11.45am we were told to wait for our visa (which had already been stamped) to be 'authorised', which took until 12.05pm - exactly 5 mintues after the last bus left the town meaning we had to spend 24 hours in Huay Xai, the world's most boring town!! The next day we headed east to Udomxai (a small stopover town) on what appeared to be a surprisingly modern bus. One hour into the 9 hour (330km!) journey however, the 'engine oil' warning light and alarm started, much to the driver's bemusement! Dave tried to tell them what it meant, but with poor charades skills, they remained oblivious and their resolution was to turn the radio up to 'deafening' and continue on the journey! However, we eventually arrived into town, and had a
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