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Published: April 21st 2007
It was relatively easy getting across the Cambodia/Lao border. Had to pay $5 on the Cambodian side for motorbike paperwork that I was supposed to have. This was likely a fabrication, but it is pretty hard to argue with these guys when I am at the edge of the forest in the middle of nowhere and can't read the forms.
I headed straight for Si Phan Don (aka the 4000 Islands). As the name suggests, this is a point in the Mekong where the river widens out and slows down, creating 1000's of small sand and rock islands. A few of the larger islands have villages, guesthouses and restaurants.
I left the bike with a restaurant on the beach and hopped on one of the little ferries to Don Det. I crashed directly into a number of Lao new years parties that tend to start early in the day and go on and on. Electrical supply is limited on this island and the generators are typically turned off at 10 or 11 at night, so I guess you have to start early!
The locals are very welcoming and liked to share the love (and Beerlao). There was
much dancing to Lao tunes and western-style club beats alike.
Don Det is otherwise a quiet place with a few motorbikes, but mostly people get around on foot or by bicycle. There's wonderful swimming, islets and rapids to explore, sandy beaches, rustic bungalows on stilts and hammocks galore.
I met lots of lovely people. A great place to chill out for a few days.
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Mekong River view (east)
Chris Bradley
non-member comment
Nice!
I didn't know you were embarking on another worldwide journey. The pictures are great. It is amazing to see how simply people live! Carson is now if French immersion and doing well. Milena is of course on the other side of the Globe in ITaly! We look forward to more trip highlights. The Bradley's