Lao, Land of hill and rivers.

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We've been in Lao for about five days now and it is the most friendly county you could imagine. With it's French influenced architecture and food, this charming country is a treat for the eyes and the stomach.

After the cruise down the Mekong we stopped in Luang Prabang. From here we did several side trips, the best of which was the elephant riding and zip-line. Not at the same time though.

The other highlight was the procession of the monks collecting alms at 6am in the morning. I know most of you are thinking Leslie and 6am rarely get used in the same sentence. It was worth the pain.

Tomorrow we're off to Vientaine and our flight to Vietnam.

More later.

Lesley and Leslie

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Photos

Face of the Mekong
There were thousands of Buddhas in this limestone cave.

Limestone Falls near Luang Prabang.
These falls are also user friendly as swimming pools.

Lesley's Hmong friend.
This lovely lady does intricate hand embroidery in a local market. She's holding some of Lesley's purchases.

Zip lining through the jungle.
Leslie gracefully gliding through the canopy. NOT.

Lesley petting an elephant.
They were so gentle that you could go right up to them and pet them and feed them bananas.

Elephant ride.
We took a ride on the elephants. part of which was along the river.

Three Jumbos
This gentle giant was actually blind. She was a working elephant and was brought to this sanctuary for her retirement.

Mahout Hendy
Leslie got a turn at driving.

Catching some zzzzzz's.
Riding elephants can really take it out of you.

Procession of the Monks at dawn.
There were hundreds of monks collecting their daily food. This happens every day and it's the way that the people support the monks.

Many, many monks.
Morning call to alms.

Comments

[Bruce]

thanks
thank you

[Bruce]

Bruce
Les do they have any cold beers there ?

[Kevin]

Looks like another amazing trip. Everything is so vibrant. Look forward to hearing and seeing more. Travel safe. Kevin

[Janie]

Love the blog
Love the pictures and descriptions! Looks like you guys are having a fantastic time! Miss ya!

[ed]

hey
looks like you're both having a great time - we're envious . . . have fun the rest of the way and be careful