Left Thailand early in the morning and enterd Laos. Thanks to Nok our guide the process was effortless. We were moved about in two minivans which were very comfortable.
Then spent two days on a slow boat taking us along the Mekong River to Luang Prabang. About eight hours each day on the boat. The boats are the same ones that have been used for years to transport goods along the river. Seats had been added to carry passengers. Not fancy but quite authentic. The first day was overcast and cool (about 15 degrees). We felt this all the more as the boats are open on the sides. Lunch was served on the boat both days; a fine feast each day.
The hills on either side of the river are dotted with villages where people live seemingly as they have for many years, except they now have electricity and TV! The education of children seems to be a priority and all children go to school and are sent away for their senior years
The night of the 18th we stopped at a small town along the river (Pak Beng) and spent the night at a modest but very adequate little hotel. Supper at a local restaurant was very good.
The second day, the 19th, the clouds disappeared and were replaced by blue sky. After lunch we visited Pak Ou caves, which were filled with hundreds of buddhas.
We arrived in Luang Prabang mid-day on the 19th, which left time for a wander before heading for the night market, and supper at the Tamarind.
Our boat, the green one
Inside the boat
Village along the Mekong
Pak Beng market
Hotel at Pak Beng
Inside Pak Ou cave
