Escape to Laos

Two days ago, we left from the Thai border town of Chiang Kong and crossed the river into Laos. We took a 2 day slow boat down the Mekong river to Luang Prabang. Slow really means slow. We were on the boat for about 7-8 hours each day sitting on small wooden benches. But, aside from the sore bottom I am feeling great. We were smart enough to get the seats toward the front of the boat so the engine wasn't drowning out the soft lap of the water on the sides of the boat. Mark and I opted for the floor part of the time, and it was much more comfortable. We met many new people on the boat many who were traveling anywhere from 2-6 months. I guess our idea wasn't so original =)

Luang Prabang...well, it is by far the most relaxing place we have been to. We walked the small streets last night, that were lined with 19th century french architecture. Here cafes and restaurants abound gleaming with soft yellow light reflecting off the shiny dark wood furniture and paneled walls. It was a comforting sight. This place is full of the average tourists and hippie backpackers. It is a mix of travelers, but far from the teeming crowds we encountered in Thailand. As far as first impressions go Laos has me sold.

Right now, it is daylight and some of the magic has faded with the presence of the sun. But the calming nature of the place has not been lost upon me yet.