Laos 2007 - photographs now uploaded
Luang Prabang - a sleepy town filled with temples on the banks of the Mekon river. Although there is a strong backpacker influence, there are also many eating places that serve excellent Laos dishes. The early morning market is a good place to see some of the local wildlife - albeit in a somewhat deceased state - but be prepared for a 05:00 am start. The tastiest morsels - small mammals, larvae and tortoises - get sold soonest! The hotel was excellent - a few minutes away from the centre of of town but otherwise very well run.
Ventianne - a capital city that hums with some of the energy missing from Luang Prabang. The That Luang stupa is magnificent - built in the 16th century, destoyed by the Thai invasion of the 19th century and later restored to the original design. The Seetha Palace Hotel looks great, but suffers from indifferent staff. Enough said.
