Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is a small city in the North of Laos. It has a population of roughly 25,000 but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in beauty.

The French ruled the area that is now Laos earlier this century and as a result they have left behind tell tale signs such as: Good coffee, baked goods, French architecture and an abundance of French speaking tourists.

The coffee and baguettes are really tasty as the photo below indicates.

On our first full day in the town we thought we'd have a good look around. Hiring bicycles was an economical, and stylish option. Although they do only have one speed so you need some momentum before taking on any sort of hill.

We rode unbelievably far. I'm not sure what we were thinking but at the end of it we were both buggered and in need of a rest and a soft cushion. One speed bikes in the sweltering heat really take it out of you.

Arguably the best thing about Luang Prabang is the waterfall park (Kouang Si) which is located about 30 minutes from the town. The park is simply amazing and the largest waterfall is spectacular.


There is a very steep track to the right hand side of the waterfall. We both climbed it and walked around up above the waterfall - a safe distance from the edge. With a bit of climbing and swimming we found some good views and other mini waterfalls which aren't visible from the bottom.


After looking at the largest waterfall it was time for a swim in one of the swimming areas. Very relaxing and surprisingly warm as you can see from the photo of Clint below.

Later that day a group of us went and visited a temple on a hill in the centre of the town. The view was really great and it coincided with the sunsetting - it was romantic enough to draw plenty of "ough's" and "argh's" from the couples that decided to join us.


Highlights:

- The French influence. Fine dining and impressive architecture that is slowly deteriorating.
- Curfew loophole. All the bars have to close at midnight so everyone goes bowling (ten pin). The place somehow has an exemption and stays open until 3am.
- The Laos attitude - laid back and carefree. No one pesters you to buy their wares!
- The "Krispy" biscuit flavoured treats that we found at a market. Presumably made from rice they were piping hot and for 5 at 5000kip ($1 NZD) they were fantastic - a reward is on offer for anyone who know's the recipe.

Random Fact:

-A popular rumour on the traveller grapevine is that to date a Laos person a foreigner must first acquire a license to do so. Fact or fiction? We like to think fact.

Lessons Learned:
- To rapidly check out a small town you can't beat a bicycle for some cheap fun.
- If you elect to climb the hill to watch the sunset in Luang Prabang ensure that you wear long pants and long sleeves. As the sun sets the dinghy mosquito's change guard with the malaria mosquito's and neither is afraid of insect repellant with deet as an ingredient so a feeding frenzy ensues.