Mystical Luang Prabang

Here in up-country Laos seems a world away from the A13 or M62. Cradled in a crease of the Mekong you’ll slow down, relax and enjoy the hopitality of truly warm and generous hosts

The last decent dance rave I went to was in the foothills of northern Laos. Nong Khiaw was the place, no Fat Boy Slim or Pete Tong, just Apsara dancing and local fire water to induce friendship.

Further north up the winding road to China villagers will turn out to view your progress. Whether you’re flaxen haired or dread-locked, it’s different to those eyes, but you won’t get an unfriendly Dodge City experience!

Vientiane will be a tranquil glimpse to a past Indochina, relaxed, antiquities begging to be explored and as ever the people providing the main resource of interest.

The rolling Mekong caresses Pakxe in the south in a picturesque arc around the town and if rural small town life and scenery is your style then take in this sleepy place for an unwinding experience

Luang Prabang remains the cultural jewel in the crown in Laos, it’s becoming busier, but is still an enchanting place with so many Buddhist temples and inquisitive monks ready to enquire about your world if you’ve an open mind and silver tongue!