Luang Prabang

Nestled where the Nam Khan joins the Mekong river Luang Prabang was a desired posting for the french colonialists and your left not wondering why. Beauty is everywhere here, from the temples, sunsets, waterfalls and caves to the true attraction, the people. Luang Prabang was our first stop in Laos, apart from the border crossing, and one of the most memorable.

The nearby waterfalls was a natural amusement park which provided a welcome/celebratory escape from the heat. Clear and cool water, shaded by the jungle around you, I didn't really want to leave.

A five dollar rope = endless amusement. You can also jump from the falls behind it into the pool.

The elusive european Tarzan, recognizable by the ever present banana-hammock.

The life near the road on our return to town.

Heading into the other surrounding hills in search of another waterfall on bike brought us up this road and past many people bringing goods gathered in the jungle. It's interesting how so many people still rely on their ancestral skills to make ends meet.

Some things just look better in B&W. But to be honest I simply like the sign.

One of the many temples in one of the many temple complexes in Luang Prabang.

Same building with a hint of the huge dragon float.

One of the days we went to the other side of the Mekong. You get hassled for boat trips which cost a fortune ($20) but you can take the public ferry for less than a dollar and explore on foot if you choose and we did.

Before the crossing.

The first monk we say was working the weed wacker... they have to keep up the grounds and a sickle doesn't cut it. Again the integration of new and old which seems a common theme in Asia.

At one point we paid to enter one of the many caves which serve as final resting places of Buddha statues. The guide came with the ticket and one flashlight. The cave was wet, dark, and dangerously slippery. The photos don't due justice as I didn't bring my flash so you'll have to do without.

Another monk relaxing at the water's edge.

The last temple we visited was at the top of a long flight of stairs, we arrived for sunset and a glass of coconut milk shared with the monks.

Our return trip showed the Mekong at dusk.

This is actually from our return trip from the waterfall but I keep the panos for last as is my wont.