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As we climbed
yet another range heading south it became apparent that all of the bad
road was not behind us. We also saw a lot more places that were being
slashed (below).
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| In the photo at
left is a spot where a slide had taken out half
of the road. Eventually the road improved somewhat and serpentined
through some great countryside with little more than the occasional
pedestrian to impede our progress. |
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In
the handful of villages that we did come across it was obvious that all
family members were called upon to contribute. Aidan and Cameron, and
Evan and Emma take note.
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If Luang
Prabang is a home away from home to a large number of
well heeled, middle-aged, European nouveau colonialists, Vang Vieng is
where their younger, hipper little sisters go. Great limestone karst
formations within walking distance from town and decent whitewater
attract climbers and kayakers, as well as those who just want to hole
up
in a shack on an island in the Nam Song. It is also a
favorite destination for caving. The karst formations across the river
from our guesthouse changed with the light and changing clouds from
hour to hour.
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Wooden
footbridges connected the town to the island with its bamboo huts and
party bars, and to the opposite shore. In town, markets selling fresh
and dried fish (below right) enjoy a thriving local clientele, while a
half dozen restaurants cater to the younger tourist crowd with western
fare and large screen TVs with nightly screenings of 'Friends' re-runs.
The town is even home to a Viet Nam era airstrip.
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