Literacy Program in Laos: Big Brother Mouse
Big Brother Mouse Literacy Program A highlight of our visit to Luang Prabang was volunteering at The Big Brother Mouse literacy program headquarters. The project, which began in 2006, is Lao-owned and operated, and based in Luang Prabang. Big Brother Mouse publishes books in the Lao language (as well as in Lao/English), an important contribution, as there […]
Travel Budget Laos: Counting Kip
Travel Budget Laos Although our time there was much shorter than we wanted, Laos left a lasting impression on us both and a thirst to return. When asked about our favorite destinations, Laos always makes the list. This landlocked land has faced more than its share of turmoil, but visitors today will find a peaceful […]
5 Fun Southeast Asian Taxis
From the simple cyclo to the most decked-out, sparkly tuk tuk, getting a ride in Southeast Asia is an adventure. Having evolved from the need to navigate narrow streets quickly, efficiently and cheaply, these vehicles can whisk you from one side of town to the other, usually with ease. Just be sure to negotiate a […]
Reflection: Laos
One of our favorite stops! Laos is a truly amazing place. Check out some of our favorite shots from our too-short time there.
My Ever Changing Name
After traveling in Asia for the last 9 months I’ve come up with an observation. I’m not sure if I’m the only person who feels this way or if other travelers share my same bit of humor about it. Here it is. In countries that are not native English speaking there is a common rhythm […]
2011 Photo Roundup
South Korea Knowing less about South Korea than either Japan or China made for some wonderful surprises. A rich, colorful culture and curious, helpful people made our visit here one of true discovery. China Size and numbers, that’s China. Too big to possibly ever know then whole country and more people than imaginable. With thousands […]
Capital Border Town Vientiane
Our journey from Luang Namtha to Luang Prabang was over one of the few paved roads in Laos, and it was rough. The rainy season wreaks havoc with landslides, bridges out, chunks of road cracked or missing and overflowed rivers and streams. We saw plenty of examples, and felt lucky to have made it safely […]
Coffee Shake Confluence
The heart of Laos: Luang Prabang. Royal capital and seat of government until the communists took over in 1975, Luang Prabang retains its romantic atmosphere, magnificent wats, French provincial architecture and surrounding natural beauty. Walking the streets of the old town you can understand why the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You […]
Luang Namtha: Gone Green
With its proximity to the Nam Ha National Protected Area, and abundant activities for trekking, kayaking, cycling and rafting, Luang Namtha is a prime ecotourism destination in northern Laos. Laos still doesn’t receive nearly as many tourists as neighboring Thailand. This, combined with an extremely laid-back culture, makes a visit seem very peaceful. Everything moves […]
Doing Lines and Flying High in Laos
Contrary to what we’d heard, crossing the border from (Chiang Khong) Thailand to (Huay Xai) Laos was a breeze. We arrived late in the afternoon and were the only ones at immigration. Thailand stamped us out with a smile, and we got in a longtail boat with two Thai ladies to cross the Mekong River. […]