I had some great food and rest in Luang Prabang and I needed it. Now I feel ready to tackle some of the hills out of here. I certainly didn’t feel like that 4 days ago.
I also met Miles and Claire, two bike tourers from the UK who were at the end of their trip. It was so nice to hang out with these two in such a laid back town. I can see how different it would be riding with others. I look forward to catching up with them next year in the UK.
There are so many food options here, and smoothies at most corners, so I’m in heaven.
When I arrived, I was really concerned about the hills on the ride to Phonsavan and Vietnam, but after a couple of days, that anxiety left me and I started to become enthused about the next stage of my trip. I also did some planning and discovered that if I’m to make it to Bangkok on time, I’ll need to get moving.
In fact, sitting around for a few days in the one place is probably not possible from here on.
It’s for this reason I decided to skip any trekking in Nong Khiaw. I may also need a train or two along the way. I’m ok with that, as this feels like the turnaround point of my trip, and from here, I’m heading homewards.
I’m also excited to go to Vietnam. My only experience there is 2-3 days in Hanoi about 10 years ago.
So, I planned a route and got some great feedback from Andrew Haycraft – thanks for that. It makes the world of difference.
But first comes Phonsavan and the Plain of Jars. Today, I’m doing a short ride out of LP and tomorrow will be a difficult day. After that, things should be slightly more manageable up to the border and then it’s onto some welcome flat Vietnamese roads for a while.
Any mention of LP wouldn’t be complete without talking about Mali House where I stayed. It’s the most friendly, welcoming guesthouse of my trip. Andy and Venus can’t do enough for you. I maintain that the experience at a hotel or guesthouse is a reflection on the hosts, and these people are the best.
