Zelma’s Trip

On Sunday I got up and checked out (much to my disappointment).  I had planned to get money sorted out prior to leaving the capital but after nearly having had my card eaten twice I failed miserably so gave up and hoped that I would be able to get money out further North.

I took a bus from Vientiane to Vang Viang 155km North of the capital.  Vang Viang has become a popular spot for travelers and with the numeorus outdoor activities on offer and the beautiful limestone karst scenery, caves and river you can see why!  I checked into somewhere relatively central ate and had a relatively lazy night.

This morning I decided that I wanted to move accommodation.  The place I was in was very cheap and basic which was not a problem but it was pretty characterless and concrete and the reason that the cistern had no top on became very apparent!  I wondered about and found a lovely place with bungalows by the river where I have checked in.  It’s also not right in the centre and is a bit quieter with locals’ houses around.

I’m planning to go tubing tomorrow which basically entails floating down the river on a tractor inner tube which is something that everyone appears to do whilst they stay here.  I’ve also discovered a great alternative to my watermelon juice from Vietnam.  It’s a twist on the lemon juice which I loved in the North and is lemon juice and mint.  It does look like some kind of rancid swamp but tastes and smells delicious.  I still haven’t got over the greatness of fresh fruit juice and smoothies yet!