Dear People, For the first time in a while we are back near technology. Since our last postcard have done Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Chiang Khong in Thailand before crossing the border to Laos to Pak Beng and currently in Luang Prabang. Tomorrow we move onto somewhere I can not spell yet but it looks good. Thailand was what you expect really with nothing out of the ordinary, met with some friend in Bangkok from the China trip which stopped the city becoming boring, stayed in a proper backpacker central place full of grotty unwashed dreadlock wearing travellers. Since we have moved to Laos which is v.nice have not seen any of them. Laos is really poor and at our first place we stayed, no hot water or electricity after 10.30pm. But it was right on the Mighty Mekong and the whole place has amazing scenery. Spent 2 whole days on a slow boat down the Mekong. Being a foot taller than the average asian passenger i did not enjoy the first day but got a better seat the 2nd. Arrived in Luang Prabang last night, probably the most unspoilt place we have been to so far, a few westerners and the locals seem to speak good english but for the first time do not have the feeling that they either want to be like you or rip you off. Arrived for their full moon / end of monsoon season celebrations. It was spectacular and to give you a picture, it was like a mix between our guy fawkes night, Harvest festival, the wells carnival on water! Visited a waterfall today, pictures soon when we have more time. (I know you will appreciate it Sinead) Currently travelling with 5 people we met on the slow boat trip, a mix between english and irish who have similar itineries to us for the next few days. No mobile phones here so drop us an email if you need to contact us. Keep well, TTFN Andy and Rachel P.S Someone tell Grandand we saw a Tiger today!