If you have read a few of my journal entries then you already know that riding in the VIP Mini-Buses in third world countries is quite an adventure. What I have failed to mention is that these same mini-buses are luxurious when compared to the local bus service. As a result, I am usually too much of a wimp to take the local service, but when I do, all of the stereotypes almost always come true just as they did on my trip from Vang Vien to Vietienne in Laos. ...

Tubing, caves, kayaking, and TV-Bars (most of which are replaying Friends over and over again) pretty well sums up Vang Vien. It is a cool little town that is getting ruined by its popularity. Yes, I contributed to the problem, but it's cool none the less. In short, no one in town has to worry about high blood pressure. I was not a big fan of the caving as it was one big accident waiting to happen due to the slick rocks and endless amount of mud. The tub...

This is a case where pictures just don't do justice to the real thing. The van was of course way, way over-packed, and the journey took longer than the scheduled five hours. As an added bonus, we even broke down along the way. The view however was amazing. All things considered, the road was pretty darn good. I say all things considered because it was one winding mountain turn after another coupled with occasional land slides (mostly mud but sometimes roc...

I've had two long-winded journal entries in a row, so here is a treat. Luang Prabang has its only special vibe. You have to experience it to "get it". There are some nice Wats, the canoe races, cheap eats and sleeps, and the alms for the Monks is quite cool.. If you are ever in Southeast Asia, it's a must.

In short, it was three days of boredom, beauty, and eye opening experiences. The journey to Luang Prabang from Chiang Mai is definitely not for the casual traveler, but with some time and lots of patience it proved to be well worth it. The trip from Chiang Mai began with the requisite nine passenger, four-cylinder, cargo van that is stuffed with ten people plus everyone's huge backpacks, and of course it always leave way behind the scheduled time. On top o...