A VERY early start this morning to observe the morning alms giving ceremony where monks walk through town in single file carrying their alms bowls to give laypeople the opportunity to offer alms and gain merit. Offerings by the people are usually comprised of sticky rice, fruit or simple traditional snacks. Known as Binthabat in Lao, this is a sacred religious ceremony and a spectacular scene that happens every day in Luang Prabang. Whilst people can take photos ...

After having a lovely fresh breakfast at our guesthouse we returned to the slow boat, made an offering to the gods for a safe journey and continued our leisurely cruise down the Mekong River. Started off in the mist but as the sun rose we were once again all delighted by the scenery and having the opportunity to gain insights into the local rural life of the Lao people. We were rapt when we got to visit a local village and meet the local people. Peregrine Tours ...