We get up to go meet Jaidee. He had offered to take us on a trip where most people do not go. He is not ready so we go for lunch, watching one of the many episodes of friends. Heading back he unfortunately cant go. His sister was in a moped accident a few days back and he needs to go visit her. We finally buy our tickets to Luang Prabang and in between the rain I catch some shut eye. We find another restaurant by the river for some poor chicken and ribs. The lack of Laos cooking skills proving hit or miss.
We sit talking with the Kangaroo bar DJ, a local lad who has seen the town change. With over 30 deaths in one year the government cracked down on the hedonistic ways in the town. Hotels are half built and some families are struggling with the fewer tourists that now turn up.
We return to Jaidee's for the last time, sit and drink with our friends the English lads. We drink a few celebration shots and say our farewells. A pleasure to meet this interesting group.
Vang Vieng is what you make of it. I personally have found some peace here and its a place you can embrace on many levels.