13th - 15th June 2009

Nikki and I really felt like we had arrived in the middle of nowhere after the long boat trip when a man met us at the shore with a sign with our names on it. The air conditioned van back to the resort could have been a limousine it was such a change.

On arrival Nikki's strange mood of excitement made sense as Mum, Dad, Ben and Mojgan were waiting for us at the lovely resort that Mum and Dad had arranged for Nikki and I to stay in for my thirtieth birthday. It was such surprise I couldn't hold back the tears.

We had some more drinks together and a Birthday Cake from the Managers of the resort that said "Happy Birthday Same Nikki" on it. They almost got it right….Same Same.

After a bit of extreme frisbie with Ben and Dad at the resort we went to a Temple on the top of a hill and released some birds from tiny cages. We also went to the night markets which are always fun, especially with a beer in your hand.

As Lao had a lot of French influence they drive on the other side of the road there. We all nearly were run over a few times.

We made a trip out to some awesome waterfalls. They were cascading from one to the next, about four large main pools in total. One had a smallish rope swing and I managed to partially dislocate my shoulder on it trying a back flip. Ooops. They were an amazing beautiful blue colour and everyone got in for a swim.

It was such a great surprise having some family there and Nikki did well to keep it all from me. It was a surreal experience traveling around town with them and enjoying the sights and culture together. Thanks very much for making the trip over guys; I hope you enjoyed it as much as us.