I've had an excellent day in Luang Pabang.

Last night I visited the night Market which wasn't too far from where I'm staying.

After a decent nights' sleep I woke up early and made use of the complimentary coffee and Banana service at the guesthouse.

I decided to hire a Bicycle for the day which was hard work at times when cycling in 35 degree heat.

It is however the most time and cost effective way of seeing a city in a short period.

The main attraction I visited was the "Wat Tham Phu Si", which is a temple at the top of a cliff. This provided a fantastic panoramic view of Luang Pabang. The steps leading up to the top were hard work, but well worth the effort.

For lunch I ate a pineapple by the riverside. As you can tell I'm having a healthy day today (that reminds me I haven't done my daily dose of press ups!)

A day like today was much needed as Vang Vieng certainly took it out of me.

Tonight I intend to grab an early night as I need to be awake at 5am to catch my flight to Bangkok.

I do really like Laos, and I'm certainly going to return here in high season so I can give it a better chance. The rain did put a dampener on 3 of my 10 days here.

I like the laid back attitude. You don't seem to get hassled like what you do in other countries in south east Asia. In addition, the prices are so low to begin with you don't need to barter them down (all the Canadian people I've met will enjoy that!)

For now, this is goodbye, but I will certainly be back in the near future. Heading back to Bangkok feels like I'm travelling home in a strange sense. I'm looking forward to heading to the islands in the south where I will hopefully enhance the tan!