Leaving Chang Mai was a sad time as we knew that we were probably saying goodbye to Thailand forever. We had a great time but i feel that by the time of our childrens generation are travelling, Thailand will be one giant McDonalds, McIrish bar, Mcs***1990's music, McKavos and pretty much McNot much different to Malia. The demand from the West has taken the country to a new place, and the culture now feels like a country offering a museum display of what the country used to be.

The night bus journey was not great, as the floods had affected the roads leading up to the boarder and the minivan we were travelling in had to act like a James Bond style car boat on a few occassions.

Still, the long journey was worth it, at times it did feel like it was impossible that we were still travelling but on our arrival to Vientiane, it was well worth it.

We did think a few times, "i know we have been travelling for days but surely we havnt got all the way to France?!" This place literally looked like a tiny French village, chateux type buildings, little markets and water fountains on cobbled streets.

The street stalls we selling pastries, cheese and awesome baguettes. The French had definately left their mark!

We were so impressed with the French influence that we ate in a lovely place called "Nazim Indian Curry House." twice..... The food was amazing. I love Curry. I still love Fanta.

It wasnt that we weren't amazed by the French european influence in this landlocked Asian country, it was just that this Indian Food was insainely good.

Being the capital of Laos, (even though it was probably the size of Hyde Park) we visited Museums and soaked up some history. These people have been battered by almost everyone over history. The most bombed country in history.... poor little asian migits....they really are little.

I visited the Laos National stadium, and it certainly wasnt a Wembley, with slightly less than the 85,000 capacity. My guess was it could hold about 2,500 and one day, it may have even had grass on its "football pitch."

Not a huge amount to do in Vientiane, but a lovely little capital city. Next stop is Vang Vien. So far so good for Laos.

note to self:

too many baguettes will make us fat

too many baguettes will make us fat

Peace and Flip Flops

Nic and Katie xx