Mekong Slow Boat Trip

To reach Luang Prabang from Houay Xai, we had two options. The faster but more dangerous bus route or a leisurely two-day trip on the slow boat. We chose the latter. The Mekong is a vital artery running through the country supplying both transport and livelihood. Very basic rural villages are scarce and often hidden from sight along the journey but signs of life in the form of fishing nets, traps and river side farming can be seen all along the river. Occasionally we spotted village children swimming at the rivers edge.

Due to the length of the boat trip, we made a compulsory stop at Pak Beng Village, to find food and a bed for the night. Many of the guesthouses a were already full when our boat arrived. Business was booming in this tiny tourist driven village.

Slow Boats Lined Up at Pak Beng Village

When we rose early in the morning to catch the boat again, the local Monks were collecting alms along the street.  This daily ritual of food giving is a sign of humbleness and respect, and it is considered that the more you give without expecting in return, the 'wealthier' you become as a person.

Alms Collection, Pak Beng

While we waited to board the boat, we watched elephants bathing with the mahouts on the other side of the river.  The scenery on the journey from Pak Beng to Luang Prabang was spell binding, the river framed by steep hills scarred by landslips.  We stopped at local villages along the way to drop off people and cargo to eagerly awaiting families.

We arrived in Luang Prabang feeling relaxed but in need of a good stretch and a walk!