We hoped onto another small boat to take us over to Don Daeng, which was about 40 minutes away. As we were approaching this small island in the middle of the Mekong River, something just didn’t seem right – there was no people to be seen – just a secluded beach with a small dirt path leading into some trees. As we got the bike of the small boat a sense of adventure come rushing over me – This is what I had been seeking. It took us at least 10 minutes driving around the island before we saw a farmer!
As I was driving round the island looking for the La Folie Hotel (I later found out we had got dropped off on the other side of the island were the hotel was located), I was blown away by how friendly the locals were. I’d say 80% of the adults and 100% of the kids were screaming “sabidee” – Why can’t everywhere be this friendly?
After checking into the La Folie Hotel (Best hotel I’ve stayed at in Laos), I was eager to hire one of their bicycles and explore more of the island. It was great to cycle along for 20minutes and then stop off somewhere and get some water – which also gave me a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.
After 4 hours of cycling, it was great to be able to dip into the pool, get some email done and enjoy the best dinner I have eaten in Laos – Smoked Salmon, Rib Eye steak with mash washed down with a nice bottle of red.
Just as we were ending our meal, the manager who I had gotten to know well over the course of the day invited us to the beach once he had finished work. With the moon glowing above, the sound of the Mekong a few meet away, the great atmosphere a fire creates along with new friends made this a truly memorial night.
As most of my long term readers know, I am currently dedicating this year to travel looking for a new “home” – Hanoi is already on the list, and I’ve now added Don Daeng – Yes, it doesn’t have a lot of the stuff I need – But wow – It’s the closest thing to “paradise” I have found as yet.
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