My Egg Noodles

After 27 long days in Mukdahan working my arse off, I’m now back on the road – First stop being Savannakhet in Laos. The plan, although not fixed, is to explore southern Laos, followed by southern Vietnam (both areas I’ve not visited before) and then finally make my way up to China.

Firstly, thanks to everyone who responded to my last post – I got some great suggestions in the comments which I plan to explore a few of them after China. I really do mean it when I say thanks – This is just a personal blog I enjoy updating when I have something to say, and to get that sort of response not only on here but also on Twitter is both amazing and humbling – You guys and girls are awesome!

So, first stop is Laos – bwoy is it great to be back! It’s been a couple of years since I was traveling back and forth between Laos and Thailand and within minutes of arriving a smile quickly spread across my face – I had forget how friendly the Laos people are, the beer so tasty and the women so dam gorgeous!

Savannakhet is a sleepy town with not much to do or see. I spent the day walking around the old town and admiring the French colonial architecture. I’ve had 2 people come up to me and shake my hand – Just being friendly. I’ve stuffed my face with lamb at the superb Cafe Chez Bourne restaurant – Which was amazing considering I’ve been eating Thai food every day for the past few weeks. It’s all good.

Even though nothing spectacular has happened today, I can’t explain how happy I am. As I’ve been grinding out work for 12 hours a day for the last 20 days in a row now – It’s like I’ve been let out of a cage and can now enjoy myself for a while. I’m slowly mastering life/work balance, albeit in my own unique way ;)

The border crossing on the Mukdahan side which was really quite.

This van ferries Thai’s over to the newly opened Casino in Savanakhet. Sadly, they don’t have poker yet.

I’ve seen these printed guides in 2 different establishments today – Great info and there free. It’s almost like the Laos tourism authority is spending money to enhance tourists experience when they get here – rather than spending money attracting tourists and then forgetting about them when they arrive. Although Laos is often seen as the underdog in South East Asia – I’m not sure if this will be the case in 10 years – Especially if they keep up with this strategy. What do you think?

This would make a great venue to open a restaurant, don’t you think?

Chili’s drying out in the sun.

The Sala Savanh Catholic Church – Built in 1920

Someone had wrote this when the cement was wet. I dedicate this to my missus as I forgot it’s her Birthday which is today. I always seem to forget birthdays and I hate it – The people get so offended, and rightly so. D’oh!

I think this is the oldest Temple in Savanakhet. Established in 1542

Some local kids chilling out.

This guy was pretty high up, just chilling chatting to his mates below him.