Gentle Land, Gentle Mindset: Laos

Guest Blogger: Laura Seewoester

As we heard, Luang Prabang is undeniably beautiful. It is nestled between where the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers come together, cradled at the base of small but lovely mountains. Flowers bloom all along the streets, and the city (at least where we are) is clean and doesn't smell like urine (or maybe that was just the durian).

The people and the atmosphere here are as gentle as the scenery. Even the heat and humidity seem less stifling. Adding to the natural beauty are glittering wats at almost every turn, all bearing the orange robes of monks blowing in the wind as they hang to dry. At first you almost don't realize you are in a big tourist spot until you see all the Western style restaurants, not to mention the Westerners that crawl out in the evening. The slow pace of Laos is a refreshing break from the craziness of Bangkok and Siem Reap. All the businesses and tours close or end by 3:30, so the afternoons are spent napping or chilling with a Beer Lao.

The Lao cuisine is excellent. Traditionally, they make a series of small dishes and dips that are eaten using sticky rice (much like Ethiopian food is eaten by picking it up with the bread). Everything is fresh and flavorful. We took a cooking class, so I will be able to try my hand at it. Tomorrow we are off to ride elephants in the jungle, and then to the capital of Laos, Vientiane. I hope everyone is doing well.

Yuk yuk.