Day 32 - Goodbye Laos and Hello Hanoi!

We had a leisurely wander around Luang Prabang this morning, taking in all the sights and sounds of this fascinating and endearing little city on the Mekong. We cannot say enough how lovely the people and the culture are here in Laos with a focus on Buddhism, food, and community (we did not see any homeless people or people begging) and little attention paid to material things. Their philosophy creates a very warm, safe and welcoming place to visit.

It was very hot though, so after a little window shopping, we had to stop for a drink in some shade, but we did manage to get some more pics of the ubiquitous scooters and of course the Tuktuks.

And finally, off to the airport where we bid a fond farewell to our wonderful guide Si, who true to form, helped us get through the check in procedure and waited with us until he was sure we were through security before he would leave.

Also true to form, Wild Frontiers (and our agent Jim Hutchinson) have everything planned seamlessly with our next guide Phong waiting for us at Hanoi airport and he whisked us off to our hotel L'Opera in the city center. More on Hanoi and first impressions of Vietnam tomorrow.

Fun Fact:

• People in Thailand and Laos do not shake hands. Rather, they place their hands in prayer position and bow.