Day 24 - Zero km by bike: several on foot - Trial by fire: new bike, first tour, first time in Asia

November 18, 2024

Day 24 - Zero km by bike: several on foot

Luang Prabang is like no other place on earth that I have seen; nor like any other place in Laos that we have seen. Besides the beautiful landscape and astonishing Buddhist temples, it is thronged with Chinese and European tourists. Of course, we are also tourists; we just haven’t seen many others since Hanoi. I invoke the principle of science that the observer always has an effect on the subject, and that is certainly the case in Luang Prabang.

We too had an adventure with a wander to the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan and then a walk up Phousi Hill from the southeast.

Breath taking orchids, and these are actually real.

The wats, or Buddhist temples, are everywhere and are open to visitors. Signs advise appropriate behavior and dress.

Wat Tham Phousi rises up a steep hill and affords spectacular views.

Most westerners can't see the point of the sign.

His eyes are averted from the mural above.

We will all need a Naga for protection from evil for the next four years.

Ian contemplates mortality (which works up an appetite).

While looking for lunch we were distracted by a beautiful tea shop. The attendant offered to let us sample tea.

Finally we found a good place for lunch.

Fried fish with chili sauce - amazing food is one of the advantages of a tourist town.

As I walked out later in the afternoon, the night market was being set up. To escape the throng I ducked down an alley and passed vendors preparing their stalls.

We braved the crowds again to find dinner in the market.

We selected a place that had their offerings on ice.

And delicious coconut pancakes for dessert.

One last wat for the evening, and their guard dog.

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Joel KrewazWhat an incredible adventure Ian and Winston. Your endurance and determination is just stunning. From the photos and blog, your experiences match the epic nature of your travel campaign, and your effort. What a superb location for a break. Thank you for posting. Best wishes to you both.
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2 weeks ago

Ian WallisTo Joel KrewazJoel, what a heart warming comment. Glad you're enjoying it. Cheers from both of us. Ian and Winston
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2 weeks ago