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This day I was finally heading towards northern Laos, which I have wanted to do for ages. The day would take me to Vang Vieng.

First I had to leave Vientiane which had its on challenges. Google maps will only send you on the expressway which does not allow motorbikes. So you just have to plug in Vang Vieng and ignore the regular instructions to turn left (onto the expressway). At least it was road 13 all the way so no fear of missing a turn.

The road out of Vientiane was a disaster. A National highway with no road surface. About 20km of off roading in the middle of a busy city.

The next 90km were beautiful road conditions. A bit boring but it gets you there.

The final section takes you through the mountains and is quite pretty. It is what I now consider an average Laos road, good but full of random deep potholes.

Bridge Stop

Arriving in Vang Vieng (152km / 3.5hours) you realise why this has been a tourist mecca for so many years. Stunning mountain backdrops to a wide calm river. Looks like paradise!

Hotel views

The town was infamous 10 years ago, with backpackers flocking here and causing mayhem. After 12 or so died in one year from drunken antics on the river the authorities cracked down. It is still full of backpackers and you can party hard but has toned down a lot.

I took the opportunity to do a paragliding trip shortly after arrival and I highly recommend it. Best views ever and a great experience. It also saves you trekking hours up one of the many lookout points to see the view.

Mountain views
More Mountain Views
Safety First helmet

If paragliding can is not your thing there are plenty of hot air balloon options for a more sedate experience. I believe both cost the same at US$99.

Either be booked at https://www.facebook.com/share/Ty3FFnkyH5A8GN4a/?mibextid=eQY6cl

Location, https://maps.app.goo.gl/GdoVnCVhBscr7ckK8?g_st=ic

There are plenty of groups offering the same experiences so it is hard to miss if keen – and you should be as it is spectacular and maybe a once in a lifetime bucket list thing to do!

I am here for a couple of days so I will update here with some video footage.

Adventurer