Lao New Year Again

It's that time of year again...The temperature is rising and the easiest relief to all of the heat is to have massive water fights in the streets. Pictures just don't do it just and we were afraid of our camera drowning in a bucket of water.

Sabaidee Pii Mai

The End of the Road in Northern Laos

Last week, I found myself literally at the end of the road in northern Laos, staring across the Mekong into Burma. Not a lot of excitement up here but very beautiful. This area is also right in the heart of the infamous "Golden Triangle." I've heard lots of stories about the illicit activities which took place in this area in the past and which many say are still taking place. The most unusual thing I saw though were a bunch of Chinese construction workers.

On the left is Burma, on the right is Laos

Border crossing for Laos and China--In addition to reaching the Lao/Burmese border, I also visited the Lao/Chinese border. So close to visiting two countries, yet so still so far away.

Trucks headed to China

This area is the watermelon and squash capital of Laos. There were a couple villages where each house had a pile of squash this big in their front yards.

Khao Soi in Northern Laos

Northern Laos is known for its Khao Soi a bowl of rice noodles, tomatoes, fermented soy beans, chillies, garlic and onions topped with a variety of greens and herbs. Of course, the Lao love condiments so there are numerous other combinations depending on taste (I like some dried peppers and lime). The fermented soy beans provide a really distinctive taste. I was recently in the "capital" of Khao Soi and had several delicious bowls of noodles.

Before

After

Condiments