Slow boat down the Mekong

Took a 2 day trip down the Mekong the day after arriving back from the trek. It takes you and seemingly all the other tourists in this corner of Laos to the fine French concession and UNESCO heritage town of Luang Prabang.
The Mekong was fast and big as the last moths rains had seen it swell greatly so I was glad to be going down stream.

6 hours of sailing was pleasant enough, we then arrived in the small village of Pakbeng seemingly made fairly well off by the hundreds of tourists who must sleep there every night. We weren't held to ransom for a room though and there was plenty of space.
Was taught how to shoot a slingshot properly by some local kids, they where disturbingly good at hitting the leaf I had placed 5 feet away and where in hysterics as my shots went off at odd angles.

Locals showing me how to use a sling. I was shit!

Packed up with baguettes the boat left again the next morning this time with a few locals stuffed in to boot the the boat sat a little worrying low and lopsided in the water. The driver did alright avoiding the rapids and strange currents which caused whirlpools though and we whizzed down the Mekong making the 9 hour journey in under 7.

Luang Prabang is Lovely, booked myself into a smart hotel last night and I'll probably blow the budget for 3 or 4 days and make the most. More when i've explored.

dock at Luang prabang

Slow boat down the Mekong

Muang Pakbeng, Laos