rolling hills, reed houses and nutella!

Im in Laos! and my first impression is that its great!! We had to wait an extra day on the Chinese border as usual because paperwork wasnt orgaised. then a day driving to get to Luang Prabang, and the scenery is beautiful- rolling hills covered in greenery and reed houses on the side of the road, some on precarious looking stilts. the kids are all pretty and their expressions when they saw the big red truck go past was pure amazment! the city itself is laid back and quite touristy. when we got here in the evening last night, we immediately found a cheap market buffet with potatoes, noodles, pasta, and lots of different vegetables. barbequed meat was nextdoor- and its quality meat rather than chunks of bone and fat, like in China! then there are real french bagettes everywhere, cake and fresh fruit juices. i got a juice with dragon fruit in it which was very tasty. we also wandered along the night market that had so many nice touristy bags, pictures, shoes, etc that i may be spending some money here! Laos was a french colony and you can see the french influence in buildings and food, and perhaps thats why it feels friendly here because it has Western (and therefore familiar) influence.
we are staying by the river in a little hostel. and tonight going up to a temple with a great view. we will then decide whether to stay here a day longer or carry on to the next climbing destination.

rolling hills, reed houses and nutella!

Luang Prabang, Laos