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Hi guys - lack of updates: have been travelling through rural southern villages where electricity, water and telephones are a luxury, let alone internet. For now, feast on this:

"Sawadee". "Sawadee". We responded to the huge friendly smile characteristic of this region. It turns out that he is Laotian, and an epitomy of everything that is rumoured about Laotian people. Warm, friendly, highly-loveable and so laid back he'd almost fall over. Traversing and experiencing such beautiful people, one is a far cry from the familiarity of fear and unrest of the West, that it is difficult to believe the world is in certain parts, in turmoil. Ironically, the Democratic Republic of Laos is considered to be one of those countries. And for sure, it has its share of political instability, under-development and economic struggles, but, a certain flame of happiness dances in the eyes of the locals with whom I have interacted - a flame whose light is often missed in the West.

In Laos. In Love.

Asha Patel
2006-08-23 10:48:48

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day, full of story. So, here goes: with unstable bikes and dodgy roads we thought perhaps it'd be wiser to leave the bikes behind, but, no refund was negotiable. So, we set off in search of the caves, but not before Umi's bike conked out. It was out of fuel. So, mission was to find a fuelling station. First stop was dry. He pointed to a place opposite the old airstrip. We arrived. No petrol there either. Hm. Whilst Umi and I continued to push the bike along, Finola sped ahead in search of fuel. We eventually found a roadside stall stacking tins and cans and carparts. They didn't speak a word of English but we opened the fuel tank and pointed in. He smiled, went inside and emerged, with a clear wine bottle filled with a pink transluscent fluid, with a water like consistency. As he poured the contents into the tank, we wondered whether they were laughing at us or at the liquid that wasn't actually fuel. Anyhow, it seemed to work. For now. We made our I couldn't help but get off my bike to capture this one...way to the caves, both of which were closed so we just rode around, exploring the countryside and admiring the scenery. We stopped at a mountainside cafe before it got too dark. The day wasn't over yet. Before dark, we managed to fall off the bike, damage the gears and bend the footrest... right in front of Mr Thi for whom we'll be working next week. Nice...

...Friday we hired bicycles. A few errands, lots of food and a little cycling had us exhausted. Friends episodes again from 9pm - midnight. Jeez this is becoming habitual...

..Today is rocket festival. Sounds of celebration boom through the streets, parades, music and laughter as the locals pop open their beers. Myself I've just spentfour hours updating blog. Appreciate it! You won't hear from me in a while, since I'm off to work at the farm tomorrow. Await updates...

-- Phouandeng Organic Farm --

Day One: wading waist deep, ...