Every now and then as a long-term traveller, you come across a journey that's notoriously bad. The last time I seriously considered replacing a chunk of travel with an overpriced flight was when I travelled from Cali to Quito by bus on a road reported to have frequent hijackings and muggings. As I headed north through Laos, it became apparent that … [Read more...]
Responsible Tourism in Luang Prabang
Responsible tourism in Luang Prabang is a big deal. I don't think I've ever visited a destination with so many activities focused on supporting the local community. If you're planning a trip to Laos and you're keen to interact with locals, learn about their culture, pick up new skills and help the community, below is a run down of 10 of the best … [Read more...]
Backstreet Academy: Promoting Community Experiences in Asia
I've come across many social enterprises on my travels, but it's rare that one impresses me quite as much as Backstreet Academy did on a recent visit to Luang Prabang in Laos. WHAT IS BACKSTREET ACADEMY? Backstreet Academy started out in Kathmandu, Nepal, and has since spread to almost 40 locations in ten different countries across Asia. In … [Read more...]
Exploring the Bolaven Plateau from Pakse
Pakse, in southern Laos, is beginning to make a name for itself on the tourist route between the 4000 islands and the infamous 'loop' near Thakhek, but is it worth the hype? For the timebeing, at least, both Pakse and Thakhek are a little 'solo backpacker unfriendly'. For those of us who promised our parents we wouldn't hire a motorbike, transport … [Read more...]
Been There Don Det: A Guide to the 4000 Islands in Laos
Travelling to Don Det in southern Laos can be a little daunting, especially if you're heading there from Phnom Penh or Siem Reap in Cambodia and have a long bus journey and border crossing to contend with first. So, I'll share some bad news and then some good news... The bad news is that these bus journeys typically take longer than advertised. … [Read more...]
