We actually started the trip in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Vientiane is quite interesting, but not as picturesque as Luang Prabang. Situated on the Mekong River in the hilly north of Laos, Luang Prabang was the capital in days gone by. This view is from Mount Phousi in the centre of town.

The Khan river joins the Mekong at Luang Prabang.

Lots of people ride little motorbikes in Laos, and very few of them wear helmets. Hopefully its not a big problem, as most of the traffic is fairly slow moving. Riding with a parasol, however, is fairly popular.

Chatting with a novice monk at the stupa on Mount Phousi.

Lanterns for sale in Luang Prabang.

Dried fish and other delicacies at the market.

These boats are run as a kind of taxi service along the river. We took one upstream for a few hours to see the cave temples.

Reptiles in alcohol, as brewed by a village on the river.

Heading downstream for a swim.

These cascades flow over tree roots and clay - not a rock to be seen. Definitely worth the trip out from Luang Prabang, especially on a hot day.

Rice fields in the countryside around Luang Prabang.