So our last full day in LP has arrived. On advice from Sarah and Jacob we decided to catch the second (and larger) waterfall in the area – the Kuang Si. After another good breakfast at the Scandinavian (we are regulars now) we negotiated a tak-tak ride out to the falls for 11:30. Our driver arrived on time with 4 other people in the back. Manouk (from our Tibet tour) was one of them ! It was great to see her again but unfortunately the group was split into different vehicles – we ended up alone in the back of the original one trolling the streets for more passengers. We even resorted to joining our driver shouting ‘waterfaaaalll’ at all the strolling honkies. No luck ! We were not willing to accept the fare for just the two of us and resigned ourselves to spending the day chilling put around town. A half hour later a tak-tak with 3 passengers on board swung past us on the streets – we hopped in after checking that this one would not be splitting or stopping and were on our way.

The falls and associated park were far bigger than the one from the other day were complete with Asian bear enclosure and Idylic picnic areas. The falls were even more stunning than we had expected and hiking the very steep trail to the top yielded some interesting views. Swimming areas were limited and a little busy so we found a picnic bench and table ankle deep in the river where we could relax and watch the world go by. It was good to see that, being a Sunday, the park was full of local families having braais and picnics – just enjoying the setting. Another striking thing was a tour group from Thailand. We always think of Thailand as a tour destination but when you see their citizens out in the world you know the country is doing well – really cool to see.

Our fantastically considerate driver got us back to LP around 17h – so just enough time to relax before meeting Manouk and our other friends for a last supper down on the Mekong river.

We’ll truly miss having such cool and diverse people to travel with. Was great to meet you Sarah and Jacob. All the best for the rest of your trip – and for the special delivery that’s on it’s way 🙂 Manouk, we’ll hopefully catch you again in Vietnam – keep an eye out for half-full tak-taks with us on the back! Off to Vang Vieng tomorrow – with a bit of luck Nick, Arna, Jessica and Christian will still be there.

[Pictures: Waterfall – duh]

– Posted from my iPhone via Wifi