luang prabang airport visa on arrival
Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 09, 2009, 12:00 PM
can anyone advise on the current procedure for getting a visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and how long it takes, please ? Will be visiting in a couple of weeks.
Also I'd appreciate some up-to-date restaurant tips for both LP and Vientiane.
1. Re: Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 09, 2009, 8:07 PM
A visa will cost $37 (US & UK are the same, I think) and will require one passport photo. The time it takes to process depends on how many flights arrive at that time, but it shouldn't take more than 30 minutes.
This site http://www.travelfish.org/laos-visas.php
has a lot of good restaurant and accomodation information.
2. Re: Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 09, 2009, 8:13 PM
Yes $37.00 and easy to get.
3. Re: Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 10, 2009, 7:14 AM
thanks for info and the good link
4. Re: Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 10, 2009, 9:43 PM
In LP we recently had an excellent meal at the Blue Lagoon; nice atmosphere, too. The restaurant upstairs on the balcony at Villa Santi was nice as well. Both are more expensive than many other nice places in town, but still quire reasonible.
5. Re: Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 10, 2009, 11:49 PM
Rests in LP - L'Elephant and the Three Nagas are the best by far.
Vientiane. L'Adresse du Tinay at the Lao Paris hotels. Le Central are high end ones.
La Provencal and La Terasse are my locals
6. Re: Visa on arrival at Luang Prabang airport and restaurant tips
Mar 12, 2009, 12:56 AM
l'elephant remains my favorite for a splurge on falang food but like Blue Lagoon, prices have gone up considerably compared to just 3 years ago. Still a good deal compared to their equivalent elsewhere.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Airport Taxi to the center of Luang Prabang, Laos
Airport Taxi to the center of Luang Prabang, Laos
Can anyone tell me if I can make arrangement with the airport shuttle after I arrive at Luang Prabang Airport and pay in USD?
1- Tuk-tuks are your best and cheapest bet. It's only a 15 to 20 minute tuk-tuk ride from the airport to the town centre. If you know what hotel you are staying at, the driver will drop you at the door.
Probably around 50,000 kip.
2. There is a monopoly at the airport and there are no tuk-tuks. You pay in advance for a mini-van to take you to the center of town and it is 50,000 kip or US$6 (yes you can pay in $). No need to reserve in advance.
3. Tuk tuk into town is nowhere near 15-20mins ride! Try about 5-7 mins max. You can pay the minivan service (as noted 50,000kip or $6USD) and it's ridiculously easy to walk 100m to outside the gates and grab a tuk tuk. If you have some Lao and good negotiation skills you may be able to get a ride for 20,000kip (but they may not take USD), or 30-40,000 if you're not strong on either!
Can anyone tell me if I can make arrangement with the airport shuttle after I arrive at Luang Prabang Airport and pay in USD?
1- Tuk-tuks are your best and cheapest bet. It's only a 15 to 20 minute tuk-tuk ride from the airport to the town centre. If you know what hotel you are staying at, the driver will drop you at the door.
Probably around 50,000 kip.
2. There is a monopoly at the airport and there are no tuk-tuks. You pay in advance for a mini-van to take you to the center of town and it is 50,000 kip or US$6 (yes you can pay in $). No need to reserve in advance.
3. Tuk tuk into town is nowhere near 15-20mins ride! Try about 5-7 mins max. You can pay the minivan service (as noted 50,000kip or $6USD) and it's ridiculously easy to walk 100m to outside the gates and grab a tuk tuk. If you have some Lao and good negotiation skills you may be able to get a ride for 20,000kip (but they may not take USD), or 30-40,000 if you're not strong on either!
Shangri Lao Full Day Expedition Luang Prabang
Shangri Lao Full Day Expedition Luang Prabang
Duration: 1 days - Location: Luang Prabang
Shangi-Lao, just outside of Luang Prabang is a little paradise. This resently opened camp provides you wilderness and luxery combined. Sourounded by the jungle and close to the Nam Khan River it is an one in a lifetime experience. This is a one day expedition from the Shangri Lao Explorer Camp around the Huay Sae valley,
traveling by elephant, on foot with porter horses, and returning via our custom-built bamboo raft.
on this page
Itinerary
Itinerary
Rates & Booking
Cancellation Policy
Other Disclosures
Transfer by VIP minibus to the “Shangri-Lao Explorer Camp” 15 km outside Luang Prabang.
After the arrival, you will get an introductory tour of the camp where your guide will teach you about elephants. You can talk with our veterinarian in the hospital, feed the elephants and relax by the riverside.
Your expedition begins with an elephant ride across the river and continues for 1.5 hours through teak forests, jungle and over hills to reach the protected Huay Sae Valley. Along the way you can stop to see the amazing scenery of the Nam Khan River Valley.
After reaching the Huay Sae Valley you leave the elephant and rest at the jungle Sala, enjoying a luxury lunch with traditional Lao food and wine by a secluded waterfall. Depending on the water level you can refresh and swim in the natural pools.
Continue with 1.5 hours trekking on foot along the marvelous Huay Sae mountain stream. The adventurous trail crosses bamboo bridges and passes waterfalls, fantastic limestone formations and turquoise blue pools in the dense jungle. Along our educational trail you will learn more about this important ecosystem.
Where the trail leaves the valley, traditional horses from the Hmong hill tribes are waiting for you to carry your bags up a more demanding up hill section. These strong, little porter-horses accompany you for the last 30 minutes of trekking through fields, plantations and Teak forest. Enjoy stunning views to the mountain ranges while your guide explains the local agriculture and farming methods.
Down at the Nam Khan River, a luxury bamboo raft is waiting to take you back. Have a coffee break, relax and watch the traditional village life of farmers and fishermen along the river. Slowly floating down the river, the relaxing 1.5 hour journey, plus an optional 30 min stop at the Tad Sae Waterfall, will bring you back to the camp
.4:30 – 5:00 pm leave the camp and return by VIP minibus to Luang Prabang where your guide will drop you off at your hotel.
Other Disclosures
NOTE: we are working with animals and in nature, time changes may occur at any time. (Bring shoes that can get wet!!) The waterfall though is dry during February-August! Elephant rides can take different routes through rivers and village in the dry season.
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations 31 days or more before the tour start date, a full refund shall be issued. For cancellations 30 days or less before the start date, no refund can be issued.
Duration: 1 days - Location: Luang Prabang
Shangi-Lao, just outside of Luang Prabang is a little paradise. This resently opened camp provides you wilderness and luxery combined. Sourounded by the jungle and close to the Nam Khan River it is an one in a lifetime experience. This is a one day expedition from the Shangri Lao Explorer Camp around the Huay Sae valley,
traveling by elephant, on foot with porter horses, and returning via our custom-built bamboo raft.
on this page
Itinerary
Itinerary
Rates & Booking
Cancellation Policy
Other Disclosures
Transfer by VIP minibus to the “Shangri-Lao Explorer Camp” 15 km outside Luang Prabang.
After the arrival, you will get an introductory tour of the camp where your guide will teach you about elephants. You can talk with our veterinarian in the hospital, feed the elephants and relax by the riverside.
Your expedition begins with an elephant ride across the river and continues for 1.5 hours through teak forests, jungle and over hills to reach the protected Huay Sae Valley. Along the way you can stop to see the amazing scenery of the Nam Khan River Valley.
After reaching the Huay Sae Valley you leave the elephant and rest at the jungle Sala, enjoying a luxury lunch with traditional Lao food and wine by a secluded waterfall. Depending on the water level you can refresh and swim in the natural pools.
Continue with 1.5 hours trekking on foot along the marvelous Huay Sae mountain stream. The adventurous trail crosses bamboo bridges and passes waterfalls, fantastic limestone formations and turquoise blue pools in the dense jungle. Along our educational trail you will learn more about this important ecosystem.
Where the trail leaves the valley, traditional horses from the Hmong hill tribes are waiting for you to carry your bags up a more demanding up hill section. These strong, little porter-horses accompany you for the last 30 minutes of trekking through fields, plantations and Teak forest. Enjoy stunning views to the mountain ranges while your guide explains the local agriculture and farming methods.
Down at the Nam Khan River, a luxury bamboo raft is waiting to take you back. Have a coffee break, relax and watch the traditional village life of farmers and fishermen along the river. Slowly floating down the river, the relaxing 1.5 hour journey, plus an optional 30 min stop at the Tad Sae Waterfall, will bring you back to the camp
.4:30 – 5:00 pm leave the camp and return by VIP minibus to Luang Prabang where your guide will drop you off at your hotel.
Other Disclosures
NOTE: we are working with animals and in nature, time changes may occur at any time. (Bring shoes that can get wet!!) The waterfall though is dry during February-August! Elephant rides can take different routes through rivers and village in the dry season.
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations 31 days or more before the tour start date, a full refund shall be issued. For cancellations 30 days or less before the start date, no refund can be issued.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
I read many posts on this blog about what to do in Luang Prabang.
I would like to suggest that tourists to LPB go to one of the many Buddhist temples and spend some time talking with the Novice Monks, then do something to improve their lives. These boys come from impoverished villages--many are orphans, and all are poor--and connecting with them will change both your lives. I sponsored a Novice Monk three years ago, and that friendship has exploded into a universe of kindness.
It costs me the equivalent of the cost of a daily cup of coffee to support Onsi at University, and I have received in return not just excellent Buddhist karma but one of the finest friendships of my life. It's soooooooooo easy.
In Luang Prabang I watch rich tourists staying in upscale hotels with their fancy cameras stuck in the faces of Novice Monks gathering alms at 6:00 am, and they leave nothing behind, but take their photographs home. The $100 spent in one night at some fake restaurant could pay for a year at the Mekong English School for a Novice Monk. Backpackers, in my experience, are the most generous of all tourists to Lao people, and the richest of tourists leave the least behind.
Luang Prabang is a magical place. It is filled with Buddhism, with good Lao people, but these are poor people too, so please make a connection when you are there. Change a life or two and watch what happens.
PeterHeron - Sydney Australia / http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g295415-i9321-k5456692-Sponsoring_Novice_Monks_in_Luang_Prabang-Luang_Prabang_Luang_Prabang_Province.html
1. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 5:42 PM
Why not sponsor a tuk-tuk driver or the son of a rice farmer?
I will warn you to be careful with sponsoring people ANYWHERE unless you have connections or can visit them regularly, so you can follow up on their progress and make sure the money is going into the right hands and being used exactly as it is intended. I'm hearing reports of westerners with good intentions sending thousands of dollars over there to sponsor a college student, only to hear he has another sponsor and is keeping the cash to buy booze and girls. Or in other cases, they have dropped out and are just living off the sponsor's cash!
Do know there are risks, and not all young people are going to be getting good grades or will even want to continue when they discover studying 10 hours a day isn't as fun as they thought. (I'm speaking from experience)
While I am of the opinion that an education is the most rewarding thing you could possibly give a person, there are proper and improper ways to go about doing it.
2. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 7:35 PM
I agree wholeheartedly, and appreciate your comments. In sponsoring / co-sponsoring two young Lao men (both have left their temples after graduating from high school), I monitor their progress closely, require weekly emails and updates, and talk with them on the telephone. I also visit once a week and spend time with each. My first rule of sponsorship is honesty; my second is communication. I explain that the trust that comes from being always honest is vital to continued sponsorship, and the young Lao men I sponsor understand that. And yes, it is true that one must choose a Novice Monk to sponsor very carefully; for the finest results, this must be seen as a long-term commitment. That said, I would again encourage travellers to consider this form of contribution to the future of Laos.
3. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 8:01 PM
Good to hear it.
The former novice I sponsor (he left the temple after the new abbot said that those there shouldn't study!) will be graduating in a year and a half. We just spent 2 weeks traveling around Laos & went up to see his parents in their village. They are very proud of him! (He's a straight-A student!)
The monk I was sponsoring for the better part of 3 years, on the other hand, didn't quite perform so well so I made the decision to discontinue his sponsorship. Unfortunately, this happens, and unfortunaltey, he lost out on a very good opportunity to get an education and a job and to be able to support himself...
4. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 10:09 PM
Excellent work, Maneki-neko. The young man I sponsor, Onsi, has taken me to his village three times now, and at the last visit we had a bacci ceremony in which I became a member of his (very) extended family. He starts university at Lao-American College in January, and I'm treating him to a three-week trip around Thailand before he starts. He'll ride on his first escalator, go to his first movie, go to his first zoo, and see the ocean for the first time. Very happy outcome. And, as you say above, it's of the greatest importance to choose the person to sponsor very wisely. And yes, tuk-tuk drivers or children (including girls) of rice farmers are just as deserving.
5. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jun 25, 2012, 1:29 AM
this is great to hear. Remember that customs are different there. I have a friend there who asked me for $$. I tried to tell him about the customs in N America about giving $$ but I think he assumed we all were rich.
6. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jun 25, 2012, 10:10 PM
When I agreed to sponsor Onsi and Lai, it was a well thought-out and well-planned decision. Both boys have obligations to email me every week and to keep strict and accurate accounting of every kip they spend. I help teach them the value and importance of budgeting, and provide emotional as well as financial support. Sponsorship is a serious business, but the rewards--on both sides--are tremendous.
7. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jul 01, 2012, 11:13 AM
It's really impressive. When I visited Luang Prabang last month, I found there were lots of kids running and playing happily on the streets - seems they don't need to go to school...I feel very sorry for that.... May I ask PeterHeron and Maneki-neko: how you started your sponsoring...?
8. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jul 01, 2012, 5:41 PM
I travel to Lao frequently and met some local people on my travels, and the guy I sponsor now I heard from through an American friend. He met the guy there and told me he wanted to be pen-pals (this was before there was internet access) but didn't have the time to write him. I decided to write the guy letters instead of my friend & I was very impressed with his English. He was only 15 at the time and 2 years later, when I decided to sponsor another monk, I asked this novice if he wanted to go to university with him (the monk). I had a friend in Vientiane take the boys to enroll and get them set up. I sent her the money so there woudln't be any trouble with that. The novice is now an honors student and head of the student body. He will graduate in a year and a half and I will go over to see the big event. :-)
Unfortunately, the monk didn't perform as well, was truant and didn't sit for his final exams on one occasion. This was after 2.5 years of sponsorship. I cut him off as I felt he was wasting my money. So, just so people know, they are not all angels and the reasons they are in the temple to begin with is because their parents cannot afford to take care of them.
9. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jul 02, 2012, 5:20 PM
I started sponsoring Onsi quite by accident. I was invited to guest teach English for two nights at Mrs Pong's English class, and Onsi--then a novice monk--wrote a lovely essay in English about his problems and successes when he first joined his temple. So I asked Mrs Pong if I could assist him in any way, and she suggested I pay for his English classes (7000 baht, or about $270, for two years). Onsi and I then struck up an email correspondence, and I came to know him as a person. The next step was buying him a laptop, then spending time with him on my second visit. We visited his village (2.5 hours north to the Nam Nga bridge, then 3 hours upriver in his parents' boat!), where I was treated to a splendid baci ceremony, many wonderful Lao meals, and a BeerLao-infused New Years celebration (I bought all the BeerLao in the village!) with Lao dancing and singing and much hilarity. I brought Onsi books and sent him software programs, then paid for his studies at the Mekong English School, and agreed to sponsor him for University in Vientiane. I'm very lucky, because Onsi (and now Lai, the second Lao boy I co-sponsor) is very studious, very honest, very friendly, and very open in communicating. We talk on the phone every week, and in December I'm treating him to his first-ever holiday in Thailand for four weeks. We developed an annual budget for him, and he reports back to me on his expenses. He starts University in January, and Lai starts Nursing College in Luang Prabang in October. The MOST important aspect of sponsorship is finding an individual who will work hard, communicate well, follow the rules you set, and succeed. If you want to discuss this further, I'd be delighted to follow up with you--my email address is heron_peter@hotmail.com.
I read many posts on this blog about what to do in Luang Prabang.
I would like to suggest that tourists to LPB go to one of the many Buddhist temples and spend some time talking with the Novice Monks, then do something to improve their lives. These boys come from impoverished villages--many are orphans, and all are poor--and connecting with them will change both your lives. I sponsored a Novice Monk three years ago, and that friendship has exploded into a universe of kindness.
It costs me the equivalent of the cost of a daily cup of coffee to support Onsi at University, and I have received in return not just excellent Buddhist karma but one of the finest friendships of my life. It's soooooooooo easy.
In Luang Prabang I watch rich tourists staying in upscale hotels with their fancy cameras stuck in the faces of Novice Monks gathering alms at 6:00 am, and they leave nothing behind, but take their photographs home. The $100 spent in one night at some fake restaurant could pay for a year at the Mekong English School for a Novice Monk. Backpackers, in my experience, are the most generous of all tourists to Lao people, and the richest of tourists leave the least behind.
Luang Prabang is a magical place. It is filled with Buddhism, with good Lao people, but these are poor people too, so please make a connection when you are there. Change a life or two and watch what happens.
PeterHeron - Sydney Australia / http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g295415-i9321-k5456692-Sponsoring_Novice_Monks_in_Luang_Prabang-Luang_Prabang_Luang_Prabang_Province.html
1. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 5:42 PM
Why not sponsor a tuk-tuk driver or the son of a rice farmer?
I will warn you to be careful with sponsoring people ANYWHERE unless you have connections or can visit them regularly, so you can follow up on their progress and make sure the money is going into the right hands and being used exactly as it is intended. I'm hearing reports of westerners with good intentions sending thousands of dollars over there to sponsor a college student, only to hear he has another sponsor and is keeping the cash to buy booze and girls. Or in other cases, they have dropped out and are just living off the sponsor's cash!
Do know there are risks, and not all young people are going to be getting good grades or will even want to continue when they discover studying 10 hours a day isn't as fun as they thought. (I'm speaking from experience)
While I am of the opinion that an education is the most rewarding thing you could possibly give a person, there are proper and improper ways to go about doing it.
2. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 7:35 PM
I agree wholeheartedly, and appreciate your comments. In sponsoring / co-sponsoring two young Lao men (both have left their temples after graduating from high school), I monitor their progress closely, require weekly emails and updates, and talk with them on the telephone. I also visit once a week and spend time with each. My first rule of sponsorship is honesty; my second is communication. I explain that the trust that comes from being always honest is vital to continued sponsorship, and the young Lao men I sponsor understand that. And yes, it is true that one must choose a Novice Monk to sponsor very carefully; for the finest results, this must be seen as a long-term commitment. That said, I would again encourage travellers to consider this form of contribution to the future of Laos.
3. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 8:01 PM
Good to hear it.
The former novice I sponsor (he left the temple after the new abbot said that those there shouldn't study!) will be graduating in a year and a half. We just spent 2 weeks traveling around Laos & went up to see his parents in their village. They are very proud of him! (He's a straight-A student!)
The monk I was sponsoring for the better part of 3 years, on the other hand, didn't quite perform so well so I made the decision to discontinue his sponsorship. Unfortunately, this happens, and unfortunaltey, he lost out on a very good opportunity to get an education and a job and to be able to support himself...
4. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
May 29, 2012, 10:09 PM
Excellent work, Maneki-neko. The young man I sponsor, Onsi, has taken me to his village three times now, and at the last visit we had a bacci ceremony in which I became a member of his (very) extended family. He starts university at Lao-American College in January, and I'm treating him to a three-week trip around Thailand before he starts. He'll ride on his first escalator, go to his first movie, go to his first zoo, and see the ocean for the first time. Very happy outcome. And, as you say above, it's of the greatest importance to choose the person to sponsor very wisely. And yes, tuk-tuk drivers or children (including girls) of rice farmers are just as deserving.
5. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jun 25, 2012, 1:29 AM
this is great to hear. Remember that customs are different there. I have a friend there who asked me for $$. I tried to tell him about the customs in N America about giving $$ but I think he assumed we all were rich.
6. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jun 25, 2012, 10:10 PM
When I agreed to sponsor Onsi and Lai, it was a well thought-out and well-planned decision. Both boys have obligations to email me every week and to keep strict and accurate accounting of every kip they spend. I help teach them the value and importance of budgeting, and provide emotional as well as financial support. Sponsorship is a serious business, but the rewards--on both sides--are tremendous.
7. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jul 01, 2012, 11:13 AM
It's really impressive. When I visited Luang Prabang last month, I found there were lots of kids running and playing happily on the streets - seems they don't need to go to school...I feel very sorry for that.... May I ask PeterHeron and Maneki-neko: how you started your sponsoring...?
8. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jul 01, 2012, 5:41 PM
I travel to Lao frequently and met some local people on my travels, and the guy I sponsor now I heard from through an American friend. He met the guy there and told me he wanted to be pen-pals (this was before there was internet access) but didn't have the time to write him. I decided to write the guy letters instead of my friend & I was very impressed with his English. He was only 15 at the time and 2 years later, when I decided to sponsor another monk, I asked this novice if he wanted to go to university with him (the monk). I had a friend in Vientiane take the boys to enroll and get them set up. I sent her the money so there woudln't be any trouble with that. The novice is now an honors student and head of the student body. He will graduate in a year and a half and I will go over to see the big event. :-)
Unfortunately, the monk didn't perform as well, was truant and didn't sit for his final exams on one occasion. This was after 2.5 years of sponsorship. I cut him off as I felt he was wasting my money. So, just so people know, they are not all angels and the reasons they are in the temple to begin with is because their parents cannot afford to take care of them.
9. Re: Sponsoring Novice Monks in Luang Prabang
Jul 02, 2012, 5:20 PM
I started sponsoring Onsi quite by accident. I was invited to guest teach English for two nights at Mrs Pong's English class, and Onsi--then a novice monk--wrote a lovely essay in English about his problems and successes when he first joined his temple. So I asked Mrs Pong if I could assist him in any way, and she suggested I pay for his English classes (7000 baht, or about $270, for two years). Onsi and I then struck up an email correspondence, and I came to know him as a person. The next step was buying him a laptop, then spending time with him on my second visit. We visited his village (2.5 hours north to the Nam Nga bridge, then 3 hours upriver in his parents' boat!), where I was treated to a splendid baci ceremony, many wonderful Lao meals, and a BeerLao-infused New Years celebration (I bought all the BeerLao in the village!) with Lao dancing and singing and much hilarity. I brought Onsi books and sent him software programs, then paid for his studies at the Mekong English School, and agreed to sponsor him for University in Vientiane. I'm very lucky, because Onsi (and now Lai, the second Lao boy I co-sponsor) is very studious, very honest, very friendly, and very open in communicating. We talk on the phone every week, and in December I'm treating him to his first-ever holiday in Thailand for four weeks. We developed an annual budget for him, and he reports back to me on his expenses. He starts University in January, and Lai starts Nursing College in Luang Prabang in October. The MOST important aspect of sponsorship is finding an individual who will work hard, communicate well, follow the rules you set, and succeed. If you want to discuss this further, I'd be delighted to follow up with you--my email address is heron_peter@hotmail.com.
Shangri Lao Half Day Expedition Luang Prabang
Shangri Lao Half Day Expedition Luang Prabang
Duration: 5 hours - Location: Luang Prabang
Shangi-Lao, just outside of Luang Prabang is a little paradise. This resently opened camp provides you wilderness and luxery combined. Sourounded by the jungle and close to the Nam Khan River it is an one in a lifetime experience. This is a one day, overnight expedition from the Shangri Lao Explorer Camp around the Huay Sae valley,
traveling by elephant, returning via our custom-built bamboo raft.
on this page
Itinerary
Itinerary
Rates & Booking
Cancellation Policy
On arrival, you will get an introductory tour of the camp where your guide will teach you about elephants. You can talk with our veterinarian in the hospital, feed the elephants and relax by the riverside.
Your expedition begins with an elephant ride through diverse landscape. It is impressing how safe and secure the gentle giants make their way along the smallest jungle paths. After crossing the river, the trail takes you through teak forest and jungle over the hills to reach the beautiful Tad Sae Waterfall. Along the way you can stop to see the amazing scenery of the Nam Khan River Valley.
Rest at the Tad Sae Waterfall and enjoy this beautiful place with its fantastic limestone formations and turquoise blue pools in the forest. Coming from the mountains, the Huay Sae stream ends here falling over several cascades into the Nam Khan River. Refresh and swim in the natural pools.
Down at the Nam Khan River, a luxury bamboo raft is waiting to take you back. Enjoy the taste of typical Lao food for lunch on board, relax and watch the traditional village life of farmers and fishermen along the river. Slowly floating down the river, the relaxing 1 hour journey will bring you back to the camp.
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations 31 days or more before the tour start date, a full refund shall be issued. For cancellations 30 days or less before the start date, no refund can be issued.
Duration: 5 hours - Location: Luang Prabang
Shangi-Lao, just outside of Luang Prabang is a little paradise. This resently opened camp provides you wilderness and luxery combined. Sourounded by the jungle and close to the Nam Khan River it is an one in a lifetime experience. This is a one day, overnight expedition from the Shangri Lao Explorer Camp around the Huay Sae valley,
traveling by elephant, returning via our custom-built bamboo raft.
on this page
Itinerary
Itinerary
Rates & Booking
Cancellation Policy
On arrival, you will get an introductory tour of the camp where your guide will teach you about elephants. You can talk with our veterinarian in the hospital, feed the elephants and relax by the riverside.
Your expedition begins with an elephant ride through diverse landscape. It is impressing how safe and secure the gentle giants make their way along the smallest jungle paths. After crossing the river, the trail takes you through teak forest and jungle over the hills to reach the beautiful Tad Sae Waterfall. Along the way you can stop to see the amazing scenery of the Nam Khan River Valley.
Rest at the Tad Sae Waterfall and enjoy this beautiful place with its fantastic limestone formations and turquoise blue pools in the forest. Coming from the mountains, the Huay Sae stream ends here falling over several cascades into the Nam Khan River. Refresh and swim in the natural pools.
Down at the Nam Khan River, a luxury bamboo raft is waiting to take you back. Enjoy the taste of typical Lao food for lunch on board, relax and watch the traditional village life of farmers and fishermen along the river. Slowly floating down the river, the relaxing 1 hour journey will bring you back to the camp.
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations 31 days or more before the tour start date, a full refund shall be issued. For cancellations 30 days or less before the start date, no refund can be issued.
Elephant Riding and Trekking Luang Prabang
Elephant Riding and Trekking Luang Prabang
Duration: 1 days - Location: Luang Prabang
A full day elephant riding and trekking tour in the 'Elephant Village' just 15 km outside of Luang Prabang. This great one day tour includes village visits and soft hiking into amazing countryside, a Khmu minority village and the magnificent Tad Sae waterfalls. A perfect package for responsible travelers as this tour also supports the Fair Trek project which raises funding for seven villages in the area.
on this page
Itinerary
Itinerary
Rates & Booking
Cancellation Policy
Other Disclosures
After a short ride out of town you and your local guide will arrive at the Elephant Village - located next to the Elephant Lodge about 15 km out of town and in the middle of a wonderful mountainous valley and on the banks of the Nam Khan River.
Enjoy the amazing nature on this 1 hour elephant trek through stunning landscapes, small forests and a trip through the Nam Khan River. Afterwards a boat will bring you to the Tad Sae waterfalls (dry February and August). Lunch will be served either at the magnificent waterfalls or on the mountain view veranda of the Elephant Village.
The soft half day trekking (about 3-4 hrs.) will take you out to a Khmu village where you get an insight into their everyday life. The village is nestled at the foot of a small mountain range. Most of the people here are farmers and fishermen. They even speak a different language here and your guide will help to ask questions. This village trek is part of the 'Fair Trek' Project which supports seven villages in the area. It is a cooperation between authorities, the villages and the operating tour company.
From here you will take a small boat on the Nam Khan River or a short walk back to the pick up point and return to Luang Prabang.
Additional maps
elephants_and_trekking_in_luang_prabang.pdf (1.02MB) Download
Elephant and Trekking Tour outside of Luang Prabang.
Other Disclosures
NOTE: we are working with animals and in nature, time changes may occur at any time. (Bring shoes that can get wet!!) The waterfall though is dry during February-August! Elephant rides can take different routes through rivers and village in the dry season.
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations 31 days or more before check in, a full refund shall be issued.
For cancellations 30 days or less before check in, no refund can be issued.
Duration: 1 days - Location: Luang Prabang
A full day elephant riding and trekking tour in the 'Elephant Village' just 15 km outside of Luang Prabang. This great one day tour includes village visits and soft hiking into amazing countryside, a Khmu minority village and the magnificent Tad Sae waterfalls. A perfect package for responsible travelers as this tour also supports the Fair Trek project which raises funding for seven villages in the area.
on this page
Itinerary
Itinerary
Rates & Booking
Cancellation Policy
Other Disclosures
After a short ride out of town you and your local guide will arrive at the Elephant Village - located next to the Elephant Lodge about 15 km out of town and in the middle of a wonderful mountainous valley and on the banks of the Nam Khan River.
Enjoy the amazing nature on this 1 hour elephant trek through stunning landscapes, small forests and a trip through the Nam Khan River. Afterwards a boat will bring you to the Tad Sae waterfalls (dry February and August). Lunch will be served either at the magnificent waterfalls or on the mountain view veranda of the Elephant Village.
The soft half day trekking (about 3-4 hrs.) will take you out to a Khmu village where you get an insight into their everyday life. The village is nestled at the foot of a small mountain range. Most of the people here are farmers and fishermen. They even speak a different language here and your guide will help to ask questions. This village trek is part of the 'Fair Trek' Project which supports seven villages in the area. It is a cooperation between authorities, the villages and the operating tour company.
From here you will take a small boat on the Nam Khan River or a short walk back to the pick up point and return to Luang Prabang.
Additional maps
elephants_and_trekking_in_luang_prabang.pdf (1.02MB) Download
Elephant and Trekking Tour outside of Luang Prabang.
Other Disclosures
NOTE: we are working with animals and in nature, time changes may occur at any time. (Bring shoes that can get wet!!) The waterfall though is dry during February-August! Elephant rides can take different routes through rivers and village in the dry season.
Cancellation Policy
For cancellations 31 days or more before check in, a full refund shall be issued.
For cancellations 30 days or less before check in, no refund can be issued.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Arrival Luang Prabang Airport, Laos
Arrival Luang Prabang Airport, Laos
Arriving in Luang Prabang you disembark right onto the tarmac and walk straight into the customs clearance area. If you need to apply for a visa-on-arrival head to the signed desk, submit your application form (which you can download prior to travel), your passport, two passport photos and US$20-45 depending on your nationality. US, UK and European nationals are charged US$35.00 while people from Canada are charged US$42.00. Swedes pay US$31.00 and Australians can purchase the visa for US$30.00.
This must be paid in US dollars or Thai baht. The visa is good for 30 days. The application will only take a few minutes then you should go through passport control. The baggage claim area is just through passport control. There is only one luggage belt so you may have to wait a while for your baggage to come through. Be sure to have the baggage stub you received at check in to give the attendant before you can exit.
Once you exit the arrivals gate you’ll find yourself in a car park and you’ll see a currency exchange on your right. Please note that only major currencies and Thai baht are accepted here. You will also find a host of taxis and touts offering you a ride into town.
Arrival Luang Prabang Airport, Laos, Arrival Luang Prabang Airport, Laos
Arriving in Luang Prabang you disembark right onto the tarmac and walk straight into the customs clearance area. If you need to apply for a visa-on-arrival head to the signed desk, submit your application form (which you can download prior to travel), your passport, two passport photos and US$20-45 depending on your nationality. US, UK and European nationals are charged US$35.00 while people from Canada are charged US$42.00. Swedes pay US$31.00 and Australians can purchase the visa for US$30.00.
This must be paid in US dollars or Thai baht. The visa is good for 30 days. The application will only take a few minutes then you should go through passport control. The baggage claim area is just through passport control. There is only one luggage belt so you may have to wait a while for your baggage to come through. Be sure to have the baggage stub you received at check in to give the attendant before you can exit.
Once you exit the arrivals gate you’ll find yourself in a car park and you’ll see a currency exchange on your right. Please note that only major currencies and Thai baht are accepted here. You will also find a host of taxis and touts offering you a ride into town.
Arrival Luang Prabang Airport, Laos, Arrival Luang Prabang Airport, Laos
Airlines promote tourism in Cambodia
Airlines promote tourism in Cambodia
A seminar was held in Phnom Penh on April 24 by the Cambodia Angkor Air (CAA), a joint venture between Vietnam Airlines (VNA) and the Cambodian Royal Government.
Cambodian Secretary of State and CAA Chairman Tekreth Samrach said Cambodia is famous for its thousands of large temples, including the Angkor complex in Siem Reap province, beautiful beaches in Koh Kong and Kampot provinces and waterfalls in Ratankiri, Mondonkiri, Strung Treng and Kratie provinces.
However, the country’s tourism potential is not yet fully tapped due to lack of information and inadequate infrastructure.
The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism claimed that about 3.5 million foreign tourists, visited the country in 2002, mostly from Vietnam, China, Thailand, the Republic of Korea and Japan.
In the meantime, the numbers of tourists to Thailand and Singapore were much higher (around 20-25 million).
According to plan, the CAA will create the best conditions for tourists to explore the three most attractive destinations on a single air route from Phnom Penh to the ancient cultural sites in Siem Reap and beautiful beaches in Sihanouville city, while increasing the number of international air flights form Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
In the near future, the CAA will launch new flights from Danang (Vietnam) to Savanakhet, Paske and Vietiane (Laos), as well asfrom Phnom Penh to Bangkok (Thailand), Guangzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong (China) and Seoul (the Republic of Korea).
(Source: VOV)
luang prabang airport Taxi
A seminar was held in Phnom Penh on April 24 by the Cambodia Angkor Air (CAA), a joint venture between Vietnam Airlines (VNA) and the Cambodian Royal Government.
Cambodian Secretary of State and CAA Chairman Tekreth Samrach said Cambodia is famous for its thousands of large temples, including the Angkor complex in Siem Reap province, beautiful beaches in Koh Kong and Kampot provinces and waterfalls in Ratankiri, Mondonkiri, Strung Treng and Kratie provinces.
However, the country’s tourism potential is not yet fully tapped due to lack of information and inadequate infrastructure.
The Cambodian Ministry of Tourism claimed that about 3.5 million foreign tourists, visited the country in 2002, mostly from Vietnam, China, Thailand, the Republic of Korea and Japan.
In the meantime, the numbers of tourists to Thailand and Singapore were much higher (around 20-25 million).
According to plan, the CAA will create the best conditions for tourists to explore the three most attractive destinations on a single air route from Phnom Penh to the ancient cultural sites in Siem Reap and beautiful beaches in Sihanouville city, while increasing the number of international air flights form Phnom Penh and Siem Reap to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
In the near future, the CAA will launch new flights from Danang (Vietnam) to Savanakhet, Paske and Vietiane (Laos), as well asfrom Phnom Penh to Bangkok (Thailand), Guangzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong (China) and Seoul (the Republic of Korea).
(Source: VOV)
luang prabang airport Taxi
Taste a fascinating Ha Long Carnival
Taste a fascinating Ha Long Carnival
Ha Long Bay has no longer been Vietnam’s own heritage since it was recognized as a world natural heritage by UNESCO in 1994. Thus, it’s Quang Ninh’s great responsibility to enhance the value of this site and attract more and more travelers.
Ha Long Carnival has recently become attractive and important event which lures the large participation of local people, domestic and international visitors.
Ha Long Carnival was first organized in 2007 with the main purpose to create a place for Ha Long Bay and other participating countries to exhibit all their unique culture features, as well as enjoy Vietnam’s exciting atmosphere of colors, friendship, solidarity and joyfulness. This is also a great opportunity to promote not only tourism values of Ha Long Bay, but also the tourism industry of Vietnam.
The carnival is the busiest, most crowded and most delightful to people in Ha Long. Tourists from everywhere in Vietnam and other countries, approximately dozen thousands of people, come to Ha Long.
The carnival including an opening ceremony, art performances and a street show is often participated by thousands of local artists, models and dancers, and art troupes from China, Laos and the Republic of Korea together with the parade of flower carriages featuring Quang Ninh’s tourism resources. Travelers might find on the stage and in the street Laos dancers with their traditional dance moves, Korean dancers in Hanbok dancing with a drum on hands, or performers from Quang Ninh in blue costumes representing the vast sea.
There would be no end to the delightful night after everyone, performers side by side with all the audiences create another stage right on the streets to dance and sing free-style. The festival seems to reach its most exciting part at this point and the night seems to last forever.
Untitled “Quang Ninh's Colours – Integration and Spread”, Ha Long Carnival 2013 will be held in Hoang Quoc Viet street, Ha Long city on April 27. The event is to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding Quang Ninh province, spotlight the province’s tourism potential and honor heritage values of Ha Long bay - Natural Wonder of the New World.
(Source: Quang Ninh Portal)
luang prabang airport Taxi
Ha Long Bay has no longer been Vietnam’s own heritage since it was recognized as a world natural heritage by UNESCO in 1994. Thus, it’s Quang Ninh’s great responsibility to enhance the value of this site and attract more and more travelers.
Ha Long Carnival has recently become attractive and important event which lures the large participation of local people, domestic and international visitors.
Ha Long Carnival was first organized in 2007 with the main purpose to create a place for Ha Long Bay and other participating countries to exhibit all their unique culture features, as well as enjoy Vietnam’s exciting atmosphere of colors, friendship, solidarity and joyfulness. This is also a great opportunity to promote not only tourism values of Ha Long Bay, but also the tourism industry of Vietnam.
The carnival is the busiest, most crowded and most delightful to people in Ha Long. Tourists from everywhere in Vietnam and other countries, approximately dozen thousands of people, come to Ha Long.
The carnival including an opening ceremony, art performances and a street show is often participated by thousands of local artists, models and dancers, and art troupes from China, Laos and the Republic of Korea together with the parade of flower carriages featuring Quang Ninh’s tourism resources. Travelers might find on the stage and in the street Laos dancers with their traditional dance moves, Korean dancers in Hanbok dancing with a drum on hands, or performers from Quang Ninh in blue costumes representing the vast sea.
There would be no end to the delightful night after everyone, performers side by side with all the audiences create another stage right on the streets to dance and sing free-style. The festival seems to reach its most exciting part at this point and the night seems to last forever.
Untitled “Quang Ninh's Colours – Integration and Spread”, Ha Long Carnival 2013 will be held in Hoang Quoc Viet street, Ha Long city on April 27. The event is to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding Quang Ninh province, spotlight the province’s tourism potential and honor heritage values of Ha Long bay - Natural Wonder of the New World.
(Source: Quang Ninh Portal)
luang prabang airport Taxi
Attractive cultural activities during DIFC 2013
Attractive cultural activities during DIFC 2013
As one of the cultural activities during the forthcoming DIFC 2013, a programme entitled “Cultural Festival Day - International Cuisines 2013”, the first of its kind in Da Nang, will take place at the local General Science Library from 27 - 30 April.
Co-organised by the city’s Centre for Events and Festivals Organisation, the Russian Consulate General in Da Nang, and the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Viet Nam, the event will showcase the cultural values and culinary arts of the 5 participating teams at this year’s DIFC. They are the USA, Russia, Japan, Italy and the home team Da Nang-Viet Nam.
With their unique designs, the 5 stands at the event will introduce cultural values as well as display traditional dishes from the participating countries. These unique dishes will be prepared by the city’s prestigious hotels, restaurants and service providers. In particular, the Furama Resort will make Vietnamese dishes, accompanied by the Hoang Anh Gia Lai Plaza Hotel with Italian dishes, the Tulip Restaurant with Russian delicacies, the Tay Viet A Company with American dishes, and the Kita-Guni with Japanese ones.
Local residents and visitors will also have an opportunity to gain an insight into the cultural values of the 5 countries, and learn more about the cultural and spiritual lives of their people.
On 27 and 28 April, visitors will be enchanted by a wide range of attractive cultural activities, including the Japanese tea ceremony and the traditional art of Origami or folding paper to make models, plus calligraphy and making sand and stone paintings. In addition, a photo exhibition entitled “Smog in Sa Pa”, featuring photos taken by photographer Tran Phuoc Chinh, will open at 8.30am on 27 April.
Many musical performances along with fashion shows featuring the traditional costumes of the 5 countries will also take place in the evenings of 27 and 28 April. The programme will also attract visitors with speed eating and beer drinking competitions on 28 and 29 April, bartender performances on 27 and 29 April, and other small-scale activities.
(Source: Danang Today)
luang prabang airport Taxi
As one of the cultural activities during the forthcoming DIFC 2013, a programme entitled “Cultural Festival Day - International Cuisines 2013”, the first of its kind in Da Nang, will take place at the local General Science Library from 27 - 30 April.
Co-organised by the city’s Centre for Events and Festivals Organisation, the Russian Consulate General in Da Nang, and the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Viet Nam, the event will showcase the cultural values and culinary arts of the 5 participating teams at this year’s DIFC. They are the USA, Russia, Japan, Italy and the home team Da Nang-Viet Nam.
With their unique designs, the 5 stands at the event will introduce cultural values as well as display traditional dishes from the participating countries. These unique dishes will be prepared by the city’s prestigious hotels, restaurants and service providers. In particular, the Furama Resort will make Vietnamese dishes, accompanied by the Hoang Anh Gia Lai Plaza Hotel with Italian dishes, the Tulip Restaurant with Russian delicacies, the Tay Viet A Company with American dishes, and the Kita-Guni with Japanese ones.
Local residents and visitors will also have an opportunity to gain an insight into the cultural values of the 5 countries, and learn more about the cultural and spiritual lives of their people.
On 27 and 28 April, visitors will be enchanted by a wide range of attractive cultural activities, including the Japanese tea ceremony and the traditional art of Origami or folding paper to make models, plus calligraphy and making sand and stone paintings. In addition, a photo exhibition entitled “Smog in Sa Pa”, featuring photos taken by photographer Tran Phuoc Chinh, will open at 8.30am on 27 April.
Many musical performances along with fashion shows featuring the traditional costumes of the 5 countries will also take place in the evenings of 27 and 28 April. The programme will also attract visitors with speed eating and beer drinking competitions on 28 and 29 April, bartender performances on 27 and 29 April, and other small-scale activities.
(Source: Danang Today)
luang prabang airport Taxi
Southern Traditional Cake Festival to be held in HCMC
Southern Traditional Cake Festival to be held in HCMC
The third Southern Traditional Cake Festival will take place from April 26 to May 1 at the Phu Tho Stadium in District 11 in Ho Chi Minh City.
During the five-day festival, about 100 varieties of traditional cakes from the southern regions, dating back thousands of years will be displayed.
The most famous of these well-known traditional cakes are ‘Banh Tet’, a cylindrical glutinous rice cake filled with green bean paste and pork fat; ‘Banh U’, a small pyramid shaped glutinous rice cake; ‘Banh Khot’, a molded rice cake with green peas; ‘Bánh Tam Bi’, a silkworm noodle cake with pork skin; ‘Banh Tet La Cam’, a violet cylindrical glutinous rice cake; and another one which is a Can Tho specialty.
The basic ingredient for all these cakes is rice flour.
The festival will have an exhibition area, photo galleries, a performance area, arts and crafts display, local products and traditional food brands.
Visitors will also be able to participate in the making of different kinds of cakes, folk games and contests such as wrapping of the cylindrical glutinous rice cakes, pancake frying and trimming of vegetables.
(Source: SGGP)
luang prabang airport Taxi
The third Southern Traditional Cake Festival will take place from April 26 to May 1 at the Phu Tho Stadium in District 11 in Ho Chi Minh City.
During the five-day festival, about 100 varieties of traditional cakes from the southern regions, dating back thousands of years will be displayed.
The most famous of these well-known traditional cakes are ‘Banh Tet’, a cylindrical glutinous rice cake filled with green bean paste and pork fat; ‘Banh U’, a small pyramid shaped glutinous rice cake; ‘Banh Khot’, a molded rice cake with green peas; ‘Bánh Tam Bi’, a silkworm noodle cake with pork skin; ‘Banh Tet La Cam’, a violet cylindrical glutinous rice cake; and another one which is a Can Tho specialty.
The basic ingredient for all these cakes is rice flour.
The festival will have an exhibition area, photo galleries, a performance area, arts and crafts display, local products and traditional food brands.
Visitors will also be able to participate in the making of different kinds of cakes, folk games and contests such as wrapping of the cylindrical glutinous rice cakes, pancake frying and trimming of vegetables.
(Source: SGGP)
luang prabang airport Taxi
Biggest Food&Hotel exhibition opens in HCM City
Biggest Food&Hotel exhibition opens in HCM City
The Food&Hotel Vietnam 2013 fair opened in Ho Chi Minh City on April 24 which saw the largest ever number of participating businesses, 434 enterprises from 35 countries and territories.
Sapporo Beer, one of the oldest and most popular beer brands in Japan, and many other food products of Japan are being showcased for the first time, besides an impressive pavilion of the European Union.
The exhibition, the sixth of its kind, creates opportunities for domestic and international firms to share experience and learn from the world’s leading experts in food and hotel sector.
First organised in 2004, Food&Hotel Vietnam has become one of the leading events in the field in Vietnam, driving the development and growth of food and hotel sectors in the country.
The food, beverage and hotel industries in Vietnam continue keeping the momentum of robust growth and development, said Tee Boon Teong, Country Head Representative of Singapore Exhibition Services Company, adding that international investors are still eyeing the market.
(Source: VNA)
luang prabang airport Taxi
The Food&Hotel Vietnam 2013 fair opened in Ho Chi Minh City on April 24 which saw the largest ever number of participating businesses, 434 enterprises from 35 countries and territories.
Sapporo Beer, one of the oldest and most popular beer brands in Japan, and many other food products of Japan are being showcased for the first time, besides an impressive pavilion of the European Union.
The exhibition, the sixth of its kind, creates opportunities for domestic and international firms to share experience and learn from the world’s leading experts in food and hotel sector.
First organised in 2004, Food&Hotel Vietnam has become one of the leading events in the field in Vietnam, driving the development and growth of food and hotel sectors in the country.
The food, beverage and hotel industries in Vietnam continue keeping the momentum of robust growth and development, said Tee Boon Teong, Country Head Representative of Singapore Exhibition Services Company, adding that international investors are still eyeing the market.
(Source: VNA)
luang prabang airport Taxi
Activities celebrate Quang Ngai Sea Week - luang prabang airport Taxi
Activities celebrate Quang Ngai Sea Week
A wide range of activities took place in the central province of Quang Ngai on April 25 to celebrate “Le khao le the linh Hoang Sa” (Hoang Sa Soldier Feast and Commemoration Festival) and the 2013 Quang Ngai Sea and Island Cultural Week.
Collections of arte facts from the Sa Huynh and Champa Cultures found in Quang Ngai province’s waters and Ly Son Island are on display at an exhibition themed “Quang Ngai-Hoang Sa, Truong Sa, and Sea and Island Cultural Heritages.
The exhibition shows the tools that soldiers of the Hoang Sa Flotilla used during their time on Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos more than 300 years ago, as well as replicas of boats the flotilla used in the Hoang Sa Soldier Feast and Commemoration Festival.
Maps and historical documents proving Vietnam’s sovereignty over the two archipelagos, and family records of clans, who first settled in Quang Ngai’s coastal areas are also on display.
As many as 100 photographs featuring the land and people of Ly Son Island district, home of the Hoang Sa Flotilla, together with 3,000 books and 70 newspapers and magazines on Vietnam’s sea and islands can be seen at another exhibition, which kicked off on April 7 and will last until May 4.
Around 150 pictures on the national sea and islands drawn by local children are also on display at the ongoing children’s painting contest and exhibition.
A food festival and programmes introducing domestic and international tours were also held as part of the week of activities.
(Source: VNA) : luang prabang airport Taxi, luang prabang airport Taxi, luang prabang airport Taxi
A wide range of activities took place in the central province of Quang Ngai on April 25 to celebrate “Le khao le the linh Hoang Sa” (Hoang Sa Soldier Feast and Commemoration Festival) and the 2013 Quang Ngai Sea and Island Cultural Week.
Collections of arte facts from the Sa Huynh and Champa Cultures found in Quang Ngai province’s waters and Ly Son Island are on display at an exhibition themed “Quang Ngai-Hoang Sa, Truong Sa, and Sea and Island Cultural Heritages.
The exhibition shows the tools that soldiers of the Hoang Sa Flotilla used during their time on Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos more than 300 years ago, as well as replicas of boats the flotilla used in the Hoang Sa Soldier Feast and Commemoration Festival.
Maps and historical documents proving Vietnam’s sovereignty over the two archipelagos, and family records of clans, who first settled in Quang Ngai’s coastal areas are also on display.
As many as 100 photographs featuring the land and people of Ly Son Island district, home of the Hoang Sa Flotilla, together with 3,000 books and 70 newspapers and magazines on Vietnam’s sea and islands can be seen at another exhibition, which kicked off on April 7 and will last until May 4.
Around 150 pictures on the national sea and islands drawn by local children are also on display at the ongoing children’s painting contest and exhibition.
A food festival and programmes introducing domestic and international tours were also held as part of the week of activities.
(Source: VNA) : luang prabang airport Taxi, luang prabang airport Taxi, luang prabang airport Taxi
Monday, December 10, 2012
Japan pledges ODA provision to Vietnam
Japan will maintain the official development assistance (ODA) for Vietnam’s socio-economic development projects, PM Yoshihiko Noda has said.
Japan's PM Yoshihiko Noda (left) received National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung who is on an official visit to the country.
Noda made the commitment at a December 7 reception for Vietnam’s National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung who is on an official visit to Japan.
He confirmed his government’s resolve to strengthen cooperation in various areas with Vietnam, considering this one of Japan’s priorities in its development cooperation policy.
The 2009 signing of the Vietnam-Japan economic partnership agreement opened up great prospects for comprehensive cooperation between the two countries, he said.
The PM suggested that both sides continue expanding cooperation in all areas to supplement each other.
For his part, Hung appreciated Japan’s continued provision of ODA capital to Vietnam to develop infrastructure, human resource training, support industry, environmental protection, and climate change adaptation projects.
Vietnam respects Japanese ODA and puts it under the microscope to ensure it will be managed and used efficiently, the chief legislator assured Noda.
He briefed his host on the results of his visit and said the two countries need to increase high-ranking delegation exchanges and work closely together to successfully organise the Vietnam-Japan Friendship Year in 2013 to mark 40 years of diplomatic ties.
He expressed hope that the PM will encourage Japanese businesses to pour more investment in Vietnam.
The National Assembly and Government of Vietnam will create the best possible conditions for Japanese businesses to operate profitably in the country, making a practical contribution to developing the two economies, he said.
During his official visit to Japan starting on December 4, NA Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung held talks with Hirata Kenji, chair of the Japan's Upper House, and met with Emperor Akihito and former Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama.
http://www.dtinews.vn
Japan pledges USD2.6 billion in ODA to Vietnam
The Japanese Government has committed to grant USD2.6 billion in official development assistance (ODA) to Vietnam in 2013, nearly doubling last year’s figure (USD1.4 billion).
The announcement was made by Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam, Tanizaki Yasuaki, at the three-day which opened in Hanoi on December 10.
He highly valued Vietnam’s macroeconomic policies to ensure sustainable growth through its 10-year socio-economic development strategy and five-year socio-economic development plan.
He suggested Vietnam implement specific measures on economic restructuring, with a focus on building a healthy financial system, settling bad debts and rearranging State-owned enterprises (SOEs).
He stressed that Vietnam’s sustainable growth is the key to regional stability and development. Japan will continue supporting Vietnam’s efforts in developing infrastructure and human resources, he added.
Earlier on December 7, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda stated that Japan will maintain ODA funding for Vietnam’s socio-economic development projects while receiving Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung.
He confirmed his government’s resolve to strengthen cooperation in various areas with Vietnam, considering this one of Japan’s priorities in its development cooperation policy.
http://www.dtinews.vn
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Arriving in luang Prabang
Most buses and mini-vans arrive in luang Prabang a few kms from the centre, where many tuk-tuk drivers or representatives of guest houses will pounce on you as soon as you step off your bus. Most will show fotos of accommodation and will try to persuade you to stay there. Pick a suitable one, then they usually try to stick you in a tuk-tuk for a couple dollars, but it is quite easy to persuade them to give you free transportation should you decide to stay in their GH.
TRAVEL BY BUS HERE..NO RAIL..
LUANGPRABANG Whenever I can when travelling I always, if possible ,travel by train as I beleive it is the best and most comfortable way to travel...unfortunately there are no more trains in Laos so the next best cheapest thing is a bus..The busses are generally I found to be in good condition very modern,fast,and clean, for long distance services ..ie: Luangprabang-Vang Vieng-Vientienne..also they are very reasonably priced and usually full.so book a day or so prior to your journey..
Get yourself some wheels. A great way to get about Luang Prabang and the surrounding countryside is to hire a scooter, the all-purpose vehicle of Southeast Asia. Having ridden bikes as a young man, I am quite comfortable with scooters although I would suggest if you have limited or no experience, this region is maybe not the place to learn. In town, the traffic is the usual chaos with people apparently going where they want and road signs ignored totally. Out of town, apart from Highway 13, the roads can be a little tricky, especially if you cross to the far bank of the Mekong. If you are confident though, you can save yourself some money on the tours to the likes of Pak Ou caves, and the two main waterfalls.
I rented a bike from Pinekham Services as it was near my guesthouse. It was the standard 100cc Wave with 71,000 km on the clock and Heaven knows how many more not. It had brakes as soggy as an Irish February and had obviously seen much better days. However, it sufficed for my needs.
It cost 100,000 kip per day and, as is usual, you had to deposit your passport with them. You are required to leave the machine back full and there is a convenient Caltex filling station just along at the other end of Visounarath Road.
It is located on the (only) roundabout on Kisarth Settathirat Road, at the junction with Visounarath Road.
http://www.virtualtourist.com
Getting from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap
Getting from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap
Hi, Just wondering if anyone has flown Laos airlines route Luang Prabang to Siem Reap? Any advice on the safest way to get from LP to SR?
=> In terms of safety Lao are on a par with any of the other regional carriers... modern fleet of ATR Turbo Props and A320's... which means they're as safe as any other airline which can fly you from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap by whatever route... and all of those are significantly safer than any road option you might choose. No concerns.
=> Yes Capn but, it is just that when you have a "problem" you tend never to have any more. Suppose I am cynical because I like ships.
=> We flew with Lao last year from the Plain of Jars - Vientiane - Pakse and eventually on to Siem Reap and they were fine. If anything their aircraft interior decor is completely over the top with something that resembles a cross between a latter-day electric cool-aid acid test and being immersed in a tropical fish tank. Have to say though they are one of the only airlines in the world that I've flown with that consistently departed early once everyone had checked in.
=> fantastic, thanks for the replies. flights booked and I feel alot better about it now
http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Hi, Just wondering if anyone has flown Laos airlines route Luang Prabang to Siem Reap? Any advice on the safest way to get from LP to SR?
=> In terms of safety Lao are on a par with any of the other regional carriers... modern fleet of ATR Turbo Props and A320's... which means they're as safe as any other airline which can fly you from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap by whatever route... and all of those are significantly safer than any road option you might choose. No concerns.
=> Yes Capn but, it is just that when you have a "problem" you tend never to have any more. Suppose I am cynical because I like ships.
=> We flew with Lao last year from the Plain of Jars - Vientiane - Pakse and eventually on to Siem Reap and they were fine. If anything their aircraft interior decor is completely over the top with something that resembles a cross between a latter-day electric cool-aid acid test and being immersed in a tropical fish tank. Have to say though they are one of the only airlines in the world that I've flown with that consistently departed early once everyone had checked in.
=> fantastic, thanks for the replies. flights booked and I feel alot better about it now
http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Getting from Luang Prabang / Laos to Siem Reap / Cambodia
Getting from Luang Prabang / Laos to Siem Reap / Cambodia
So, I'm in the midst of planning a trip with a friend in January-February 2013, covering Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. We're trying to get from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap, and it would seem we can either go down Laos (Bus to Vientiane, bus to Pakse, bus to Siem Reap) or through Thailand (Bus to Vientiane, overnight sleeper to Bangkok, train to the Thai-Cambodian border and bus from there to Siem Reap). Any advice out there as to which way to go? It would be nice to see more of Laos, but if it's at the expense of ridiculous amounts of time and effort.... Unfortunately it will not be overly long before Tet in Vietnam by that stage of the trip, so huge delays would be rather unfortunate (planning to be in HCMC by Tet). Any help much appreciated! :) ???
=> from central bus station Vientianne take pick up outside morning mkt next dorr to sth east bus terminal and bus to Nahin for Konglor caves and after back to junction route 8 & route 13 and take overnight bus to Pakse and don det Pakse travel do a deal from Pakse rto Phnom pen or siemn reap with stoppover on don det and you just get GH to telephone them and they will arrange to collect you and put you on bus to Phnom pen from mainland. If possible get your Cambodian visa before you enter as scams are afoort also in Pakse and don det they will rip you off for vis fees so go toe Cambodian embassy in Vientianne for your visa. at border they try and charge you extra $3-$5 and also avoid thetemp health check $2 scams plus $2 keep my family rich leaving laos scam Ha! Ha! you leave don det around 830am and arrive late evening in Phnom pen
=> 5 countries in 2 months, looks like you will spend half your time on a bus. LP to SR by bus will take about 36 hours.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com
So, I'm in the midst of planning a trip with a friend in January-February 2013, covering Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. We're trying to get from Luang Prabang to Siem Reap, and it would seem we can either go down Laos (Bus to Vientiane, bus to Pakse, bus to Siem Reap) or through Thailand (Bus to Vientiane, overnight sleeper to Bangkok, train to the Thai-Cambodian border and bus from there to Siem Reap). Any advice out there as to which way to go? It would be nice to see more of Laos, but if it's at the expense of ridiculous amounts of time and effort.... Unfortunately it will not be overly long before Tet in Vietnam by that stage of the trip, so huge delays would be rather unfortunate (planning to be in HCMC by Tet). Any help much appreciated! :) ???
=> from central bus station Vientianne take pick up outside morning mkt next dorr to sth east bus terminal and bus to Nahin for Konglor caves and after back to junction route 8 & route 13 and take overnight bus to Pakse and don det Pakse travel do a deal from Pakse rto Phnom pen or siemn reap with stoppover on don det and you just get GH to telephone them and they will arrange to collect you and put you on bus to Phnom pen from mainland. If possible get your Cambodian visa before you enter as scams are afoort also in Pakse and don det they will rip you off for vis fees so go toe Cambodian embassy in Vientianne for your visa. at border they try and charge you extra $3-$5 and also avoid thetemp health check $2 scams plus $2 keep my family rich leaving laos scam Ha! Ha! you leave don det around 830am and arrive late evening in Phnom pen
=> 5 countries in 2 months, looks like you will spend half your time on a bus. LP to SR by bus will take about 36 hours.
http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Airport Taxi to the center of Luang Prabang, Laos
Can anyone tell me if I can make arrangement with the airport shuttle after I arrive at Luang Prabang Airport and pay in USD?
=> Tuk-tuks are your best and cheapest bet. It's only a 15 to 20 minute tuk-tuk ride from the airport to the town centre. If you know what hotel you are staying at, the driver will drop you at the door. Probably around 50,000 kip.
=> There is a monopoly at the airport and there are no tuk-tuks. You pay in advance for a mini-van to take you to the center of town and it is 50,000 kip or US$6 (yes you can pay in $). No need to reserve in advance.
=> Tuk tuk into town is nowhere near 15-20mins ride! Try about 5-7 mins max. You can pay the minivan service (as noted 50,000kip or $6USD) and it's ridiculously easy to walk 100m to outside the gates and grab a tuk tuk. If you have some Lao and good negotiation skills you may be able to get a ride for 20,000kip (but they may not take USD), or 30-40,000 if you're not strong on either!
http://www.lonelyplanet.com
Luang Prabang Taxis & Luang Prabang Rental Cars
Don't leave your fellow traveler floundering on the curb. Tell us whether a car rental is important in Luang Prabang or if taxis are the way to travel. What's parking like, how much does it cost, and what are the local driving laws a visitor should know? How do you hail a cab, signal that you need a ride and tell if a taxi is available?
Luang Prabang Traveller Article: http://www.tripadvisor.com
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