Ban Pak Beng Favorites

Favorite thing: Pak Beng is expensive little town comparing to other Lao places and the prices can compete those in central Vientiane and Luang Prabang. There are probably few reasons for it: its remoteness and steady influx of foreign tourist on slow boat from Huay Xay who have to spend a night here before they continue towards Luang Prabang as it's not possible for boats to float in the dark. We came here from Oudomxay and wanted to cross the Mekong in Pak Beng and then continue by road. However, we soon realised there is no such road from there on as the map promised and the only way of public transport to go on in Sayabuli province was the slow boat. Having realising that we had no choice but to book a room and only later when first boat arrived we saw streets really got crowded and there were more foreigner than Lao in the town. I was somehow glad there's no electricity after midnight there.

Fondest memory: In a daytime Pak Beng is sleepy town, no guests in restaurants and almost no poeple on the street. If you want to get out of town in Oudomxay direction (not difficult, it's the only road there) you will be revarded for nice views over very beautiful landscape and villages. It's pity many people don't know what they've missed.

Favorite thing: Dont expect to much comfort because this place is all about simplicity. It basically gives you a good indication as to how many laotians live. The infrastructure is basically non existant but if this stuff doesnt bother you then it might be an interesting experience.

Favorite thing: Pak Beng as much of Laos revolves around this amazing river. Its amazing to wake up in the early morning and see the fisherman go out onto the river and to see the almost endless procession of boats which causually float down the river. Its inspiring in a way to see life as it has been for probabaly hundreds of years.