One night in Vientiane

No restriction on power lines... ipods, pc's and any other device - just throw a line over.
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We took the bus from Vang Vieng to Vientiane on Sunday morning and this trip was a lot more pleasant - only left 30mins late and was an actual full sized bus that went at full speed when possible. The trip was a lot quicker only 3.5 hours as it was less distance (156km) and it was a lot flatter terrain to cover. Interesting all the same the driver had the front door open the majority of the way for "air conditioning". The road was still pretty bad and as we have experienced throughout Laos whether in a tuk tuk or bus - the driver continually has to toot the horn to warn buffalos, cows, baby goats (very cute!), chickens and kids to get off the road.

National sport in Laos - baloon popping.
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Were dropped at a very central spot and we (still travelling together with Dan) wandered to a guesthouse (Mali Namphu - very nice and although a few extra dollars a great choice). Wandered around the main part of town (is the capital of Laos but still very much a town vibe) and to the river to find somewhere there were actually some people for a drink and food. Ended up an Aussie expat's cafe which was little more expensive but ok. Also noticed what looks like the national sport - carnival like set up of blown up balloons which you throw darts at and if you pop three then you get a prize. They are set up all the way along the river! Poor performance by both Mike and Dan - booby prize mints only.

the driver continually has to toot the horn to warn buffalos, cows, baby goats, chickens and kids to get off the road.

ahhh propellers! Very good service with Lao Airlines.
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We wandered to the night food market which looked really good and decided would return later on (only 5pm at this stage) for some local food. I suggested bowling so after a beer in our lovely guesthouse garden/courtyard we found the bowling alley which was pumping! I had a disasterous two games (I beat Mike in Chiang Mai remember!) but with a strike in the final frame I still beat Dan so was happy with that outcome! As we left bowling we saw some lightning and it was drizzling but thought nothing of it as it had been drizzling for the last couple of days in Laos. But it poured down!! We got soaked, had to pass by the food market, and tried to run to the nearest restaurant for some cover. It was hilarious - Mike pulled out his poncho and I in particular was slipping all over the place and we were all completely soaked when we arrived at the Chinese dumpling place. One of the best meals and service since being in Laos and the end to a good fun night - our last one in Laos (little more rain on the walk back to the guesthouse, but a welcome relief not to be walking in the heat for once).

Collingwood bought the Beach Hotel - the Eagles have the Airport Cafe at Vientiane
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Vietnam here we come...