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This was a very diverse stop north of the capital city. After dealing with a very rowdy tour group on the train, we made it into Luang Prabang without too much trouble. We had a full itinerary that is reflected in the crazy diversity of photos I took there.
In addition to the models (gallery here), we got out to the Mandalao Elephant sanctuary. It was a great afternoon visiting the massive animals and going for a walk in the woods with them. I put those photos in a separate gallery (gallery here).
The Main gallery of photos includes a range of photos. Every day I was there, I went out for Sam Bat – the morning Alms of the Buddhist monks. I’ve never seen or heard of this, but according to the official tourism website: “Each morning, starting at around 05:30, saffron-robed monks and novices emerge onto the streets with their alms bowls (‘bat’). Awaiting them are Lao people who have already taken the time to prepare sticky rice and other foods; they will place a portion in the bowl of each monk who passes by. The ceremony is undertaken in complete silence.”. It went right by our hotel, so I went out 3 days in a row at 6:15 to try and get something unique.
Beyond that, we saw the sites, the villages, and nature. This was a great stop.
