Phongsali (Phongsali)

Member Name: sun-is-shining

Product:	Phongsali
Date:	26/05/09 (1 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: You'll be the only Westerner

Disadvantages: Difficult to go there, not a lot to do

24 hours on a local bus sounded bad and turned out to be worse as soon as I saw the bus, holes in the roof and even in the floor, completely packed and dirty as hell. This was not the best start for the journey to Phongsali but it turned out to be ok. The rocky road - or collection of mud - however you'd like to call it - was a real effort for our bus. We got stuck more than once but this lovely Lao attitude 'We have time' made it worth looking out of the window and enjoying the stunning view, green mountains, deep valleys, all this unsoiled nature and a rice Paddie from time to time. Except of getting out of the bus at the wrong station first - but finding my way back in time - everything was great fun! Even the small accident with a truck was more interesting than scary and my Chinese helpers were really sweet.

Phongsali is a nice quiet town close too China. It's not one of the typical tourist places so there are seldom foreigners and one can feel that, not a big choice of accommodation and no public Internet. If you are looking for real nature and remoteness Phongsali is perfect for you!
We spend the evening together having dinner but I was quite exhausted after this 24 hour busride. We walked around town the next day, visiting some local villages where people probably never seen any tourists before.

There is not a lot to do so enjoy the breathtaking scenery and just walk around the little villages - expect lots of curious children to follow you and monks eager to practice their English to talk to you.

Buses from to Luang Praband leave once daily - roughly 12$ (2008) - there is no VIP bus! Phongsali is a nice stop if you are heading to China or Vietnam. Both border crossings are easily accessible!

Summary: nice place of the beaten track