 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Dec 19, To Huay Xai, Laos
Crossing the Mekong from Chiang Khong in Thailand to Huay Xai in Laos is a convenient way to enter Northern Laos. From Huay Xai you can head up to China, across to Vietnam and down the Mekong to Luang Prabang. We had thought of going to the far north of Laos, but the weather reports were poor, with near freezing temperatures - so we decided on two days on the slow boat to Luang Prabang
VIP bus
Arcade bus station, Chiang Mai
Mini vans from Chiang Mai to Chiang Khong were booked solid for the next two days - but a VIP bus goes at 8.30 am from the arcade bus station. Peter booked tickets the afternoon before, just to be sure of seats.
The VIP bus is a much better way to do this journey, more comfortable than the minivans, and half the price. The 4.5 hours is about the same journey time.
To Chiang Khong
The bus journey was really quite enjoyable. The VIP bus was air-con with water and snacks supplied, plenty of leg room, and quiet background thai music.
The route goes through some impressive mountains and scenery and past the huge lake at Phayao.
We didn't linger in Chiang Khong itself, but instead headed straight down to the border crossing by tuk-tuk - so we could stay overnight in Huay Xai.
To Huay Xai, Laos
The border crossing is ad-hoc to say the least. You have to remember to go to the Thai immigration building first to get your exit visa stamped, it's easy to walk straight past this. Then carry the bags down a mud bank to catch a boat across to Huay Xai on the opposite bank of the Mekong
