I am travelling from vietnam (Hanoi) through Laos, to Bankok
(end of July)and am wodering how safe this is for a single
female? I am crossing from vietnam to Laos on the Cau Treo
crossing. Is this popular, is it safe? is there a better
crossing? Any tips for places to go in Laos? and any other
info would be much appreciated. Cheers.
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I was in Laos last February. I entered the country from
Thailand so I can't tell you anything about getting there
from Viet Nam. Once you're there, you should definitely
make your way over to Luang Prabang. The people are some
of the nicest I've ever come across. It's very safe, and
you don't get the constant bombardment of people wanting to
sell you goods or services. I think it's best described as
a vacation from your vacation.
The only problem I had during my 3 month travels around
Laos and Vietnam was in Muang Sing, Laos. Muang Sing is
right up in the Golden Triangle 10km south of the border of
China and 80 km east of Burma. There are loads of opium
addicts in this town (western and local). After spending 2
months in Laos I was pretty chilled out so I went for a
walk out in the paddy fields and subsequently was chased by
a group of boys. Had no idea what their motive was. If you
go there be a bit wary of the place. Most of the people are
really lovely, the guy who runs Muang Sing G/H is great
(across the road from the only 2 restaurants) but there is
a bit of a seedy element to the place. Laos is a fairly
safe place to go through as a lone female and most of the
people are really lovely but as in any culture there are
the horrid ones. I travelled though out Vietnam and Laos by
myself but regularly hooked up with other travellers to
share rooms etc. My highlights of Laos is Luang Prabang ( I
love wats so it was like heaven to me and Kuang Si Falls),
Dong Det (Island in Si Phan Don), Vientiene (which no body
who has been there can believe) and Savannakhet. If you are
looking for a place to chill for a few days head to
Savannakhet, there is absolutely nothing to do or see there
so you don't feel guilty about doing nothing or feel
compelled to go and see the wat/cave/waterfall. Vilaysak
G/H has hamocks in the garden, a courtyard etc to chill out
in. A word of warning. Buy some good books before you go.
Have a great time. The most important thing is to listen to
your instincts.
Had an email from a friend who has been thru Laos and he said that LP is great but there is a place between LP and Vientiane calle Vang Vieng and he recommends a day or two there. Lovely river, caves to explore, very laid back and friendly people. I strongly recommend you check out the Lonely Planet guide as well.
Enjoy your trip. I will be in Laos third week in June and expect it to be one of the highlights of my trip.
Have fun,
Samui girl