Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang

After a bit of a sleep in (Due to last nights epic drinking session at the Kangaroo Sunset), we loaded up the bikes and were off to Luang Prabang. It looked to be a beautiful day for a ride and our good friend Little Chris let us know that Route 4 is currently open (Not pending repair of landslides).

As with every time we have done this route, it was absolutely stunning! No issues to speak of just a fantastic ride. We only have a few photos for this post but stay tuned over the coming days i will upload a ride video from Vientiane to Luang Prabang including some of the most breathtaking scenery we have ever encountered.

Once we were in the clouds at the peak of Route 4, things chilled down significantly and we got a spot of rain which combined with oil from the trucks/busses and mud made for a slippery descent down the other side of the mountain. Lots of fun!!!! :D

After coming off Route 4 we stopped out our normal shop for a quick drink, snack and a few whiskey bottles of petrol for the thirsty bikes.

Only 60kms to go to Luang Prabang we charged along and managed to get there in good time with plenty of daylight left.

We checked into the fabulous Hotel Grand Luang Prabang for our 5 Star stay for the next 4 nights. Love this town and love this hotel. As we hadn't had a stop for a proper lunch we headed straight to the hotel restaurant for what was probably the nicest meal we have had the entire trip.

The hotel is situated in the grounds of the Xiengkeo Palace, the last residence of Prince Phetsarath. He chose this location due to the magnificent views of the Mekong and the tranquility and serenity of the rural life of Laos. We have the room closest to the Mekong river which spectacular views as you can see below, such a great choice when visiting Luang Prabang (Certainly not the cheapest option though).

Feeling very full we headed back to the room to pack our Laundry and head into town to find a cheap Laundry place. (Rather than paying nearly $2 US per item at the hotel). We decided to wander around the night markets to let our food settle before popping past our good friend Joy's Restaurant to say hello. So good to see you again Joy, can't wait to catch up with Dan the man and Paul over the coming days.

As i write this post its getting quite late and David has passed out. Time for a good nights sleep and probably a sleep in tomorrow before heading to get the bikes cleaned, oiled and catch up with Joy and friends in town.