It’s hard to pick favorites when you are traveling. Each place brings new smells, feelings, languages and it’s easy to fall in love over and over again. A few places in the world have really dug their way into the middle of my heart.
The few days we spent in this beautiful, green country did just that. Everything about it connected with me in a way that I have not experienced during our travels.
Standing on the edge of the mighty Mekong River in the small town of Luang Prabang, I felt like I had just discovered a secret. One that gives you butterflies in your stomach and you want to share it with everyone and keep it to yourself all at the same time.
When I close my eyes, I can imagine a quiet morning coffee in the shop on the river. The power is out and the iced drink tastes amazing. I can hear laughter of the people catching up outside the window, some in Lao, some in French. The saffron cloaked monks walk by on their way to school. I can imagine the sounds of my feet crossing the bamboo bridge – it creaks just enough to make you hold on. The smell the food stalls at the night market are still lingering, especially the coconut pancakes.
I cherished every moment we had in this beautiful place. There were moments where tears fell down my face as I learned more about the UXOs and the dangers the Lao still face in their daily routines. Others were moments of complete bliss at we sat inside a Buddhist temple. There were moments of pure joy as I peddled a bicycle across a rickety bridge. I want to hold onto the magic of this place. It’s unique and special.
Laos, we will be back.
