We, three people from three different Lao cities, embarked on an eight-day journey for eight thousand baht.

We have heard about the beauty of Laos for a long time, including its landscapes, people, cities, and beautiful tourist attractions. This is a brief review of our recent trip to Laos.

The excitement began from the moment we started planning our trip. We were three friends from Laos, and we had eight days and eight thousand baht to spend.

We've compiled all the excitement and fun of our Laos trip, along with the total expenses, right here. We started our journey with no set schedule, no accommodation booked, and only a deadline to return for work. We were originally a group of five, but surprise! We ended up with three members at the last minute. Let's see how our adventure unfolds...

On the first day, we started our journey from Phetchaburi Province with 8,000 baht in our pockets. The bus fare from Phetchaburi to Bangkok's Mo Chit Station was 140 baht. We boarded the bus from Phetchaburi at 4:00 PM and arrived at Mo Chit Station in the late evening around 6:00 PM. We immediately rushed to find a bus to Udon Thani Province. We went to the passenger building and took the elevator. We asked a group of students where they were going, and they said they were going to Udon Thani. We bought tickets in a confused state for 350 baht. While waiting for our departure, we went to find some snacks. Our bus was scheduled to leave at 7:30 PM and arrive in Udon Thani at 6:00 AM. We took care of personal matters, had breakfast, and bought a bus ticket to Vientiane for only 80 baht. Our bus was scheduled to depart from Udon Thani Bus Terminal at 8:00 AM.

09:30 AM: We took a car across the border. We filled out immigration forms and went through border procedures. We paid a 5 baht border crossing fee and exchanged our cash for 5,000 Lao kip, which was equivalent to about 1.6 million Lao kip at the time. Wow! We were rich! 555 Let's see how long this money will last.

Upon arriving at the bus station, we were greeted by a throng of tourists and tour operators. To avoid the overwhelming crowd, we crossed the street to purchase a Lao SIM card. Unsure of the duration of our stay, we opted for a 7-day SIM card for 35,000 kip. We then proceeded to search for accommodation and attractions online.

At noon, after walking a considerable distance and inquiring about several accommodations, we were dissatisfied with the prices and availability. We decided to continue exploring until we stumbled upon a guesthouse (the name of which escapes me). The price was reasonable at 180,000 kip per night for three people, and they offered bicycle rentals. We rented two bicycles for 20,000 kip, again split between the three of us. As the afternoon approached, we searched for food and found a delicious pho restaurant where we shared two bowls for 49,000 kip. We then continued our exploration by cycling to the Black Stupa.

Let's take a quick spin around here and then head over to the Chai Gate.

The majestic Patuxai archway offers stunning panoramic views of Vientiane. A visit to this iconic landmark is a must for any traveler to the Lao capital. After admiring the cityscape from above, we proceeded to the revered Pha That Luang temple, where the entrance fee is 10,000 kip per person.

We arrived here in the late afternoon and were about to head to the Mekong River, but on the way we came across this place, the War Museum. The entrance fee here for 3 people and 2 cars was only 4,000 kip.

After that, we chilled by the Mekong River. Riding a bicycle here is very painful because the road is full of gravel, red clay, and mud after the rain. However, the atmosphere is absolutely amazing.

After relaxing, we felt hungry and decided to find a restaurant along the Mekong River. We spent 169,000 kip on this meal, which we split three ways. We then continued to the bustling black market along the Mekong River, where we found a wide variety of shops selling all sorts of goods. After that, we returned to our accommodation.

The next morning, we checked out of our accommodation and walked to the bus station to catch our connecting bus. However, on the way, we decided to make a quick stop at Wat Si Saket. The entrance fee to the temple was 10,000 kip per person.

After that, we took a car to go to Vieng Xai. We looked at the cars and got a car for 10:30 am. The price was 80,000 kip per person. At this time, we had time left and were very hungry, so we walked around looking for something to eat. We found this restaurant, which serves delicious pho, khao piak, and bread. It was really, really delicious. If I have the chance to come back here again, I will definitely eat at this restaurant again. Oh, this meal cost us 60,000 kip, divided by 3.

Vientiane is not just a stopover city, it's a must-visit destination.

10:30 AM. Time to hit the road. We're traveling by bus, and the driver says it'll take 3-4 hours. Okay, time for a nap.

13:00 p.m. It was time for the car to stop for lunch. We had slept a lot and weren't very hungry. The weather was nice, with light rain falling all the way, making it even more comfortable to sleep. So we bought some snacks, grilled rice, and grilled pork to eat.

16:00 Arrival in Vang Vieng

After a seemingly short journey, we arrived in Vang Vieng. Upon arrival, a free shuttle service transported us from the bus station to the town center. After securing our accommodation, we explored the town and discovered a charming guesthouse called "Champa Lao" for 540,000 kip per night. With two nights at our disposal, we aimed to explore the town and capture its essence.

After storing our belongings at the accommodation, we went for a walk to find food and rent a motorbike. However, due to fatigue, we ended up walking around and ended up buying a tour for 120,000 kip per person, which included a free bicycle. After that, we rode our bikes to Tham Jang Cave. On the way, we came across the Orange Bridge.

We were chilling here for a bit, then we realized it was getting late. We hurried to the cave, but it was already closed. We were too late. TT

We decided to change our plans and relax by the Song River. The rain was falling softly, and we sat there eating and enjoying the rain.

We ordered a lot of food, which cost 205,000 kip. We split the bill three ways. Before leaving, we bought hats, bags, milk, water, and snacks to keep us going. It rained non-stop from the evening onwards. It's time to hit the hay so we can recharge for tomorrow's activities.

8:00 AM: We walked to the tour shop to board the bus. There was also a morning market here, but it had closed due to heavy rain. We had breakfast, which was pho, for 30,000 kip, which we split three ways.

9:00 AM. We boarded the vehicle and set off on our journey. Wow! The scenery along the way is breathtaking.

Our first stop was Tham Chang Cave, where we paid our respects and prayed for blessings.

And do you see that? An elephant-shaped rock.

Let's go. Then we continued walking to the water cave.

The journey to the cave requires passing through a village and then walking along a rice paddy embankment for a distance that is not too far, or perhaps it is far, but the view is so beautiful that you forget the time. Upon reaching the cave, we had lunch and then continued with activities. This involved sitting on inner tubes and entering the cave, with everyone equipped with a flashlight, inner tube, life jacket, and then sitting in this manner to enter the cave in a single file line.

As we drifted further into the cave, the darkness gradually enveloped us. However, the fear was absent, replaced by the boisterous energy of the large crowd.

The monkeys were sleeping in various positions, some lying on their backs, some on their stomachs, and some hanging from ropes. Occasionally, they would get up and walk around for a bit. The guides told us to turn off our lights, and it became completely silent.

The cave here is beautiful and very long. If you want to enter the cave but are too lazy to walk, you can try floating around in the water cave.

Our next task after exiting the Tham Luang Nang Non cave was to kayak down the Song River.

Our gang is like this.

Let's start paddling.

Our journey continued as we paddled, taking breaks when we grew weary. The current carried us along, but in some sections, the water was so strong that we had to be cautious of capsizing. We witnessed several boats capsizing right before our eyes, and some became entangled in the nearby bushes.

Kayaking here is a lot of fun. The 5-kilometer distance is just enough to enjoy the views of the water and the mountains on both sides. The final stop on this tour is the Blue Lagoon. There are 5 Blue Lagoons in Laos, but the one the tour took us to was the closest and most crowded. The water was very cold because it had been raining. That's the end of my review. 555

We suspect that other Blue Lagoons are more beautiful, less crowded, and perhaps larger, but this is as far as we can go. We're heading back now.

17:00 We returned to our accommodation and showered, then went for a walk to the night market. However, it started to drizzle, so we continued on. We ended up sitting and shivering while enjoying a delicious hot pot. The hot pot cost 110,000 kip, which we split three ways.

Last night, we met a Lao girl named Nam Fon at a barbecue restaurant. She invited us to have some beers at a nearby restaurant, and we couldn't resist. We stayed until midnight before heading back, leaving our friends with her. Surprisingly, our friends didn't return until 3 am, even though we had planned to visit Pha Ngern at 6 am the next morning.

6:00 a.m. Everyone was fast asleep, leaving me to wake up, shower, and get dressed alone. Okay, I thought, I'll go alone. I rented a car to Pha Ngern for 100,000 kip, which should have been split three ways, but since I was alone, I had to pay for it all. TT I took a short ride to the entrance of Pha Ngern, where the entrance fee was 10,000 kip.

Let's get started, even if it's just me!

In reality, ascending here alone is not as daunting as one might imagine. With courage, physical strength, and the confidence to avoid fainting, the climb is achievable. The path is not overly steep, and fortunately, the recent rain has cooled the air, making the ascent pleasant.

Our favorite place in Vang Vieng besides the cave is here. If you come to Vang Vieng, don't forget to stop by here. It doesn't take long, but it's so much fun.

After admiring the beauty of the mountains, rice fields, and mist, we continued our journey to Wiang Tha Ra. We saw many people taking pictures with the wooden bridge and rice fields, and we wanted to do the same.

However, we were denied entry. Feeling disheartened, we returned to our accommodation and took a refreshing shower. Our companions were still sound asleep. With checkout approaching, we woke them up. Afterwards, we grabbed a bite to eat and booked bus tickets for our onward journey to Luang Prabang.

14:30 p.m. is the time we left Vang Vieng to continue to Luang Prabang. The bus fare is 16,000 kip per person. We sat in the van and continued on our way. It rained lightly. We climbed higher and higher into the mountains. The air was a bit cool. Most importantly, the view, the view along the way.

18:00. We dozed on and off in the car until we arrived here, Luang Prabang. We planned to stay here for two nights and then return to Thailand in the late afternoon. Let's see, we have two full days to explore.

We arrived in the city center and checked into a budget-friendly hostel near the dark market. The price was 40,000 kip per person per night, so for two nights, it cost us 80,000 kip. After dropping off our belongings, we immediately went out to find something to eat. We love this place so much! The food is similar to sukiyaki, but the dipping sauce is made with chili peppers and mala spices. It's incredibly delicious! The price varies depending on what you choose, and we spent 33,000 kip for three people.

Next, we'll move on to the barbecue grill located in an alley near the black market.

We spent 50,000 kip on this delicious meal, which left our hands trembling with excitement. Afterwards, we strolled through the black market, doing a little shopping.

The next morning, we woke up early to participate in the traditional Laotian alms-giving ceremony. We walked to the designated area, feeling slightly disoriented, as monks and vendors bustled around us. We received a set of offerings for 30,000 kip, which is the typical price for this ceremony.

After we finished making merit, we went for a walk at the morning market and bought some snacks to try.

And then we walked and walked, and we came out to the river.

We were walking and suddenly felt hungry, so we stopped at this restaurant. This rice noodle with chili paste dish costs 18,000 kip, which we split between two people.

We stopped to take some photos along the way.

We rented a motorbike for 100,000 kip to visit a waterfall, walk through the forest, and take a quick dip. We filled up the tank with 10,000 kip, which we split three ways.

10:00 AM: We started our motorbike ride from Luang Prabang city. The scenery along the way to Kuang Si Falls was breathtaking, with lush green trees and a refreshingly cool breeze. Around noon, we stopped for lunch at a roadside restaurant, spending 50,000 kip, which we split three ways. Finally, we arrived at our destination: Kuang Si Falls. The entrance fee was 20,000 kip per person.

Okay, it's like a waterfall in Thailand, right? After paying the entrance fee, we walked up the paved path. It took no time at all to reach Tad Kuang Si.

The crystal-clear water flowed refreshingly, living up to its reputation. We noticed a path leading further up, so we decided to explore. As we ascended, the breathtaking beauty unfolded before us.

Let's take a short break and then continue. We've been walking for a while and have reached the top of the waterfall.

Following a different path, we encountered an official who informed us that the waterfall we were approaching was called Tad. He then inquired if we were interested in visiting Kuang Si Falls, which was located further inside. Without hesitation, we enthusiastically agreed. We paid 10,000 kip per person for a bamboo raft ride, allowing us to admire the scenic beauty and tranquility of the surrounding landscape.

It didn't take long for my uncle to steer the raft to a place called Kuang Si. Kuang Si has a legend. You can try to find it and read it.

After finishing here, we were considering whether to go to the cave or turn back. But anyway, let's go all the way since we're already here. So we continued walking to the cave.

The journey is not difficult at all. No climbing is required, and the path is flat and shaded on both sides.

They walk happily, and it won't be long before they reach the cave. It must be a cave in the forest, quiet and peaceful.

We walked and walked, and suddenly, a child rode a motorcycle out of nowhere. Haha! We were surprised. We had walked so far, but we didn't give up. We walked until we reached a main road. Oh my! But it's okay, we'll continue. The cave should be… Oh! In front of the cave, there is a restaurant playing loud music. There are also cars driving around. Oh well, it's okay. We can hitch a ride back on the way back. Anyway, we're here. Let's go see the source of the water first. The water here is a small, crystal-clear pool. It's really, really clear.

We then walked to the cave. We each paid 10,000 kip for a flashlight and walked into the cave.

We ventured into the dimly lit cave, the three of us alone. Our exploration was brief. As we walked in, we encountered a fork in the path. We explored both the left and right branches, reaching dead ends each time. We continued to admire the beauty of the rocks until, surprise! Water began to flow into the cave. The light rain turned into a downpour, prompting us to make a hasty retreat. As we emerged from the cave, the rain intensified. The uncle who had rented us the flashlight was waiting for us at the pavilion. We had hoped to hitch a ride back with someone, but it was too late. Everyone had already left, as it was now evening and raining heavily. We had no choice but to walk back the way we came.

We walked back in the rain, fearing that if we waited for the rain to stop, it would be dark. The fun of this trip lies in the mud, the clay, the silt that flows down from the mountains, the rainwater, and the long walking distance. Here's a look at our condition.

Okay, okay, I can still do it. But as I walk, my legs start to feel like lead. Ugh.

Shoes off, finally! Whew, they were heavy and slippery, making it hard to walk. If I had kept them on, it would have taken much longer.

In all honesty, we enjoyed it. This is the kind of fun experience we were hoping for at a place like this. However, everyone's definition of fun and enjoyment is different. Okay, let's go to the waterfall for a bit and take a short hike.

Descending from the cave, we arrived at Kuang Si Falls. To our surprise, there was no one around. Everyone had already gone home. As we made our way down the slope, we encountered slippery terrain, which brought laughter and a sense of exhilaration. The atmosphere was peaceful, cool, and refreshing. It felt as if we had discovered our own private waterfall.

After returning to our accommodation in the late afternoon, we showered and changed before heading out for dinner. We planned to explore more of the area the following morning. Due to our active day, we were famished and indulged in a hearty meal. The bill, which included Luang Prabang salad, wide rice noodles, grilled pork and chicken, marinated pork neck, and a giant portion of sticky rice, came to approximately 40,000 kip per person.

The rain continues to fall, preventing us from venturing out. We search for a bus reservation and find a morning departure at 8:00 AM. Why so early? Why is there only one option? What about our trip tomorrow? We have no choice but to accept it. We book our return bus tickets for 230,000 kip each. For now, we bid farewell to this place.

We woke up early as usual today to catch the bus back to Thailand. We decided to visit a temple before leaving, even if it was just for a short while. We rushed to leave our luggage at the ticket office and then headed to the temple. But alas, we were out of money! We only had 500 kip left, which wasn't enough to enter any temple. The temple wasn't open yet, so we had to make do with what we had.

After finishing our business, we went to the ticket booth. It was already eight o'clock, but the car we booked still hadn't arrived. Our internet was also gone, and we couldn't make calls. We asked for help from the shopkeepers across the street, who contacted the driver. It turned out that he had forgotten about us. We ended up taking a motorcycle taxi to the bus station.

9:00 AM, we started our journey from Luang Prabang.

3:00 PM. We successfully passed through immigration.

5:00 PM. We arrived in Loei Province. We strolled around, had dinner, and then purchased bus tickets back to Mo Chit for 389 baht.

19:30 p.m. Our car departed from Loei Province. We slept soundly.

At 5:30 AM, our car arrived at Mo Chit Station. We then took a van to Phetchaburi Province.

07:30 AM: We arrived in Phetchaburi province and quickly showered and got dressed to continue our work at 8:00 AM. Hooray, the trip is over! 555

In this trip, we had 8,000 baht in cash. We spent a little less than 3,000 baht in Thailand and exchanged 5,000 baht for Lao kip. We mostly split the costs three ways, which made it very economical. We estimate that this amount would be sufficient for someone who doesn't shop or drink excessively. However, it's worth noting that beer in Laos is incredibly cheap.

Our biggest mistake on this trip was getting lost and confused about travel times. Why didn't we plan for travel time on the way back? Ugh! It's a shame we looked at the wrong day instead of fully enjoying Luang Prabang. But it's okay, Laos is easy to get to, anyone can go, and it's super affordable! See you again soon.