From LuangPrabang, we decided to get out the climb. Because flights to Chang-Paradise (North Pearl of Thailand, where we decided to stay for a couple of days) there are no direct flights - you need to fly for almost a day with curvature trails for insane money. On the ground, the bus journey takes about the same time. But in Mekonga, you can get to the northern border of Laos with Thailand just in five hours. In this option, and decided to stop. True, before buying a ticket, no one warned us that the journey is dangerous for life ...
On the berth, we were met a pair of flat town, which even externally inspired special trust. In addition, they were without a roof. And if you consider that from the sky, the water has already been strengthened from the sky (summer in Southeast Asia - the rainy season), then the journey clearly did not promise to be pleasant. Honestly, I was sure that we will slowly pursue the waves of Mekong on some kind of cute shoe, and then suddenly - two unreliable boats.
All our baggage was packed in waterproof bags.
- What are you, what boats? - I began to explain to me a local employee who saw our undisguised disappointment. - In this part of Mekong, you are unlikely to meet. After all, the water level in the river is constantly changing, so there is a chance to get a stranded even away from the shore.
After that, smiling girl gave us rescue vests, raincoats and ... Protective helmets. I felt that frustration was replaced by a banal panic. Why do we need a helmet?
- Boats rushing quickly - eighty kilometers, - the girl continued with the same disarming smile. - And if at such a speed to get to the shallow or stones, then without a helmet it will be very dangerous.
Mekong looks pretty friendly, but it turns out, you never know what awaits you around.
Wait, we did not agree! What scams, what stones? We are not Kamikatse, seeking extreme entertainment, but only peaceful travelers who have decided to save time and money.
- And often do you have boats on shames or stones? - I asked, hoping that we were now explained that there was nothing to worry about to worry about.
- Well, once a day happens. But you do not worry, you will go with a very experienced our employee. In addition, the boats are two: if something happens to you, then the second will always force, - with these words, the girl deftly fastened the vest on my chest and pushed to the boat. Maybe refuse, not too late?
Continued ...
Read the previous history of Olga here, and where it all starts - here.