Luang Prabang – Laos full of virtues

João Pedro Jorge gets lost in colourful streets and temples, traversing the peaceful waters of the River Mekong and entering the very heart of Kuang Si Falls to find a genuine and warm people. Everything happens in Luang Prabang, which “the best preserved city in East Asia”, according to UNESCO.

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“Getting out of bed before sunrise is a small price to pay to see a unique ritual. Every day, around six in the morning, hoards of monks, of all ages, walk the streets to receive offerings and food from the local inhabitants. The saffron orange robes file in orderly fashion where they are given portions of sticky rice, small amounts of food wrapped in banana leaves, sweets and anything else that fits in the baskets they carry on a strap. Around the temple, they divide the presents amongst themselves and prepare the day’s meals. I’m on my own pilgrimage and head for the city’s many temples. The details of each embellishment, statue, panel or mural are a wonder to behold.

Now I’m faced with the protagonist of this place. More than the main source of sustenance for many, the River Mekong is also the main means of communication. A myriad of boats and rafts cross the loamy and tranquil waters, exchanging provisions, people and goods from bank to bank and providing a magnificent sight for those travelling on the river. As incredible as the marine blue of the lagoons of the sumptuous Kuang Si Falls.

To recharge my batteries, I watch the sunset from the veranda of my original bungalow at Thongbay Guesthouse. After the peaceful jaunt of the day, I’m ready for round two: night time. After a delicious dinner – food in Laos is divine – I go in search of souvenirs in the night market, I wish they could fit into my backpack, which is now full of the peace of Laos.”

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