Laos - Part 3 - Vang Viang
We took off exploring once again on a rented motorcycle. We had wanted to return to the north of Laos since we were here five years ago. Plans changed, and we found ourselves heading south, along the twisty and winding roads into the karst mountain region of Vang Viang.
As we drove, we encountered life outside the big cities.
The river is our playground. How much fun is that?
Stilted homes along the riverbank. 
These little shelters are set up along the roadside. Sometimes they are market stalls selling fruits and vegetables, sometimes they are just a place to catch some shade and have a snack.
The construction of homes was varied.
Lunch stops on the road are always an adventure. This young couple was delighted when we stopped for some soup.
How green and tasty does that look?
The road is shared by everyone.
Tiny and tasty mandarin-like oranges were locally grown. Therefore, the stalls were set up, side by side, all selling…little tiny oranges.
Lettuce growing in roadside gardens.
Loads are always heavy, and outside the cities often carried on backs rather than bikes. We frequently see the heaviest loads carried by the oldest men and women. These are either filled with sticks for burning or the grasses for making brooms.
We met up with our new friends Rosie and Bryan, from Ireland in Vang Viang. Here they are sharing one of our favourite treats - banana/chocolate pancakes.
Happiness is a massage in southeast Asia…Indonesia, Thailand, Laos…same,same but different…but all very worthwhile…just check at our "after massage faces". Alison and I have done our best to part-take in these traditions every chance we can get. I have actually stopped counting. 
Jim and Omar booked a sunrise balloon ride...
and had spectacular views of the limestone karst mountains.
We then embarked on a kayak trip down the river.
It was oh so great to be paddling.
The scenery was spectacular…have I already said that?
While our guide, Moon, was barbecuing shish kabobs for lunch,
we paddled a group of local children in the boats.
Everyone in town was celebrating one night. Shops were closed and families were eating and drinking and dancing. There were games set up like a carnival.
The six of us were pulled into a family home to celebrate. There was cake and fried banana chips and beer, lots of dancing and heaps of laughter!
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