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Boat races take over Luang Prabang

Posted by Andrea on (Updated: )  |  Leave a comment

Each year in early September the boat race festival takes place in Luang Prabang — what better way to take in the culture and hospitality of the Laos people. Here our Country Director Phaeng talks about their appeal …

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Each year in Laos there is a Boat Racing Festival that goes on during August or September, depending on Lunar Calendar. This is the biggest festival held on the Nam Khan River in Luang Prabang — there are so many boats that attend including racing boats from neighbor provinces. Boat racing is most fun time of the year for those who like to a good time because most people come to the races to cheer on the boats and ban the drums along the river bank. The boats each take about 35 people who race the boat by padding side-by-side hoping to beat each other. The festival starts in the morning and goes until late afternoon. If you perhaps to come to Luang Prabang during this time make you go early to pick the best spot for photo and get good view from beginning of the race until the end of the stage.

Taking part in this even you will get a true taste of Luang Prabang hospitality! So book one of our Laos tours for early September and take part in the fun.… Read more »

Kyaking in Laos — A trip down the Namkhan River

Posted by Andrea on (Updated: )  |  Leave a comment

Phaeng takes to the river once again for another Laos tour he loves!

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Kayaking is a great experience for all ages who want to be on the river. Not only is it good exercise but for those that like a little adventure when they travel it is a great way to get off the beaten path.

Kayaking is an activity that most people shouldn’t miss when taking a tour of Laos because it’s so excited and the best time, especially going with a group — we found it to be a good time with friends and great chance to spend some time in nature

The best place to do with kayaking in Laos can’t be anywhere beside Namkhan River because it’s a small river and shallow is enough for those who can’t swim well.  Of course when you book a Laos kayaking tour with Journeys Within you are paired with an adventure tour company that will ensure that everyone who hits the river has the training and proper guidance to enjoy the day.

Along the river we saw a lots of birds, fisherman and villages along the bank. We also came upon people who  go down to collect the rocks and sand to sell so  they can make some income for their family. Beside that we also saw the waterfall called Tad Sea which is another beautiful waterfall in Laos — one we include in other itineraries.

For our trip, they provided the safety training and explanation necessary to have me excited to get out on the water. The kayaking took us about 3 hours with an hour set for lunch on the river bank — a beautiful spot to enjoy to enjoy a bite to eat and a stunning view.

Other than the quintessential visit to Luang Prabang this has been one of my favourite tours available in Laos. I can say that despite being tired from the paddle and spending a few hours in the sun it was a wholly worthwhile experience — definitely something that I would recommend adding to any Laos itinerary.

 … Read more »