Phim Hay 360s

When Laos began to truly open to tourism in the early 1990’s, visitors focused on the cultural riches of Luang Prabang in the north, and the southern regions remained for a long time a destination for the more adventurous travelers. But this is changing fast. With the remarkable improvement of road networks around the whole of Indochina, Champasak has become the center of a new buoyant backpacking scene commuting overland in luxurious sleeper buses between Vientiane and Phnom Penh. And with a bridge crossing over the Mekong that links Thailand and Vietnam along the east-west axis, getting across borders is now much easier.


Sand Bar Islands


Mention visiting an island in Laos and one will most likely meet with a perplexed gaze. The very idea of islands in Southeast Asia is so indubitably linked to visions of white sandy beaches, that it simply cannot fit Laos, a largely mountainous country with no direct access to the sea. But rivers too can harbour islands, and in the case of Laos, one has to take into account that the Mekong isn’t just any ordinary river. It is one of the longest rivers in the world, and the possibility of it giving rise to islands shouldn’t be regarded as impossible. However, the Lao name Si Phan Don, or Four Thousand Islands, that was bestowed on the lush and scenic Champasak province in Southernmost Laos is a little superlative, if not far-fetched. To meet with such an incredible number of islands, one has to take into account every single sand bar that emerges out at the peak of the dry season. That said, there are indeed a good number of islands inhabited all year round, the largest of which, Don Khone, measures no less than four-by-eight kilometers. At the height of the rainy season, some parts of the Mekong in Si Phan Don can span over 12 kilometers. This is also where the river suddenly drops in altitude, resulting in the formation of a few majestic waterfalls that have prevented thorough commercial use of the Mekong. One of these waterfalls, Khon Pha Pheng, is purpotedly the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia and, indeed, the impressive tumultuous flow of water stands as a stark reminder that the Mekong is also the 12th largest river of the world by volume.


The Two Dons

The islands of Si Phan Don are best explored by bicycle, cycling on sandy shaded paths across the forests or along the luxuriant river banks. Most activity takes place on the twin islands of Don Det and Don Khone, which are linked by a concrete bridge. This bridge was part of a train track built by the French to link Don Khone’s southernmost point and Don Det’s northern bank in an attempt to bypass the waterfalls and allow the transportation of goods on the Mekong. A short distance away from the bridge lies a rusting tiny locomotive that for many years commuted along the only railway track ever built in Laos. Don Det has attracted the younger segment of the backpacking scene, bringing a distinct hippy flavor to the place. Typical accommodations here take the form of hammocks hanging in the bungalows veranda, with a view over the river of course. The more comfortable accommodations are found in Don Khone. An interesting option is Sala Phae (Ban Khone Tai, Khong District, Champassak Province, +856-30-525 6390, +856-21-217 526, www. salaphae.salalao.com), which has floating raft rooms, where you can sleep in a large breezy room directly over the flow of the mighty river, watch the sunset from the veranda, and dip your feet in the cool water of the Mekong.

Pakse Crossroads


Si Phan Don, however, is only one of the many attractions that Champasak has to offer. The once sleepy little town of Pakse is right in the middle of the Indochina backpacker trail, and seems bent on becoming an important crossroad. In fact, judging by the number of luxury hotels under construction around town, Pakse has already become an attractive destination for a number of investors. Pakse too has its fair share of quaint colonial buildings from the turn of the 20th century which are an interesting combination of Art Deco and 1950’s architecture. Particularly arresting is a block of shophouses where one can see a clear chronological evolution of urban Southeast Asian architecture over the entire 20th century, from French colonial to 1990’s Post-Modern and Neo-Classical styles. And, with a scenic location at the confluence of the Mekong and the Se Don River, Pakse is actually quite a pleasant place to visit.


The Bolaven Plateau


Just one hour north of Pakse, with an altitude of around 1,000 meters, the Bolaven plateau was put to good use by French planters to cultivate coffee and tea. Today, a large quantity of the production is exported, and is one of Laos’s most important sources of foreign trade. This is the place to find cool air and nature at its best. Ecotourism has become a catch word in Laos, heavily encouraged by local authorities, and the Bolaven plateau has a lot to offer. You can enjoy scenic rides across forests, coffee and tea plantations; hop from one pretty waterfall to the next, stop in hill tribe villages to buy intricate hand-woven textiles or take the obligatory elephant ride. More adventurous travelers can rent motorbikes to explore the plateau on their own. The Bolaven plateau also has a few atmospheric accommodation options to offer in the form of bungalows overlooking cool waterfalls.


The Ruins of Wat Phu


Champasak is home to one of the oldest Khmer sites in existence—the ruins of Wat Phu. The origin of this temple is found in the shape of the mountain at the foot of which the temple started taking shape in the fifth century CE. The summit, the Phu Kao, immediately commands ones attention because of its resemblance to a linga, Shiva’s phallic symbol. Phu Kao was believed to be a natural linga, a spontaneous manifestation of the Hindu god. At the foot of the mountain, fl owed a spring, around which the temple was built. Later in history, that spring was used to keep the linga of the sanctuary perpetually wet, a set-up apparently unique to the Khmer world. Wat Phu presents fine examples of Khmer sculpture and is best visited in the early morning when the frangipanis lining the staircase leading to the sanctuary pervade the air with their heavenly smell. In order to be there in time for sunrise, it is best to stay in the nearby little town of Champasak that gives its name to the province, which was previously the capital of a short-lived, 18th century kingdom that has lost most of its former glory. There are a few guesthouses of fairly good standard. The best and most romantic option is La Folie Lodge (Don Daeng, District Pathoumphone, BP 668, Champassak, Lao PDR., 856-534-7603, reservations@folie-laos.com), a resort complete with swimming pool overlooking the Mekong and finely decorated teak bungalows set in the lush greenery of the island of Don Daeng. As the whole of Indochine opens up ever more to tourism, there will be fewer and fewer places like Champasak left to explore. Go now.

Source: AziaCity.com

t last, after researching destinations from the popular to the relatively unknown, here are The Top Ten Travel Destinations For 2008! From Safaris to South American paragliding this list of the top ten travel destinations for 2008 is sure to have something for everyone.

10. Antigua, Guatemala

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has charming cobble stone streets, active volcanoes, and enough charm to make you contemplate ripping up your return ticket home. This former capital was the political and economical center of Guatemala for over two hundred years before being decimated in 1773 by an earthquake.

9. Beijing, China

Playing host to the 2008 Olympic Summer Games, Beijing is sure to be a hot destination this year as it shows off all it has to offer to the world. This three thousand year old capital boasts such sights as the impressive Tienanmen Square, Temple of Heaven, and the Forbidden City. In addition, the Beijing Zoo is world class complete with panda bears and Bengal tigers. If that wasn't enough, a day trip to The Great Wall is feasible as it is only a two hour car ride from downtown!

8. Northern Ireland

A perfect trip for first time travelers, Northern Ireland offers the history and beauty of the rest of Europe minus the language barrier. The Mournes Stone walls are a perfect getaway from the busy cities and make for a fantastic spot for hiking. Whether your exploring the amazing Dunlace Castle or the mysterious Beaghmore Stone Circles, save some energy for a pint at the local pub after the sun goes down!

7. Quebec City, Canada

With it's skyline dominated by the one hundred year old Chateau Frontenac, the city of Quebec is as charming as it is French. First settled by the French explorer Jacques Cartier in 1553 Quebec later became a part of the French Colonial empire. Some argue that Quebec is "More French than France," and it's difficult to disagree. Whether your strolling down the narrow picturesque streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain along the St. Lawrence River or eating crepes in a cafe on a brisk October morning it's difficult to imagine that you are somewhere other than Paris. If you're looking for a European experience without the long flight Quebec is for you.

6. Cairo, Egypt

The legacy of the Ancient Egyptians is alive today through engineering masterpieces such as the Great Pyramids as well as the fermented masterpiece we now call "beer." While in Egypt the pyramids are a "must-see," but Cairo offers much more to travelers than that. Take a morning to shop and explore the Khan El-Khalili bazaar which has changed very little in the last 700 years. If bargaining for goods isn't your cup of tea, hire a guide to and see the sights of this historic city from a boat on the Nile. Cairo is rich in religious history and offers stunning attractions to explore covering Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.

5. Luang Prabang, Laos



For those looking for something exotic but not overwhelming Luang Prabang is the ticket. This UNESCO World Heritage City is situated on the Mekong River in central Laos. Whether your are enjoying the sights, sounds, and smells of the street markets or taking day trips to the exotic Kuang Si Falls a trip to Luang Prabang will cleanse your mind and invigorate your being. This is the perfect stop if you are going to, or coming back from a trip to Wat Phou. With Laos emerging as a popular vacation destination now is the time to go!

4. Salta, Argentina

Located in the Lerma Valley of Northern Argentina, prepared to lose yourself in a world filled with fantastic wine, Spanish colonial architecture, and unmatched charm. For thrill seekers, you can para glide from Mount Bernardo or white water raft in the cool currents of the Juamento River. For those looking to unwind, Salta has many vineyards to visit and hiking trails to enjoy. This a perfect trip for a two week getaway during winter months in the Northern Hemisphere.

3. Kotor Bay, Montenegro

Montenegro has now gained independence from Serbia and is leveraging it's natural beauty to win over tourists from every corner of the globe. With black mountains crashing into the sea this corner of the Adriatic delivers magnificent scenery uncontested anywhere else in the Balkans. If you get your fill of seeing the fjords from a birds eye view, take time to explore the city of Kotor and the picturesque deserted fishing village - turned resort - called Sveti Stephan. This relatively unknown gem will blow you away, like it did for me!

2. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul has served as the liaison between East and West for centuries, it's time for you to connect yourself with this great city. A perfect vacation for 2008, the sights are many, the foods are amazing, and the dollar is still strong here. Lose yourself in the crowds of the Grand Bazaar or in the beauty of the Hippodrome and Blue Mosque and bring yourself back at 5 Kat.

1. Serengeti Plain, Tanzania

Trade in your Planet Earth DVD box set for the real thing because the Serengeti brings the experience of high definition animal watching to a entirely new level! Here giraffes, lions, and elephants are as common as knock off Louis Vuitton hand bags sprawled out on the sidewalks of Rome. The inner child in you has always wanted to sport a khaki safari outfit and a pair of binoculars, so let loose and make 2008 the year you made the trek to explore the world you dreamed about as a kid.

Hopefully this list has inspired you to get out and explore new places and experience different culture. Like any top ten list there are always worthy places left off. In 2008 seek out new thrills and let the natural and man made beauty of this world make a profound and lasting impact on you. I encourage you to post your opinions and begin lobbying for you favorite locations in 2009!

Cheers!

This article may help you spend your US dollar wisely for your travel in 2008.
There are 10 countries in different part of the world that were awarded the cheapest destination 2007 by famous MSN travel magazine and here what they said about Laos:



Laos: Tranquility off the beaten track

Laos is one of the best bargains in Southeast Asia—and that's saying something, since most countries there are relatively cheap for travelers. Because tourism is only beginning to make inroads in Laos, visitors are not seen as mere revenue streams; locals extend a warm and genuine welcome.

Life moves at a languid pace in the former royal capital of Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, French colonial architecture coexists with dozens of graceful Buddhist temples, and monks in brilliant orange robes stroll the streets. You can find an inexpensive guesthouse for less than $20 a night; open-air cafes along the Mekong River offer absurdly cheap French and Lao specialties.

If you're backpacking, set off into the rugged countryside for caving, jungle trekking and a taste of traditional village life. In Xieng Khouang province, don't miss the "Plain of Jars," a mysterious field lined with hundreds of ancient stone urns.

For the full lists, check out the following link

Source: http://travel.msn.com/Guides/article.aspx?cp-documentid=414811

(KPL) This year, the number of tourist arrivals in the country has soared to 1.4 million, up over the previous year’s. The majority of tourists are from neighbouring countries, especially Thailand.

According to the Lao National Tourism Administration, the number of tourist arrivals in 2007 stood at 1.4 million, up from 1.2 million in 2006.
Mr Soukkaseum Phothilad, Deputy-President of the Lao National Tourism Administration (NTA) last week disclosed that this year the Lao PDR was able to earn at least US$ 200 million from the tourism sector.

He said that the major destinations were Vientiane Capital with 800,000 arrivals, followed by central Savannakhet province with 192,000 arrivals and Luang Prabang province with 151,700.
An NTA official said that the rise was attributed to the abundance in ethnic minorities, natural beauty, the world heritage status of tourist sites, archaeologies and the hospitality of Lao people.

Domestic and international tourists alike are looking for new and exciting places to celebrate the coming New Year, and the popular tourist town of Vangvieng in Vientiane province is ready to hold its own special countdown party on an island!

According to Head of Vangvieng's Tourism Administration Office, Mr Phouvieng Sykaisone, the district has organised a trade fair at the old airstrip, where tourists can enjoy browsing amongst stalls of local handicraft, fruit, household appliances and clothes.

“The trade fair, which opened yesterday and will continue until the end of the year, is a central component of our celebrations for the upcoming new year. But best of all, we will join with a variety of entertainment venues in hosting New Years Eve celebrations on Don Kang Nam Xong (Xong River island), in Savang village in the centre of town,” he said.

He added that the island was a suitably large area, on which organisers had prepared open fire places for visitors to sit or dance around if it took their fancy, as well as lucky draws, games of petanque and volleyball and musical acts to attract revellers on New Years Eve and New Years Day.

“Many people like to visit the island because it is a beautiful area surrounded by the gently flowing river and limestone mountains, and it is located right in the centre of town,” he explained yesterday in a telephone interview.

“Savang village is currently under development,” he added, “there will also be a local trade fair here, at a village meeting area in the old market.” The fair will sell local skirts ( Lao sin ), traditional handicrafts and food to tourists who come to welcome in the New Year.

The district currently has 86 restaurants and more than 1,000 rooms available, including three hotels and 63 guesthouses, he said.

“In Vangvieng you can open your window and drink in the beauty of the stunning natural scenery, in refreshingly cool weather,” said Mr Phouvieng.

Vangvieng has in the past attracted a generally younger crowd, who come to relax and enjoy the Lao countryside by floating down the river on inflated tyres (tubing), kayaking and swimming in the Xong River.

There is also a range of trekking options and many people go out to explore the caves hidden in the limestone outcrops. On the gastronomic front, one can sample organic wine, shakes and pancakes made from mulberries, along with healthy mulberry leaf tea and deep-fried tempura leaves eaten with honey.

The tourist town of Vangvieng is now booming, as it is a convenient stopping point for many travellers journeying by road between the two World Heritage Sites of Luang Prabang in the north and Vat Phou Champassak in the south.

By Panyasith Thammavongsa