a little R,R and R (rest, relaxation and recuperation)

Our last destination in Laos - Four Thousand Islands. The most southern part of Laos where the Mekong River is at its widest, islands litter the channel, the water runs turquoise green and island life is even slower (we didn't think it could get any slower). This wasn't exactly "much needed R&R" but was a nice place to R after my little walking mishap. So while I sat in a hammock (which I probably would have done anyway) Ari went tubing from island to island, jumping from trees and rocks, and generally pretending he was the next Robin Crusoe.

The first day back on my feet, we decided it would be the perfect opportunity to take a 20km/12.4mile bike ride.

(We had to lift our bikes on to the guard rail of this bridge to let this truck pass)

Traveling from our backpacker island (Don Det) to the more local island, Don Khon we explored the island's rapids, beaches and small fishing villages.


Surprisingly, these tiny islands were extremely important in French Indochina - allowing for the export of goods from Laos and Vietnam to France. Here we are, sitting on what's left of the French loading pier (with Cambodia in the background)

(high up)

Interestingly France set up Laos' one and only railway line and the first bridge to span a part of the Mekong River. The 14 km railway line stopped during the second world war and locals have taken and used the metal from the train tracks.

All that's left is this abandoned locomotive...in someone's front yard. With our butts sufficiently numb (from biking) we luckily made it back to our guesthouse before dark.

I came to two conclusions that day
1. There's no reason banana seats should have gone out of style
2. Lance Armstrong must have buns of steel