Vang Vieng | The Cole Walkabouts

Whoever says there’s no fun in Laos obviously didn’t make friends –at all.

If you’re looking for adventure like water sports, treks or you just want to escape from your stressful city, this place is a MUST VISIT. With a fascinating karst hill landscape and the relaxing laidback environment of the small town along the Nam Song River –Vang Vieng district in Vientiane Province is the perfect Lao getaway. In this town, there are far more foreigners from all parts of the world than the locals, lurking around in their board shorts and bikinis, barefoot. Most speak English well; but you know, when you are in a happy place, there’s only one language spoken and that is PARTY. Food and drinks are awesome beyond awesome. And FUN, is not just a word –it’s the way of life.

Vang Vieng is a three-hour drive from the capital. The ride, my dear, is nothing but bumpy and full of sharp curves and puddle. If you got motion sickness, I recommend a huge-ass bag. If you are a fan of water sports, don’t miss the opportunity to go Slinging and Tubing *sic*. Play football with the locals on their makeshift field by the river, eat papaya salad and drink buckets of cocktails and beer while you’re high from endorphins. Go around trekking, kayaking, boating, biking and even just walking. And at night, experience Vang Vieng nightlife under the stars –or in our case, the rain. It’s like what the hedonists say, Eat, Drink and Be Merry… = Vang Vieng.

: Seeing something like this every morning is a sure stress-reliever. Shot in July 2009

: Hello Vang Vieng! Eat first before anything else

: Oh yeah, the Sling. I don’t know what the Banana is for

: In the country where Football is a spoken language

: Okay, don’t judge me. I wasn’t checking out this dude…

: But just look at that!! I had to approach him just to get a full view.

: At the Mojito Bar, chillin’

: See what I mean?

: Be careful when you jump

: Having fun, yeah?

: Tubing *sic*… you sit on the tube and row your way down the river

: Just like this.

: Tubing can be very dangerous especially when you’re a little tipsy. Ride only when you can manage. Don’t push yourself too much, it might cost you your life.