Oct 29: Afternoon, Chiang Khong
We are nestled in Tammila's riverside cafe, drinking ginger tea. Every sip is comfortably warming as we enjoy the gentle breezes brushing the open-air cafe. I am reading Lonely Planet
about our next destination, Laos.When inspired, I drop my guide book to scribble a line or two in this journal. Annie is reading a novel, probably fantasy or romance, her two favourite genres. Two tables away, another occupant, a young Caucasian woman with long, blond hair, is also reading, writing and gazing the day away.
Periodically, the roar of flashy speedboats pierces the silence and we become distracted enough to pause for a drink while watching the commotion on the river. At other times, more placid slow boats and a barge or two ferrying goods and trucks drift past.
During a lull from boat-watching and journal scribbling, I look up to see two pairs of feline eyes lazily wondering over the cafe's occupants. Ah, must be the household cats. They look so settled, perched on top of one of those waist-high cabinets a few tables across where we are lounging.All this lazing around is very nice, but we should gear up for Laos tomorrow. I think I will suggest a walk by the river this evening, before dinner. We may even bump into our landlady walking her dog, not to mention numerous cyclists and fellow strollers.
Last evening, we were extremely sedentary, choosing to enjoy the panoramic view of Laos across the river from our balcony, instead of joining the stream of walkers and bikers on the pavement below.
Today, the Mekong
at sunrise has been equally mesmerising. As the sun inches higher, the morning mist unveils Laos in ever sharper relief, reminding us that our stay in Thailand is almost over.Across the river, Laos
awaits.Budget (for two in baht)
Room >> B300
Breakfast >> B85
Groceries + Drinks >> B50
Lunch >> B95
Dinner >> B140
Next... Scammed in a sardine can
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