'IT' Destinations for 2008

I was a bit saddened to see Laos as the #1 choice of The New York Times' 53 Places to Go in 2008 list. It was ten years ago that I visited this beautiful, undeveloped country, arriving by long tail to the village of Xieng Kok. We spoke not a word in common with any of the residents, but managed to sign our way into a floor to sleep on and a hearty meal - no thanks to Lonely Planet's completely useless first guide to Laos.

The next day, after a complimentary snack of barbecued bat, we drew a picture of a truck and found ourselves on a 6 hour, 4-wheel-drive adventure to Muang Sing, which was known for its incredible marketplace that brought villagers from miles around, eager to sell their goods. We encountered a handful of travelers, but mostly we had the town to ourselves. We felt like we had discovered a new planet. Children would poke and prod, giggle and cry, but everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming. I'd show off some photos, but this was pre-digital-camera era. I shudder to think what this quaint little town looks like today. Are there hostels, pizza joints and internet cafes?

I've since heard stories of Luang Prabang, the beautiful  European city where we made friends with a young monk who hoped we would sponsor some school books for him. I also had a run in with a baby monkey that got a little to exited by my earring and nearly pulled my ear off. Apparently it is now home to boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants.

Our flight from Luang Prabang to Vientiene, which was an old army airplane we took to avoid bandits on the road, was memorable not only for the crazy turbulence, but also for the fact that we first encountered our pilot while he was peeing in the bushes lining the tarmac.

Although I hope that New York Times - style recognition won't ruin what is left of this amazing culture. I was happy to see that I've experienced a good portion of these destinations already (and even live in one of them... San Francisco!) and that my next destination, Panama, is represented. Hopefully it won't be overrun in the next two weeks before I arrive!

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Comments

[Tiffany co]

Hopefully it won't be overrun in the next two weeks before I arrive!

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