There is no better way to travel in Laos, than by bicycle. It is convenient, affordable, healthy, but most importantly environmentally and culturally friendly. We cycled from the Chinese border at the Nam Ha National Forest Preserve in the north to the Cambodian border at the Mekong River’s 4000 Islands in the south, totaling over 1500 kilometers. This experience has left a lasting impression on me, not only because of the incredibly rich and friendly culture, but also because of the convenient and sustainable nature of cycling. 
Highway 13 runs the entire way, and except for a few small sections (one or two days) in the north, it is in exceptional condition, with very little traffic. Car and truck drivers alike are friendly and polite, slowing down and giving you plenty of room as they pass. They even often wave and honk; not the “get the hell out of my way before I run you over” honk that we got all through China, but an encouraging and friendly “hello” honk. 
The friendliness resonates throughout the entire country. As soon as you cross the border from China you can see an immediate change. It is clear that Laos is a very poor country, but that their spirits must be of the richest in the world. Children stop whatever they are doing to run out and greet you with an ambitious wave and shout “Sabaidi!” It is not uncommon for an entire school yard to clear out to slap your hand as you pass by and quickly practice any English words that they know: “Sabaidi! Thank you!”
We were met with this friendly and hospitable nature everywhere we went in Laos. From north to south, there were always services every few kilometers welcoming us in, and we never had a problem finding a place for lunch around noon, or a guesthouse in the evening. On top of this we were always welcomed in with open arms and gracious hospitality.
Finally, cycling allows you to really experience and respect Lao culture and their environment. Rushing though on bus from one city to the next, from one tourist destination to the next, you never really get the time to enjoy it all and experience the true culture and pristine environment. The Lao lifestyle is much slower than Western culture, so take it slow, take it in, and give yourself the opportunity to genuinely support cultural exchanges. On a bicycle Laos will leave you with a lasting impression of peacefulness and friendship, while you leave nothing else but your cultural exchanges and smile.
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2 comments:
Hey Jesse,
Its Sarah Brooks....this entry is your best yet! So awesome what you are doing...keep up the good work!
Thanks Sarah! Your work is much more inspiring. Wish I could make it up to see it first hand. I think we'll be in Bangkok around February 20th for a few days. Any chance you'll still be around?
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