wish you were here
Pornsa k Na Na korn / Vang Vieng / LAOS
Given the natural beauty along the Nam Song River near a series of limestone cliffs, it’s no surprise that
Vang Vieng was a hit among backpackers after Laos opened up in the 1990s. Rafting, rock climbing and caving brought
the first tourists, but the adventure-minded were soon outshouted by hard-partying tubers. Happily, the
complexion of this town has changed in the past few years. Concerns revolving around foreign norms—read: bikinis
and beer—have prompted a search for the more traditional. You can find it just north of town, for example,
in a Lao market where local textiles and authentic food help provide an immersive taste. Tapping deeper into
the local culture, Lao, Kmou and Hmong villages are now on many visitors’ radars, while organic
farms offer both fresh produce and a chance to stay overnight in a more traditional setting. Eco-tourism
and volunteer vacations are more the norm. So, in lieu of a pint at an Irish pub, opt for a glass of organic
mulberry wine direct from the farm. And toast to the Vang Vieng that’s got its genuine groove back.
106 OCTOBER 2017 / TRAVELANDLEISUREASIA.COM