I arrived this afternoon in Luang Prabang via Lao Aviation.  It was a little daunting - I was reading my guidebook mid-flight, and it said the US State Department says not to fly Lao Aviation because they refuse to reveal their safety record and they don't have backup parts!  Woops!  But the flight was fine...  We landed and came to a stop on the runway, then the pilot turned the plane around 180 degrees, and we taxied back down the runway we landed on to the terminal...  So, you can imagine how many flights (and therefore how many travelers) are here - not many!

 

There are no ATMs yet in the country of Laos.  There are two state television stations - they are on from 7PM to 11PM and reception is only in certain valleys. 

 

The highest denomination Lao currency bill is less than US $1.  Only two of the airports have security xray machines.  The per capita ANNUAL income is $260 US...  but, there are two internet cafes!!!

 

This is like a walk back in time.  Really amazing.

 

Anyway, I want everyone to know that I no longer have a phone...

 

and I will send Thailand report later.

 

Hope everyone is well.

 

Steve