... Vietnam was astonishing and the ladies unforgettable. I would've liked to have stayed a week longer as planned but China, and especially the bereaucratically entangled Tibet, beckoned. Getting across the Lao Cai - Hekou border was easier than anticipated, except for the heat and my excessive perspiring and body odour. Though the latter two issues may have advanced my passage through. As expected, all my bags and parcels were opened and inspected. The only query was with regards to the packets of Imana super soya mince I was lugging around.

 ... I crossed the Thailand and Laos border by ferry from Chang Khong to Hauy Xai late in the afternoon. I converted some forex and had a celebratory lunch at Nazim’s. Yes! There is Indian food in Laos. That did me a world of good in getting my digestive system and overall health back on track. Later, twice that afternoon I was even offered food for my Spirit. Weed, Opium and any other novelty drug to take you higher. Laos certainly was different from Thailand. Much can be said, but it is more of an experience. The video and photographs do it little justice ...

 G'day All

Apologies for the delay. I've been having a good time ... since my last e-mail I've seen and experienced a lot. Please excuse me for putting these events in point form. Time and awaiting adventures hinder me from appropriately describing all that has happened ...