Thakhek Looping: Last Day
Final day on the loop and I’m going solo! The group wanted to complete the loop but I had seen places and photos on the way I still wanted. So we split. Some journeys you can only do proper solo!
Early 630 start.
Before even taking my first photo, I splattered a bug with my cheek. Seconds later a piercing stinging ripped my face. Of all the bugs to hit I think I hit a bee! Hopefully the only casualty of today.
Now we’re talking. Blue ridge mountains…take me home..
This was already a good decision.
Fresh. Open. Natural. Light. Free.
Stopped near our first day rest stop for a coffee on the river. Delightful to feel the breeze under the shade watching life creep by.
Same same, but different.
I don’t know what it is about rice patties, but they just relax my soul. Maybe some deep Asian root is connected to this food and all its energy, but I feel restful just gazing over their golden green stalks.
I mean, look at that color!
Spent a couple hours here between driving fast through windy roads and looking for things to photograph. This was the jewel I was waiting for though. All my SEA desires are in these views. Had lunch at a local place without a tourist in sight. Spicy peppers made the afternoon hotter. The sun and clouds were just switching places making for intervals of intense sunshine and delightful shade. What could be better way to spend a day…
Dodging trucks and potholes made even the long sections of road quite thrilling and challenging. Long sun faded into golden hours. I could feel the burn of a long days ride. Racing to return now. Zoom zoom.
That farmer grind.
Just in time.
Ended the night with the crew. Their day went completely different from mine and I found out the easy way was not so easy. Nothing is in Laos apparently. Tony became the second casualty of the day and took the prize for biggest wipeout of the trip! What a champ.
I was so worn out, I didn’t take any more pictures after I finished. So use your creativity as you will. If it helps, everyone cleaned up real nice except Tony even though he fell and was covered in bandages. It was quite a spectacle, but that’s why he’s nicknamed Merguez.
Oh, and Ianis even shaved!
From left to right: Tony, Ianis, Leonie, me, Matthieu, Leo, Elise, Haylee, Fabio
I had the most amazing time on the loop with these people.
Everything was unexpected in Laos because I expected nothing. After meeting people, I hooked my wagon to theirs and went wherever the wind blew. Luckily for me, the groups that chose me were wonderfully unique and fun and undoubtedly cool. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.
The loop itself will resonate that much deeper in my memory because of the people I met here. Five minutes after it ended and I already cherish it so much. I look forward to whatever Asia has planned next. I hope our paths cross again, and if unexpectedly, even the better.
Safe travels. Bon voyage. Love you all!