On the road again..

Packed my bags, vacated my apartment and caught the overnight train north.  Sometime late yesterday morning I caught a bus for a short trip over the Mekong River on the Friendship Bridge from Thailand into Laos.  Sitting here this morning sipping a good cup of coffee certainly
doesn't feel like I'm in a different country, comparable to crossing Seattle into Victoria perhaps.  I heard from a few that there's really nothing to do in Vientiane (the capital of Laos).  That it's simply a crossing destination and preferable to move on from as quickly as possible.  I do see how upon first impressions one might think so, however, I've refrained from that conclusion and decided to take a bike ride along the Mekong, enjoy some local ice cream with this guy watching my back:

                                          

Accommodations are more than expected.  Large spacious room able to comfort a a party of 10 all to myself.  Bedding is limited but I managed to squeeze in 10hrs of sleep somehow.  The dog is a bit fussy and the cat likes to hang on with claws.  Enjoyed two delicious meals, one questionable one and several well appreciated Beer Laos'.  Today I'll sort out a method for hanging my art for Wednesday's fundraiser.  So far, I'd say Vientiane is okay..