It was cold in the morning in the mountains and we shivered even in our jumpers and hoodies as we boarded the boat for the scenic two-hour cruise to Pak Ou.
Photos: Luang Prabang from the water (above) and Paul and Jola try to keep warm in the sharp morning air (below)
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Arriving finally at the caves and finally warming up, we clambered up to the Lower Cave (Tham Ting), which is quite literally covered with Buddha statue of all sizes and materials.
Photo: Pak Ou caves from the boat
The upper cave (Tham Phum) is dark and less decorated and is reached by 200 steps. We were promised vampires by the tour guide but unfortunately they never eventuated. And I was so looking forward to pushing Mormon propaganda.
Photos: The Buddhas of the Pak Ou Caves (above) and the Ban Pak Ou village viewed from the caves (below)
It was warming up by the time we started back and I fell asleep in the sunshine as we cruised back.
After a hurried and harried lunch, we set off for the Kuang Si waterfalls; three tiers of torquoise pools and waterfalls. You can swim but I didn't as I found the water found too cold. Others in the group did and said they found it bracing and refreshing.
Near the waterfalls is the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre where you can see bears that have been rescued from the cruel practice of' Dancing Bears'.
Tonight I'm off to see some dancing by the somewhat inaccurately-named 'Royal Ballet'. Really looking forward to it.
Photos: Kuan Si waterfalls
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