Laos

While I was getting ready for my first trip to Laos, there came a moment when I suddenly had doubts about whether I could get good enough material to make an interesting photo-album. Perhaps this was because Laos doesn't have the grandiose architecture associated with Angkor Wat or Bagan? Or perhaps that the land that is now Laos was under the sway of the country's more aggressive and powerful neighbours for many centuries? Although some of this was true, in reality I quickly got the special atmosphere of Laos after spending some time there. In fact it really seemed that the low-key intimacy of this small country's charming spontaneity is its most attractive feature. The mountain rivers, the caves, and the morning mist hanging over the jungle-clad mountain-tops make Laos the perfect destination for any kind of eco-tourism trip. 

Even so, it would be mistake to think of Laos as only having a closer communion with nature on offer. Equally fascinating is the heritage of Laos's many different peoples – their traditions and lifestyles, and the chance of trip into the distant villages where life has changed little over many years. On top of all this, there is Laos's rich and multifaceted history. For me the history is of especial interest, because there is very little published in Russian – but this just adds piquancy to the experience of collecting information right there on the spot. Another big plus Laos has to offer, in my view, is as a country with a lot of opportunities for independent exploration by younger travellers. There are so many different route options to choose from – many are inexpensive, and in a safe travel environment you can easily and quickly change your plans on the fly.