Roundtrip Indochina

Via the banks of the Khan River, we reach the actual center of Luang Prabang. We visit Wat Phai Phutthabaat and, a bit further on, Wat Paa Phai. A young monk approaches us and starts asking questions—where we’re from, our names, and about our families. He’s clearly practicing his English. He also tells us his family lives in the countryside and that he hopes learning languages in the monastery will help him progress in life. A smart guy. As we walk on, I realize I brought a booklet with pictures from home especially for moments like this. Too bad I only think of it now. We have lunch by the Mekong River—a delicious tuna sandwich. In the afternoon, we continue exploring Luang Prabang and arrive at Wat Xieng Thong. This temple is one of the most beautiful and important in Luang Prabang. The sim is decorated with mosaics. On the back of the temple, a tree of life is depicted in mosaics. In the funeral carriage house across from the sim stands a large, gilded funeral cart adorned with the seven-headed naga serpent. This carriage was made for King Sisavang Vong. Even though we’ve visited several temples today, each has its own unique atmosphere. I truly enjoy this.