Arthur's Diary, Week 1: Vang Vieng

Arthur is 65, retired, and spending three months travelling solo (with company when he wants it!) through Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. These are his diary entries - an honest view from the first ever DECADES trip, written for anyone wondering whether to make the leap themselves.

The first proper stop

The first proper stop was Vang Vieng. Very much an active town with lots of adventure sports and activities. It's calmed down a bit from its bad reputation of 20-30 years ago when sports like river tubing were really dangerous and any spirit alcohol was in danger of being contaminated.

It felt safe and vibrant with easy access to the Nam Xong river and the karsts - the fascinating rock structures in the pics. Home to some seriously steep walking paths, often giving way to magnificent viewpoint platforms.

Getting out and about

I managed a day out cycling between various lagoons where you can take a dip or just chill, had a scooter out to reach further afield including the Nam Xoy lookout. Only 380m but an unbelievably steep scramble in places. Great views from the top, as there were from the hot air balloon flight at dawn one morning.

Winding down

A sunset yoga session was fun and there's no shortage of really good food. Be it high end restaurant or street food, it's been quite amazing.