Visit Vang Vieng to watch the sunset amidst the beautiful scenery.

Perhaps Vang Vieng is the most impressive blend of pristine nature and boundless fun. From majestic mountain scenery and lush green fields to thrilling adventure activities, it attracts a large number of backpackers, creating a vibrant and captivating atmosphere.

The moment I set foot here, my youthful heart suddenly became more vibrant, my adventurous spirit seemed to quicken, a heart captivated by the glorious sunsets along the Mekong River.

Enjoy panoramic views at Namxay Viewpoint

What motivated me – someone who had just been diagnosed with knee pain and advised against trekking – to relentlessly climb these rugged rocks to conquer a peak over 350 meters high? The breathtaking scenery, offering a panoramic view of the majestic landscape. And Ha, my friend who went with me, read Google reviews saying it was only 150 meters, which sounded easy. But then, after 150 meters, I saw a sign indicating 200 meters, so I continued climbing, only to find the peak still a considerable distance from 350 meters. What a sweet deception!

From above, Vang Vieng stretches out before my eyes with its majestic limestone mountain ranges, lush green fields extending to the horizon, and the Nam Song River winding gracefully through nature. A motorbike perched precariously on a mountaintop – an indispensable symbol in those impressive check-in photos. Standing on the high rock, feeling the cool breeze, under the vast sky, fatigue is just a feeling, but I feel incredibly free.

Nestled at the foot of Nam Xay, Vang Vieng boasts a contrasting yet captivating beauty. Besides its pristine natural landscapes, this small town is also notable for its vibrant bars, bustling hostels, and exciting adventure activities. In the evenings, Vang Vieng takes on the allure of endless parties.

On our way to Namxay Viewpoint, a paradise often described as "Ha Long Bay on land," we easily found and immersed ourselves in the Blue Lagoons – a series of scattered natural pools. The crystal-clear, turquoise waters, surrounded by lush green forests and majestic limestone mountains, offered the perfect opportunity to swim, play with the natural fish, and truly relax after an energetic morning of hiking.

With three Blue Lagoons each boasting different highlights, we had a great time swimming in Blue Lagoon 1 and found it lively with many visitors, featuring a wooden bridge, a Tarzan swing, and a diving platform to try our hand at freefall jumps into the cool water.

An ethereal sunset amidst a sky filled with hot air balloons.

The sunset in Vang Vieng is breathtakingly beautiful. As the sun begins to set, the sky gradually changes color from blue to pinkish-orange and then to a deep purple, reflecting onto the tranquil Nam Song River. On the vast grassy area, hot air balloons float in the air, creating a spectacular, picturesque scene.

We sat together, savoring the leftover baked potato from breakfast, feeling warm both in our stomachs and in our hearts. Suddenly, I thought, the ideal trip would include Han, Ha, Han's boyfriend, and Ha's boyfriend—a perfect group of four, enjoying the most beautiful moments of the day together.

Sunsets are beautiful not only because of their colors or scenery, but also because of the people who share them with us. It's a beauty that needs no words, only presence and feeling with all the senses. As Mr. Dang Hoang Giang once wrote in "The Beauty of Ordinary Scenery," appreciation sometimes doesn't come from words, but from the quiet yet profound connection between humans and nature, with themselves, and with those they love.

If we ever have the chance to return to Vang Vieng, we will still spend an afternoon sitting on the grass, watching the sun set behind the limestone mountains, listening to the rustling wind, and letting our hearts slow down. Because perhaps, moments like these are the most memorable aspects of any journey.

Everyday "specialties" in Vang Vieng

There wasn't much to eat in Vang Vieng, but what ultimately stuck with us were the fragrant roasted sweet potatoes and the chewy, sticky sweet potato rice we enjoyed along the way, under the glorious sunset – a warm and intimate experience close to nature.

In the morning, a simple bowl of plain rice porridge or sticky rice wrapped in banana leaves is enough to start the day gently. These simple dishes are closely associated with the peaceful pace of life here, bringing a sense of familiarity to travelers from afar.

Along the way, the aroma of roasted potatoes and corn fills the air, and the rich, crispy coconut pancakes entice everyone to stop. Amidst the majestic nature, these simple, rustic dishes not only satisfy the hunger but also warm the heart.

For me, Vang Vieng is a strange symphony of pristine nature and vibrant life. A day here is full of flavor: climbing mountains in the early morning sun, swimming in the blue lake, or savoring a piece of roasted sweet potato under the sunset – these are the most memorable moments. If I have the chance to return, I would still want a day like that, simple yet fulfilling.

Currently, direct flights from Vietnam to Laos are very convenient with Vietjet and Vietnam Airlines, and the high-speed rail system running along northern Laos will be a great advantage for everyone's promising journey to explore Laos.

Text and photos: Han Thuong