Perhaps Vang Vieng is an impressive blend of wild nature and unlimited fun. From the majestic mountain scenery, green fields to exciting adventure activities, where a large number of Western backpackers gather, bringing a bustling and attractive pace of life.
As soon as I set foot here, my youthful heart suddenly became more excited, my adventurous spirit seemed to quicken, a heart captivated by the brilliant sunsets on the banks of the Mekong River.
Beautiful sunset behind Hun and Ha
Panoramic view at Namxay Viewpoint
What made me – who had just been diagnosed with knee pain and was told to avoid trekking – so vigorously climb up the rugged rocks to conquer the peak of more than 350 m? Because of the beautiful scenery, where you can take in the entire majestic terrain. Because Ha, my friend who was traveling with me, read Google reviews and said it was only 150 m, which sounded easy. But then I passed 150 m, saw the 200 m sign, continued climbing, and finally the peak was still a long way from 350 m. What a sweet trick.
Motorbike on top of Namxay
From above, Vang Vieng stretches out before your eyes with towering limestone mountains, green fields stretching to the horizon and the Nam Song River winding softly in the middle of nature. The motorbike is precariously placed on the top of the mountain - an indispensable symbol in impressive check-in photos. Standing on a high rock, feeling the cool breeze, in the middle of the vast sky, it turns out that fatigue is just a feeling, but I am extremely free.
At the foot of Nam Xay, Vang Vieng has a contrasting yet captivating beauty. Besides the wild nature, this small town is also famous for its vibrant bars, bustling hostels, and attractive adventure activities. At night, Vang Vieng puts on the charm of endless parties.
On the way to the paradise known as “Ha Long Bay on land” at Namxay Viewpoint, we easily found and immersed ourselves in Blue Lagoon – natural lakes scattered around. The clear emerald water, surrounded by cool green forests and majestic limestone mountains, allows us to swim, play with natural fish and relax after an energetic morning of climbing.
With three Blue Lagoons with different highlights, we had a fun swim in Blue Lagoon 1 and it felt lively with many visitors, there is a wooden bridge, Tarzan swing and diving platform to try free jumping into the cool water.
Fantasy sunset in the hot air balloon sky
Sunset in Vang Vieng is breathtakingly beautiful. As the sun begins to set, the sky gradually changes from blue to pink-orange and then to a deep purple, reflecting off the gentle Nam Song River. Hot air balloons float in the air above the vast lawn, creating a breathtaking scene like a painting.
The enchanting sunset on the wild grass field
We sat together, nibbling on the leftover baked potatoes from breakfast, feeling both warm in our stomachs and hearts. Suddenly, I thought, the ideal trip would be with Han, Ha, Han’s lover and Ha’s lover, a group of four, just enough to fully enjoy the most beautiful moment of the day.
Delicious baked potato in the middle of nowhere
Sunset is not only beautiful because of its colors or scenery, but also because of those who enjoy it with us. It is a beauty that does not need words, only presence and feeling with all the senses. As Mr. Dang Hoang Giang once wrote in "The beauty of ordinary scenery", enjoyment sometimes does not come from words, but from the quiet but profound connection between people and nature, with themselves and the people they love.
If we ever 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 wind whispering in our ears and letting our hearts slow down. Because perhaps, moments like that are the most memorable part of every journey.
Everyday "specialties" in Vang Vieng
There wasn't much to eat in Vang Vieng, but what remained in us in the end was the fragrant grilled corn and sweet potato, the sticky sweet potato sticky rice along the way, under the brilliant sunset, enjoying the warmth and closeness to nature.
In the morning, a bowl of plain white porridge or sticky sweet potato wrapped in banana leaves is enough to start a new day gently. These simple dishes are associated with the peaceful pace of life here, bringing a sense of familiarity to travelers from far away.
Plain white porridge in the morning
Along the way, the fragrant aroma of grilled sweet potatoes and grilled corn, and the fatty and crispy coconut pancakes made everyone want to stop. Amidst the majestic nature, these rustic dishes not only filled the stomach but also warmed the heart.
Street food along the way
Vang Vieng for me is a strange symphony between wild nature and vibrant life. A day here is full of flavors: climbing mountains in the early morning sun, bathing in the cool blue lake, or sipping grilled sweet potatoes under the sunset become the most memorable things. If I have the chance to come back, I still want a day like that, simple but complete.
Currently, direct flights from Vietnam to Laos are extremely convenient with Vietjet and Vietnam Airlines, and the high-speed railway system running along Northern Laos will be a great plus for everyone's promising journey to explore Laos.
