Next Stop: Laos

As the title indicates, I’m headed for Laos in a couple days. I’m really excited to visit what I hear is an absolutely beautiful and still relatively untouched part of the world. Laos only opened its borders to tourists about 15 years ago. I guess there were some exceptions (usually involving money, official business, etc.) but for the most part, the average traveler wasn’t allowed in prior to the early 90s. Several people have told me, “visit as soon as you can before the tourism industry explodes and spoils Laos’ natural beauty.” I might already be a little late, but I’m glad to be visiting at all.

My plans after Laos are still somewhat up in the air. I tend to change my mind about where I’m going on a daily basis, so there isn’t much point divulging my tentative plans right now, as they’re likely to change anyway. That being said, some of you back home are probably wondering when I’m returning to the U.S. of A. since I continually throw out wishy washy dates (or just try to dodge the question completely). Thanks to a very flexible plane ticket and a father who’s willing to call United every other week to change my departure date, I’ve been able to avoid having to make any real, concrete plans. I can say that, as of now (assuming I don’t go totally broke in the meantime) I plan to board a Chicago-bound plane in mid-June. Now don’t go marking your calendars in dark pen or anything. Probably best to stick with light pencil, or better yet, chalk. When things are finally set in place, I’ll be sure to let you know it’s safe to whip out that Sharpie.