Laos forum

Hello Travelers,
I will be heading from VTE to Pakse in about a week and wanted some recent/updated info about the buses (vs. flying?). I've noticed that most of the posts on this topic are at least 2 years old, so I'm wanting to know if things have changed at all in the last 2-5 years. What I gather from reading these is that the VIP buses may be more comfortable than the "sleeper" buses, as one doesn't need to share a bed (I'm traveling alone) and the seats recline nicely. Can anyone comment on this? I'd also like to know: 1) does anyone recommend a particular bus line? 2) (conversely) Are there bus lines I should definitely avoid? 3) Are the roads relatively safe? and 4) Do you know the cost of this trip?
I've looked into flying and could make the trip for US $134; however, I'm trying to keep costs down and would also not mind seeing more of the Laos countryside. Would you recommend the bus over flying?
Thanks for any info you might have for me!!