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Vang Vieng vs Muang Ngoi

  • Romily

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    I have 11 days in Lao in December, flying into Luang Prabang. First I was planning to go down to Vientienne via Vang Vieng, and then continue on to Bangkok. But after having heard so much bad about Vang Vieng I was looking at others options, and am now considering a combination of Luang Prabang / Muang Ngoi, as it sounds so much nicer than Vang Vieng.

    What is your take on this? And is there anything else in the north that I could fit into my tight schedule that you consider to be worthwhile? I am now thinking of flying back to Bkk from LP.

    Just some background info: I'm in my mid thirties, female and traveling alone - have been traveling extensively in asia for many years but it's my first time in Lao.

    Thanks for your input!

    #1 Posted: 20/10/2008 - 20:32


  • aleaster

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    Hi

    I am about to leave for Laos and had the same thought as you about Vang Vieng. I was wondering what you wound up doing? I am also a solo female traveller. I have travelled extensively through India along and am interested in how your trip through Laos went.

    Thanks.

    #2 Posted: 15/1/2009 - 10:17

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  • jamesspigne-
    si

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    AVOID VANG VIENG AT ALL COSTS. ONLY COMPLETE LOSERS HANG THERE.

    #3 Posted: 25/1/2009 - 22:30

  • exacto

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    i have to admit that the topless women hanging out by the river that james mentioned in another thread doesn't offend me the way it does james. ;-) however, i agree too that given the local customs and sensibilities, it is probably inappropriate.

    either way, i'd like to encourage james to avoid using all caps. it makes it seem like you are shouting james. thanks. cheers.

    #4 Posted: 25/1/2009 - 23:31

  • laos_info

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    I think Vang Vieng is still well worth a visit. The town itself is pretty much as described but the location is stunning. A quiet riverside bungalow and some day trips out to explore the surrounding countryside make it worth while in my opinion.

    #5 Posted: 27/1/2009 - 13:27

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  • biene

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    Hi Romily!

    I must say that Vang Vieng is a real tourist place and it is quite different from the rest of Laos. Maybe the surrounding is nice, but the town is not worth to visit. I preferred Muang Ngoi...it is a small quiet place near the river without electricity and simple bungalows. Even though this is also a touristy place you can still feel the laotian lifestyle.

    #6 Posted: 3/2/2009 - 18:39

  • austral31

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    Hi Romily,

    I think Vang Vieng could be worth a visit just to see the scenery but I haven't been to Muang Ngoi. VV cops a lot of flak mainly because there are so many tourists who do not respect the local customs and I completely understand this but the bars on the island are quite peaceful during the afternoon and the scenery is stunning

    #7 Posted: 9/2/2009 - 17:02

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