Phongsali province
The northernmost province of Laos, Phongsali surprises the few visitors it receives as it is neither heavily wooded as many expect, nor is the same-named provincial capital packed with colourfully dressed minorities. This is because Phongsali lost much of its tree cover to the Chinese in return for their support of the Pathet Lao, and the minority groups tend to stick to the hills unless there is a major festival taking place.
Driven between China's Yunnan and Vietnam's Lai Chau, the province is a bit of an oddity as far as Laos is concerned, like neighbouring Udomxai province, Phongsali even today demonstrates a heavy Chinese influence, and many have suggested that had it not been for the French, Phongsali would have been part of China long ago.
For the visitor, the main attraction is trekking and the beautiful boat trip from Luang Prabang -- as with many destinations in Laos, have the fun is getting here. For dedicated trekkers, especially those who are have the time and determination to strike into the far north of the province, this can be a very rewarding destination.
