Capital of Bokeo province and the northern gateway to Laos, Huay Xai is the most popular entry point to the country from northern Thailand. A big opium shipment centre for the Americans during the war, the town now busies itself moving people rather than narcotics — and what a fine job it does.
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Keep reading to learn more about Huay Xai!
The border is known as the Chiang Khong/Huay Xai crossing and the two towns face each other across the Mekong. Travellers once crossed between the two countries by boat but since 2013, the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge 4 located 10 kilometres from town is the official border; it is no longer possible for foreigners to ferry across. Many people choose to stay overnight in Chiang Khong on the Thai side, but Huay Xai is a good enough spot for a night and makes catching the slow boat a little less stressful. It’s also a good place to ease yourself into Laos, particularly if Pakbeng is to be your next stop.
The slowboat pier. Photo: Cindy Fan
If you’re concerned about missing the slow boat if you sleep in Chiang Khong and cross the border in the morning, don’t worry — as long as you drag yourself out of bed at a reasonable hour, you’ll be fine. The border is open from 06:00 to 22:00, the mandatory shuttle bus across the bridge starts at 07:30 and the slow boat may leave as late ... Travelfish members only (Full text is around 900 words.)
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By
Cindy Fan.
Last updated on 12th October, 2016.
