Laos

The "Plain of Jars" was high on my "bucket list" of things to see in Laos, having read of it some years previously. This is known as "site 1". I understand there are about 85 similar sites in the east of Laos with large (up to 3M high) hollowed stone urns such as these - but because of unexploded munitions, only three sites are open to the public. Even at these, visitors are warned to stay within the marked (cleared) areas. The hollowed stone "jars" date from Iron Age times (500BC-500AD). The original purpose is unknown, though it is generally believed they were burial urns. I rather like the local Lao belief that they were used by an invading army to brew beer - those must have been some parties! More images in the notes. Explored.

Roadside produce stall in the highlands of Laos. This looks better viewed on black. Explored.

This little town was in the central highlands. On the right the mini-bus we travelled in. As can be seen, motor scooters are particularly popular in Laos as a first form of motorised transport. It also seemed that every second shop was selling mobile phones! Second image in note.

This little township has sprung up at a road intersection in central Laos. It felt very much a "frontier" town. As can be seen, the streets remain unsealed and motor scooters are particularly popular. Second image in note. Best viewed large. Explored.

Far be it from me, as a mere male, to make any comment on this sign found in rural Laos. :-) There's a fence there, so HFF and best wishes for the weekend to all. Have you seen the latest ipernity News re the membership survey? Could be the last chance.....

New motorcycles awaiting buyers in a roadside dealership in Phou Khoun, near where I took the earlier shots of the street. Explored.

We stopped in the highlands of Laos to look around this village. It was interesting to see how the dwellings are changing from the traditional to either painted timber or (sometimes) concrete blocks. One to view large. Explored.

It was quite remarkable, far in the Laos highlands, to visit a hilltop restaurant - another image in a note. This was part of the scene from the viewing platform. HFF and best wishes for the weekend, everyone.

Heading down the road from the restaurant (see my previous images) we travelled past these spectacular peaks. Explored.