Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
price, it's important to clarify who is responsible for what: check who pays for the driver's
food and lodging, fuel and repairs, and be sure to ask what happens in case of a major break-
down or accident. If you're looking for a safe driver and English-speaking guide to help you
get the most out of a trip upcountry, consider contacting Bangkok-based Backyard Travel (
backyardtravel.com
), which can put together a bespoke itinerary that suits your preferred
route.
Motorbikes
One of the best ways to explore the countryside is to rent a
motorbike
. This is easiest in
tourist-friendly places like Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Thakhek and Pakse, but
even then you're often limited to smaller bikes, usually 100cc step-throughs such as the
Honda Dream. Rental prices for the day are generally $6-10, depending on the age and con-
dition of the bike. More powerful 125cc
dirt bikes
suitable for cross-country driving are
available in larger cities for around $20 per day.
A licence is not needed, but you'll be asked to leave your passport as a deposit and may
be required to return the bike by dark. If possible, avoid leaving your passport (attempts to
extort money for “damage” are not unheard of) and arrange to leave a cash deposit instead -
$30 or so should do the job. Insurance is not available, so it's a good idea to make sure your
travel insurance covers you for any potential accidents.
Before zooming off, be sure to
check the bike
thoroughly for any scratches and damaged
parts and take it for a test run to make sure the vehicle is running properly. As far as
equip-
ment
goes, a helmet offers essential protection, although few rental places will have one
to offer you; bear in mind it's illegal (never mind dangerous) to ride without a helmet.
Sunglasses
are essential in order to fend off the glare of the tropical sun and keep dust and
bugs out of your eyes. Proper shoes, long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt are all worthwhile
additions to your biking outfit and will provide a thin layer of protection if you take a spill.
Bicycles
Bicycles
are available in most major tourist centres; guesthouses, souvenir shops and a few
tourist-oriented restaurants may keep a small stable of Thai- or Chinese-made bikes to rent
out for around $2-3 per day. In some centres, such as Luang Prabang, Luang Namtha and
Nong Khiaw, it's also possible to hire
mountain bikes
for around $6 a day.
Organized tours
Although less spontaneous and considerably more expensive than independent travel,
organ-
izedtours
are worth looking into if you have limited time or prefer to have someone smooth
over the many logistical difficulties of travelling in Laos. Although the government encour-
ages travellers to visit Laos through an authorized tour company, the tours aren't bogged
down in political rhetoric and guides tend to be easy-going and informative.
