And I almost didn’t go!!
Oh my, Laos was such a surprise package!
Two main places to visit:
1. Luang Prabang - i would totally go again but stay longer next time - spend time enjoying the quiet serenity of life along the Mekong River and do more exploring of the jungle areas near the waterfalls.
2. Vang Vieng - glad i went, the hot air balloon experience (is in my top 5 experiences in SEA), solo buggy adventures off the beaten path, so good...But now i've done it, i'm done.
To me that's smarter travel at 50+ knowing what you love, what's a once in a life time experience - one and done versus what's worth going back for.
Full Laos guide dropping this week - save this post and follow @forfunsake so you don't miss it.
Thinking about Laos? Feel free to ask me anything #laos #travel #womenover50 #solotravel #over50
Traveling to Laos as a solo woman over 50 was an eye-opening experience that I highly recommend. What struck me the most was the country's serene atmosphere and the low tourist density, making it feel like an untouched sanctuary compared to other Southeast Asian destinations. In Luang Prabang, staying in the Old Town area near the Mekong River gifted me peaceful mornings sipping coffee at quaint cafes, while the nearby Kuang Si Waterfalls delivered unforgettable jungle exploration. One of my key travel lessons was the value of pacing yourself. Spending at least four nights in Luang Prabang allowed me to soak in the cultural richness and natural beauty without feeling rushed. This slower travel pace gave me time to meet locals, appreciate the UNESCO heritage town’s charm, and experience the true essence of Lao life. Vang Vieng presented a contrast with its more rustic, backpacker vibe, but this was exactly where adventures like hot air ballooning at sunset and solo buggy rides through Laos' backcountry came alive for me. These once-in-a-lifetime experiences pushed my comfort zone and provided thrilling memories that rank among my top travel moments in Southeast Asia. Financially, Laos surprised me with its excellent value, especially for accommodations in local guesthouses. However, the upscale hotels in Luang Prabang were pricier than expected, so I recommend balancing your stay between cozy local places and occasional splurges. For those considering the journey, I found it easiest to fly into Laos via Hanoi or Bangkok and then plan for about six to eight days to truly appreciate both Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. Booking transportation ahead, like train seats between these locations, is crucial as spots fill quickly. Overall, Laos offers a unique blend of peaceful retreats and exciting adventures suited perfectly for mature solo travelers who want meaningful and memorable experiences. I encourage anyone over 50 thinking about Laos to embrace both the calm and the thrill, plan thoughtfully, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised by this beautiful, welcoming country.
