Vang Vieng Haven, Laos

With its peace and quiet, Vang Vieng is an excellent antidote for stressed out urban dwellers. If you're still dithering on a holiday destination, these pictures might help you to come to a decision. During the day I explored the place on my rented bicycle, and when dusk fell a Beer Lao and Laotian fried rice were the  perfect way to round up the day.

Observe farmers at work on their farms.

On one side of the town lie the farms and karst hills. There are caves here for exploration.

The River Nam Song where tubing is carried out.

Skimpily-clad western backpackers sun worshipping. (click the image for an XL view if you're curious but only if you're 18)

Niah National Park, Sarawak

The Great Cave, Niah National Park
The well-maintained boardwalk leads all the way to the caves (1 hour leisurely stroll). Terrain is flat throughout so even Grandma can make it.
Niah cave
Niah cave.
Man collecting fertilisers from the caves.

We hired a private car to take us to the Niah caves (102 km from Miri). This is the best way as public transport is not only time-consuming but also full of hassles.

Though the walkway was shady, it was still very hot and humid. The Swedish guy with us sweated buckets.

Tips: bring a powerful torchlight, at least 2 litres of water, a lunch packet, snacks, poncho, face towel, cap (in case of direct hit by bird poop).

Tomorrow I'll post more pictures of the caves and an Iban village (including village girls bathing in a croc-infested river)