Today we biked through the eastern outskirts of the city and the countryside, catching glimpses of local life. Tough Vietnamese guys getting ready for a swim in West Lake, barges cruising the Duong River, a colourful temple festival on an otherwise gloomy day and a simple yet delicious bun cha meal are just a few examples of today's fun photo opportunities.

We spent the weekend with friends in Hòa Bình, a rural province near Hanoi. Good times were had by all. Some impressions...

The historic center of Vientiane is teeming with Wats, Buddhist monasteries where monks practice their faith and novices study the teachings of the Buddha. These places are quiet and welcoming oases in an otherwise already quiet and welcoming town, nestled cosily on the muddy banks of the mighty Mekong river. During my most recent trip to Vientiane I was lucky enough to find my hotel being located amidst a few Wats so taking a quick peek inside was easy as 1, 2, 3.