Today we went to the famous Vat Phu temple with Auntie Nancy and Uncle Pat (my aunt and uncle). Yesterday we caught a Touk-Touk into Pakse, and from there drove into Champasak town, where we stayed for a night. From there it was only about a 20 minute drive to Vat Phu.
When we got to the temple grounds we got our entrance ticket and took an electric shuttle up to the actual temple. There were a lot of people setting up tents for the “Vat Phu festival” a big celebration at the temple starts on Saturday. I was glad that the festival wasn’t on while we were at the temple though, because there would be a lot of people. The temple magnificent and we had fun exploring the ruins.
After that, we started the hike up to the top of the mountain that Vat Phu is situated on. It was quite the hike, but definitely worth it for the beautiful view from the top.
After we were finished at Vat Phu, we went to the car that would drive us down to Don Khone, one of the 4,000 islands. After a long drive and 2 ferry rides, we arrived and Don Khone. It is very beautiful here and there is a very nice sense of community on the island. More pictures and information to come!
(Just as a side note to clear up any confusion we went to Vat Phu before we even came down to the islands, the timing is a bit weird since I am writing this as I am on the islands. Sorry!)
*Word of the day: Phu (pronounced: pu), It means mountain in English.
Taya's Laos Blog 
Hi Taya,
Sounds like a great start to a great trip. The Vat Phu temple looks really cool! There’s a lot of history there. You and I are on the same page- it would be much better to be there without the crowds, although it would be nice to see the festival, crowds are not my thing. Do you know what the flower is that you found? It looks very similar to the flower in the bio-pic for your blog. It’s really beautiful.
I can’t wait to hear about your time on the 4000 Islands, there’s nothing like island community. Maybe some pics of dolphins?
All is well here. Winter is winding down…I hope… I really… really hope. The Wondercat says hello!
Have fun with you Aunt and Uncle,
ME
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Sa-baai-di Taya ….. Khwap jai for your amazing post …..The wat is soooo very amazing – those stairs are unbelievable; made me laugh and the flower you found – what a gift !!! ….. Pretty Haan, I imagine ….. The pathway to the ngam Wat is sooo long but so worth it !!! ….. What an experience you are having – so happy for you ….. love & so many hugs, Auntie Tricia ….. Phob kan mai …..
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The temple was amazing!!! It was also very haan – haha. I love how you use the words! Love you, xoxo.
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hehe Missy Taya – I sure do have FUN using the words you have been sharing with us – khwap jai – and, by the way, it sure is nao here, hehe,,,,, love & big hugs, Auntie xoxoxo
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Love you!
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