The organic farm, Vang Vieng

The journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng was stunning. We were adamant that the scenery of Bac Ha couldn't be beaten but by this journey gave it a serious run for its money. Laos is 80% rural with a high proportion being mountainous. It's scenary is almost mythical, like something you'd see in Lord Of The Rings.

Unfortunately our destination didn't have a great reputation. Vang Vieng is known as a testosterone fuelled 20 somethings paradise where drunken extreme sports and partys are rife. Following complaints from the locals, the Laos govenrnment closed many riverside bars and the town has since quientened. Amidst this town-sized identity struggle lies a sanctuary - Mr T's Organic Farm. Since 1996 he has established a farm on sustainable and organic principles. Guests can stay in private mud houses or dorms, helping out in the mornings. For the past few days me and Mandeep have been cleaning goat pens, feeding and have had a go milking them. We really like the goats' faces, always carrying a sweet smile. They're such gentle animals - really friendly and non confrontational.

We hadn't planned any activities here, but when we were informed of a nearby youth centre we decided to join in. Sewing club was nice, local Hmong girls showed us how to make some of their tribal patterns and helped us to make wrist bands. We gained an appreciation of how much work goes into a seemingly simple accessory, took us over 3 hours to make one wrist band! To ease our neck strain we joined in on dance club, learning a few traditional Laos moves with some modern classics like gangnam style thrown into the mix.

Situated by a river in the countryside, the organic farm is a great place to unwind. Watch out for the bugs.. I have seen a spider the size of a dinner plate! Didn't get any pictures of it - I didn't want to get anywhere near that beast.

Below: organic farm restaurant by the river