Bolivan Plateau

After the most relaxing couple of days on the islands, we had to chase a little adventure again...by moto in southern Laos. We made our way up to the Bolivan Plateau to explore its ethnic villages, waterfalls, and coffee plantations. We cruised through lush mountains with thin clouds clinging to the hillsides and interrupting the sea of green. We saw some of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen in my life....coming in every shape and size, each somehow outdoing the last (good thing we didn't do the circuit in the reverse direction!) Our most exciting waterfall however required two local guides that flagged us down as we drove through their village. These two fellows, no more than ten years old, spoke no english...other than 'waterfall'. We started down a slick muddy footpath that soon led to rock hopping and scrambling. The boys hopped along like gazelles moving nimbly amongst the rocks as Tim and I awkwardly negotiated the route, ashamed of just how clumsy we were. Th setting was absolutely magical, with no one around except for our two attentive guides who gave us plenty of space but always kept a watchful eye on our progress. Once we got as close as was 'safely' possible, we marveled at the sleek sexy waterfall tumbling over a massive wall...until the first raindrops fell. The same terrain that I had deemed quite slippery on the way in became incredibly treacherous on the return, it was impossible to get any traction as if the rocks were covered with a layer of oil. We slipped and slid, narrowly avoiding potentially serious injuries while the barefoot boys gracefully cruised over the rocks with such familiarity and confidence. I was so impressed by these two young guys, so composed and attentive, who lead us quite safely on a wonderful adventure without exchanging a word with us. After our tumbles, my laughter or smile seemed to reassure them that we were fine and we would saunter on. It was so beautiful arriving in a place that is still largely untouched and lead to such raw adventure.