Huay Xai

About

The capital of the Bokeo province, the quiet city of Huay Xai lies just across the river from the Thai border, making it the first place in Laos many travellers experience. While many come explicitly for the famed Gibbon Experience, this laid-back town is a great place to get adjusted to the Lao attitude. While you can head up to Fort Carnot, the best-preserved colonial military building in the country, for views of the surrounding area, the main activity in Huay Xai is simply living like a local. At the Daauw Village in the center of town, you can tuck into a traditional meal at the restaurant, or join a workshop to learn more about Lao culture, or even volunteer to help teach English for the afternoon - regardless of your choice of activity, you’ll be helping the Lao People of the Mountains. Or you can head to one of the riverside restaurants or bars, and just watch the water flow.