"Introduction for the post - In 2018, I was up for a challenge! Whilst traveling, I was given the opportunity to become a member of Paper And Planes blog. This travel website and Instagram page was a global network of bloggers documenting their lives through images, written posts and vlogs. Unfortunately the website is no longer active, therefore I have decided to share some of my travel stories here. Laos has definitely been one of my favourite destinations I have visited to date. Give it a read. I hope you feel somehow inspired!"
Have you ever felt the urge to constantly place yourself in uncomfortable situations, not only to know that you will grow in almost every aspect of who you are but also to surprise yourself and be capable of achieving more than you could ever imagine. In the last 10 months, I have motivated myself to live courageously. Courage is not only a synonym of bravery but choosing to do something wholeheartedly, basically feeling afraid but yet choosing to overcome your fears.
Throughout my travels I have spent countless hours in buses, trains and airplanes. The hours spent between destinations have often been the most memorable. I have been tested with the feeling of being cramped and uncomfortable but also encouraged to strike up a conversation with potential new friends who may be just inches away. The beauty about public transport is that there is a rich mosaic of people, cultures and architecture which makes that space at that time, truly incredible. The space is often filled with a buzz of different emotions. Excitement, stress, nervousness and a sense of freedom.
And If there is one thing that I demand while traveling it is to always have the window seat. While I’m amongst the clouds looking down, I not only realize how small my problems are but also the fact that for hours I will have one of the best views in the world. If that doesn’t make you heart pound, I don't know what will.
During 2017 and 2018, i have left my fingerprints in France, Monaco, Italy, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, England, Scotland and Ireland.
Although I have been overwhelmed by the scenery and cultures of what life has offered me. I no doubt believe that the land of Laos has not only taken my breath away but has been highly influential in the way I wish to live. From the moment I stepped off the plane, the city of Luang Prabang captivated me. The never-ending discovery of the Laos landscape inspired me to reach every corner of this hidden gem.
Laos is a land ruled by the Mekong. It is a river known by the locals as the 'Mother of all waters'. Today the country can boast to have some of the earths most beautiful natural wonders. She is a home to many wildlife creatures and has a scenery of unclimbed mountains, clear blue skies, French inspired buildings, brightly-coloured Tuck Tucks and the sincere smiles of the locals.
Laos has no access to the sea, however, it is a land surrounded with water. The mighty Mekong river creates a border line with Thailand and runs south into the neighboring border of Cambodia. The river not only carries sea-life and people but is also the birth of some of natures most breathtaking waterfalls such as Kuang Si Falls and Tad Sae. I highly recommend you add these to your Bucket lists! During my stay in Luang Prabang, I was overwhelmed by the richness of the Lao culture. Majority of the Laotian people are Buddhist believers. In the depths of the mountains there are hidden caves which are used as a place of worship as there are over 8000 Buddha statues. Traditionally the males would become monks where they are given the opportunity to gain an education as well as a religious merit.
All restaurants and pubs in the country have a curfew of 11:30pm. This is because at every sunrise the monks of the community would walk along the streets to receive an offering by the local Buddhist believers. This experience was exceptionally inspiring and humbling. What a perfect way to start a day. This day continued with a great Lao coffee as well as a Yoga session at a very well known tourist hang out, called Utopia.
Another great highlight to my week was volunteering at an English Learning School. Every day travelers have the opportunity to give back to the community by helping eager young individuals gain a better education. You have two hours in the morning and evening with the locals where you can either exchange life stories or read books written by successful students who have gone through the system.
The current organizer for the school not only believes in bettering the lives of the people but also has a personal ideology of leaving a legacy that weighs way more than any materialistic item. I honestly cannot encourage you enough to go and give a little time to individuals who are willing to do something to better themselves. Your heart will leave fuller than ever.
If you are a lover of elephants, spending a few days amongst these beautiful giants will give you a true sense of wildlife appreciation. Laos is known as "the land of a million elephants". However, due to deforestation and ecological problems, this is sadly no longer true. Currently there is less than 300-400 left. During our last few days in Laos, we visited Elephant village, which is a gorgeous sanctuary located in the lush jungle valley. It has been recognized as one of the best elephant sanctuaries in Asia. This village provides a better life for the rescued elephants as they are cared for by a veterinarian and a team of volunteers and specialists. These elephants are free from abusive labour as they only work four hours a day. Their daily routine is to be fetched by their mahout (an elephant trainer, in other words, the elephants best human friend) from the jungle. The visitors then get the chance to wash them in the river as well as ride them without using a chair. This experience was a once in a lifetime. Being in the presence of these calm creatures in the jungle without any internet distractions was a feeling I will always remember.
Over the past 10 months of being surrounded by different people and their cultures, I have not only learnt a lot about others but mostly about my personal capabilities. I have started to notice the small things, the things that go way beyond the normal day to day. The simple questions which make you think. During my time exploring, my cousins and I have been asked questions by fellow travel friends and young children, 'what are our biggest struggles in life?' and 'Where do we see ourselves in 10 years?'. Not only did these questions make us examine a true perception of ourselves, but I could honestly say that we were humbled in comparison to what their struggles are. I believe that what I’ve tasted, smelt, heard and participated in during the last few months, will be nothing less and nothing more than the simple magic of nations coming together.
We are already 3 months into the new year, and I have already been filled with glitter in my veins, full of stories, a mindful of mental pictures and a heart filled with appreciation. To the current travelers, the future travel seekers and the individuals who are in love with life, one day I hope we spontaneously meet and exchange stories. You will find me in a pretty coffee shop somewhere between art and fairy lights. I will await your visit and keep a seat ready…