LUANGSAY CRUISE FROM HOUEI XAY Tour Code: LDE-LUA2/DOK Houei Xay - Pakbeng - Luang Prabang    Journey Map The Mekong River is rich in legend linking seven Asian nations from Tibet to the South China Sea. Perhaps the most mythical of Mekong experiences is a slow-boat river journey through Northern Laos, a timeless land still rich in exotic mysteries waiting to be discovered. It is The Luang Say Mekong River Cruise.  TOUR HIGHTLIGHTS    A cruise through remote mountainous stretches of the Mekong River    Visits to river-side hill tribe villages and the magical Tham Thing Caves of a     Thousand Buddhas    A perfect romantic stay at the lodge in the unspoiled wilderness area Day 1: Houei Xay - Pakbeng (L, D) Meet upon arrival at Houei Xay immigration checkpoint and transfer to the boat pier. The LuangSay boat leaves Houei Xay pier at 09.00 AM for a cruise down the Mekong River to Pakbeng. En route, one stop is made to observe rural life along the Mekong and discover minorities.Buffet lunch on board. Arrival in Pakbeng before sunset and check-in at the lodge. This rustic town-village sits on a steep hillside and offers spectacular views over the Mekong River. Dinner and accommodation at the lodge. Day 2: Pakbeng – Luang Prabang (B, L) Breakfast at the lodge. (Optional: walk to Pakbeng market, where people from the surrounding village of minorities exchange their goods). Board the Pak Ou boat at 08.30 AM for the second leg of the cruise towards Luang Prabang, with a short stop to discover a Hmong village. Buffet lunch on board. Continue to Pak Ou village at the mouth of the Nam Ou River, and visit Tam Ting, "Caves of a thousand Buddha's”. Another brief stop is made at a local village, to observe the traditional process of obtaining local rice alcohol. Arrival in Luang Prabang before sunset. Tour ends. INCLUSIVE: Transfer between Lao immigration and boat pier in Houei Xay 2 -day cruises on Luangsay Accommodation at Luangsai Lodge based on twin sharing All entrance fees for sightseeing as indicated in the program Local English speaking guide on board Meals as indicated in program, Service charges and handling fees EXCLUSIVE: International air tickets and airport departure taxes Meals and drinks not mentioned in the program Visa stamping fee, Travel insurance Tips and gratuities, Personal expenses and other services which are not mentioned in the program PRICING: Price per person in USD 2 PAX 3 - 5 Pax Single Supplement Standard 0 0 0.0000 *The above prices are based on the group from 4 - 6pax and valid until Sep, 2008. All prices might be changed subject to your group size and travel period. Some tours have Deluxe Option available. Please contact us for further information. Note: This tour must be booked at least 7days in advance of your travel date Tour can be modified to suit your tastes and budget Minor program changes are sometime necessary, depending on road conditions and weather. All prices inclusive of taxes unless stated otherwise in the Exclusion. Pick ups are available by private vehicle from either the airport or hotels in Chiang Rai, Thailand with transfer to the Thai - Laos border, approximately 1.5 hour drive. Boat schedule:                 • From 01 Nov - 30 Apr and 1 - 31 Oct: Departs every Monday, Thursday & Friday                 • From 01 May - 30 Sep: Departs every Monday & Friday                 • No operation from 01 to 30 June every year for annual maintenance Please note that a Laos visa is required to enter Luang Prabang and other provinces in Laos. We suggest you apply for the Laos visa in your country (if available) or at the Laos consulate in Bangkok before arrival.