Day 74 - Oudom Xay to Boten - 8 May 2013

Day 74 - Oudom Xay to Boten - 8 May 2013
Didn't rain overnight, stayed cool, lovely light breeze; woke to roosters crowing the sunrise over mountains. Headed off to border crossing town of Boten, passing racks of noodles drying in sun. “Chain gangs” clearing countryside on steep inclines using hoes and machetes. Novel  method to announce road blockage ahead - branches laid along road.

Stopped at Ban Nambotakay for Phil and Mads to deliver literacy books. Poor wooden school with slats, dirty kids in threadbare clothes. Very shy female teacher, took time to understand we were giving them books as a gift. Kids hid at cameras at first, but showed them pictures of themselves on the viewfinder and gradually thawed, posed, then became animated and boisterous at the visitors. Gratifying experience.

Evidence that Chinese constructed road to border, significantly better construction, joint Chinese and Lao flags and signs re infrastructure projects, Chinese trucks and cemetery. Completed 2139 kms in Laos, and total trip of 9354kms to date! 

As our group had gone in three different directions to complete their Laos experience, we had agreed to meet in Boten at least by the evening if 8 May ready to cross the next morning to meet our China guide Andy - however 5km south of Boten, we three vehicles came to Customs checkpoint. Quick check of either green paper or stamp of carnet and we were suddenly through, but then came to Immigration so went no further. Camped in front of 3 story hotel or shopping centre that was never completed. Bought carton of Chinese beer for $6 – taste test later! Guy and Cheryl arrived at dusk, gave GirlRob a bright striped, long hat made by Lao hilltribe people and face mask. So cool! Jon and Jude turned up next, Jude most unwell, but giving book on Steve Irwin – a beaut birthday, eh? The Robs and Jon went to dinner at "restaurant", but half way through found the chicken had feet in it...