A Year of Self/World/Life Discovery

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Life in Laos

I disembarked our slowboat along the Mekong River at a quiet fishing village in Laos. I left there with some amazing photographs and an entirely new perception of traditional Laos culture.


Mahouting

Elephants are an integral part of Southeast Asian lifestyle as they provide transportation, labor, and companionship like any other loyal pet. They are amazing creatures and despite their massive size, quite amiable. I rode one through the forest in Laos along the Mekong River. It wasn't some tamed circus ride, but I learned how to properly direct my elephant "Pu Bang" (possible derivative of Pooh Bear?) from a Mahout (trainer). Now I just need to find a backyard big enough to bring one home.....