Another day, another country. This morning we forced our way onto an already overcrowded minibus and drove the 1.17km across the Friendship Bridge over the mighty Mekong to get to Laos.
Yes, it was that easy.
Getting a visa on arrival at the Laos side was slightly trickier, involving photos, dodgy exchange rates and more bureaucracy than could ever be deemed necessary.
At last, the visas were grudgingly issued and after a quick taxi ride, we arrived in Vientiane, capital city of Laos, although, as capitals go, I'd have to say that it's more lower case.
Coincidentally, today is the National Day of Laos. Commemorating the end of the monarchy and the formation of the People's Democratic Republic of Laos in 1975.
It's a public holiday, not that you'd know it from wandering around.
I've never seen so many glum people in one place (apart from family gatherings. Obviously).
This afternoon we visited two "museums" both of which turned out to be nothing more than suspiciously Thai-style temples.
AND we had to pay to get in......
Determined to celebrate the National Day (even if the People's Democratic Republic of Laos couldn't be bothered), we headed for a bar.
The Tipsy Elephant is a rather lovely rooftop bar, full of fairy lights and people quaffing cocktails (almost certainly not Laos nationals)
The sunset was particularly good, and if you look closely, you may be able to see our last hotel, across the river, in Thailand......
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