On Day 1 here in Vientiane, Laos. Now this place is the most laid-back capital on earth. Picture this: narrow French pastry shops dotting the dimly-lit streets serving baguettes, cheese, and coffee. It’s quite an interesting spectacle seeing a society whose a mix between Thai and French influences. It’s also interesting see the new (modern buildings) and the old (monks begging for food) all in the same day and in the same suburbs.

People are very peaceful and surrendering, warm and welcoming, and speak in voices quieter than pin-drops. We had some good spring roles here, curries, and noodle soup. We’re taking a bus tomorrow to visit some interesting sites.

Highlights of the day:

• Witnessing animists worshiping ancestors
• Getting served by 6-year old waitresses
• Finding 75% of people on motorbikes women
• Seeing French influence on a Thai-like country
• Meeting the most peaceful kind of people on Earth!