The small riverside town of Chiang Khong is bet known as the border crossing point for those on their way to Laos, which sits on the opposite side of the Mekong River.It's always bemusing for us to see people rushing like there's nothing but laos to see - but then again that's pretty much how it's sold by agents in Chiang Mai, and how how certain guidebooks see things, which is a real shame - as we see so many tourist walk straight past, head in a guidebook, that's been out of date for around 3 years already, they really do seem to miss the whole point of traveling.
Anyway, unless it's urgent that you cross to Laos - why follow the crowd? The town is small, sleepy, and surrounded by great countryside and traditional villages - some people end up stopping off for months, while others never even make the crossing. maybe it's worth the time to stop off and see...
Our guesthouse is situated between the older, and the more "touristy" end of town, so you get a feel for real Thai life, but western facilities are on hand. We have a large and very peaceful garden, which is ideal for relaxing. Walk out of the restaurant and you're on the main through-road, cross that and within a few meters your strolling along the banks of the Mekong.To get here you are best to take a tuk-tuk from the bus stop (about 1,5km away and 40tb per person, but remember that they will often try and sell your custom to the highest bidder - or guesthouse paying them the most). From here to the border crossing is about the same distance again.
We also offer mini bus tickets to Chiang Mai, and both slow and speedboat tickets to Luang Prabang, and we can even take your laos visa pictures for you.