Just a note for information: -
I rode into Laos recently (August 29 through September 7, 2016).
From Vientiane I followed Route 13 taking the "old" route to Luang Prabang and returned on the "new" highway.
After recent torrential rain the damage to the roads in the mountains is very evident. There are innumerable slips and washouts and single-lane stretches. In places the water from blocked water tables flows down the road turning it into a creek bed. The new highway has slumped badly in places and one sign informs that the road is "Dangerous" for the next 9 km.
All very challenging on a road-going FZ150i (I know, I know: I need a bigger bike. Maybe next year!)
So, the journey needs some extra time and care and the roads, I imagine, will be under repair for some time to come.
Have fun,
Vic
I rode into Laos recently (August 29 through September 7, 2016).
From Vientiane I followed Route 13 taking the "old" route to Luang Prabang and returned on the "new" highway.
After recent torrential rain the damage to the roads in the mountains is very evident. There are innumerable slips and washouts and single-lane stretches. In places the water from blocked water tables flows down the road turning it into a creek bed. The new highway has slumped badly in places and one sign informs that the road is "Dangerous" for the next 9 km.
All very challenging on a road-going FZ150i (I know, I know: I need a bigger bike. Maybe next year!)
So, the journey needs some extra time and care and the roads, I imagine, will be under repair for some time to come.
Have fun,
Vic