Lost on Earth

I arrived in Luang Prabang last night after two days of the most horrible and uncomfortable travel I have had in Asia. The slow boat on the Mekong river is charming for a few hours on the firs day, but the novelty wears off quickly. The presence of three Israeli soldiers who consistently harassed every female on the boat and treated the Laos people like serfs didn't help, nor did the accomodations in Pak Beng - never stay at the Bonmee Guest House in Pak Beng. The overpriced rooms are moldy, infested with rats, things were stolen, and the staff is sleazy.