I'd wanted to visit Laos for years and I was delighted to find that it didn't disappoint. I loved the landscape, the Mekong River, the elephants.  I loved the many enchanting Buddhist temples and their colourful festivals, which involved the whole community. And I really enjoyed meeting Laotian people, who I found to be friendly, humorous and relaxed. Satri House in Luang Prabang is one of the most beautiful places I've ever stayed and Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most beautiful collection of buildings I've ever seen.