Having completed my first land border crossing, and being charged $3 more in bribes than we were told we should have, we arrived at the boat to Don Det just as the sun was setting. I could not have asked for a better introduction to Laos, heading down the Mekong River, surrounded by small islands whilst the sun set in the distance. Small islands we passed were turned into the most amazing silhouettes against the orange back drop.

I was however, a little disappointed once I actually set foot on the island and realised how few people were about. After a few days peace in Siem Reap I felt ready for company and was worried there was now none to be found. I managed to find accommodation with a view of the river, and ended my evening with a quiet beer in a bar playing The Hangover film.

View from my bedroom door

The following morning I woke with the plan of a boat trip, thinking this would be a good way to meet new people. I was in luck, while in the tourist office a group walked in looking for a boat trip during the afternoon and I was invited along. We arranged a boat ride, followed by a BBQ on a beach and then returning to Don Det by tubing (lying in a big rubber ring) back down the river. We had the added novelty of our boat pulling into a river version of a petrol station halfway through our journey. The timing of the day was perfect and we floated back down the Mekong as the sun was setting, beer in hand.

Don Det is connected to another island (Don Khon) via a bridge, and I decided to make a trip over on my second full day for a little exploring. I hired a bicycle and headed down the island road, which ran parallel to the river. My main aim was to reach what was known as the ‘Small Waterfall’, which turned out not to be so small. As far as I could see to my right, rocks spreading in every direction creating a never ending cascade of water, many small falls all converging together eventually flowing to a river below. To the left, the river tailed off into the distance, leading your eyes to distant mountains.

I had originally planned to leave after two days on the island, but was convinced into staying due to a beach party happening the following day. This involved being taken on a boat to a small strip of sand just across the river, being provided with a speaker, and a few drinks. We had some great innovative ideas throughout the afternoon to keep us amused, such as flip flop frisby, or as I liked to call it, ‘Flisby’. The boat took us back to the main island just in time to get a great view of the sun setting over the Mekong.

The company and drinks carried on throughout the evening, my night ending sat outside somebody’s bungalow, hammocks hanging alongside me, listening to three guys singing along with a guitar.

I was thrilled, what had begun with a worrying start turned into yet another amazing island experience. I enjoyed three amazing sun sets in as many days, and once again met such amazing and interesting people. A great start to my Laos adventures.