Mai Chau

“ There’s something ever egotistical in mountain-tops and towers, and all other grand and lofty things”

Herman Melville

The rain had nearly stopped but the sky still had a humid dampness about it the new coach was luxurious as promised and we set off to climb the mountains to Mai Chua the climb was slow at times we were near the Lao border finally we stopped to look back to where we had come so high with limestone rocks/mountains standing out on the flat surrounds . We stoped at a roadside lookout where local market was and you could purchase a dinner live chickens or mountain crabs not that I’d seen them before and snails/slugs plus sticky rice in bamboo. After the photo stop we climbed higher before a lunch break once again so much food. ( sorry forgot to take photo )

Finally we arrived at Avanna Resort it was beautiful in the mountains water flowing just wonderful. The air was clean a little humid but clear. The cabin was luxurious and large you felt like you were the only person in the mountains. You could order a buggy using an App to take you anywhere on the resort. The pool was in the clouds Looking over rice fields wonderful cocktail hour was lovely all the glasses were made from mettle or wood eco friendly, We were all provided with vouchers to use the spa a real treat. The meals showcase the local region with a hint of spice and present beautifully. Most of the staff were from the village below mostly Moung people. The resort was self sufficient with hydro and solar power.

The next day we went down to the local Moung village to explore it was remote and everyone was friendly and happy for us to look at there homes

There was a bamboo forest on the resort it was a climb to get to and paths were slippery but an enjoyable walk there were local deer, bunnies, many chickens and goats