I realized today, that by bus/car it is only about 6:30h from Na Kae (Nakon Phanom Province) straight to the east to the coast of Vietnam.

 

I'm German, and according to the typical route we would pass the border to Cambodia at Savannakhet (close to Mukdahan), and then go through Cambodia till Lao Báo.

 

Do I need special preparations / visa?

 

My GF is Thai, is a Thai ID enough or does she need a passport.

 

We are talking about an extended weekend or one week trip.

 

Thank you for your advice.

 

Enki

 

P.S. no, flying is not an option ... to many change of vehicle (car or bus or plane) or deterrence like flying via BKK

I dont know why you mention going through Cambodia to get to Vietnam unless you specifically want to go that way. You are nowhere near Cambodia and can go straight through Laos from Savannakhet to the coast of Vietnam. Or you could cross the bridge at Nakhon Phanom for an even quicker route from Thakhek. I know that there are buses from Thakhek bus station direct to Vietnam. I think that I have read on here that visas are now available on arrival at Vietnam but u need to check this and that they are available at your chosen border crossing point.

 

Lol, I simply mixed up Laos with Cambodia, actually I had the map open, so it was only my typing where I mixed it up, thanks for the hint but I can no longer edit the post.