So next week we are driving from Phuket to Vientianne (which is a great trip - at least last years was ) but this time rather than staying in and around Vientienne for the time that we are there the plan is to drive up to Luang Prabang.

I was wondering if any of you have done that drive? I know that its very cheap to fly between the two but you miss out on the countryside...... It seems looking at maps its about 400km but on a very mountainous road

So next week we are driving from Phuket to Vientianne ...

I did it quite a few times, just until Nong Khai, that is. Took me 2 days, one to Bangkok, next day up to Nong Khai, which is about 30 kms from Vientiane. Easy trip, no sweat, just watch for BiB in Isaan, they are thirsty and got not enough money to spend on drinks...

So next week we are driving from Phuket to Vientianne (which is a great trip - at least last years was ) but this time rather than staying in and around Vientienne for the time that we are there the plan is to drive up to Luang Prabang.

I was wondering if any of you have done that drive? I know that its very cheap to fly between the two but you miss out on the countryside...... It seems looking at maps its about 400km but on a very mountainous road

Yes I've done that drive many times, although not since early last year. IT is certainly a beautiful drive, and worth doing. But don't do it with a little car such as my Honda Jazz. The road from time to time gets a bit rough, I did it in a 4x4 pickup, no problems. Don't really need a pick up, just something solid that can cope with some big holes. It is very winding and sometimes steep. take your time, leave VT around 8 or before, give yourself plenty of time to get to LP before night time.

guess we will be going to Luang Prabang by road then

sounds like a great idea - what documents, insurance etc do I need to get in and out of Laos??

do a search in the motoring forum. Been covered there lots.

Essentially, a car passport from the deparment of land transport, and the blue ownership book of the car (you must be the owner or have written permission from the owner to take the car out of the country.)