What is the best way to do this--once we are through Lao immigration? Four of us in the family... (Oh a previous trip, I remember being accosted by touts, other freelancers, and high prices.)

Bus from border to border then Tuk tuk into town.

Moving to Isaan Forum. Leaving link in CM Forum.

Taxi or Tuk Tuk into town. From recent reports the cost should be 200 to 300 baht.

There are taxis at the Laos side of the border, they are generally new cars and will charge 300 baht to hotels in the downtown area. Get a business card from the driver when he drops you off and you can call them to get the same, 300 baht rate back to the bridge on your return, they usually ask for 400 baht for the return journey if you just approach a cab in the street. For a larger party there are a number of mini-van taxis available, I am not sure if these are 'official' but I have used them on occasion without problems.

There are cheaper ways to get from the bridge to downtown, but I think the rate of 300 baht is reasonable for a 35 -40 minute journey. Hope this is of use to you.

THANK YOU VERY MUCH--those of you who took the time and trouble to reply. That information is so helpful!

And to follow up...

All went according to plan: very comfortable, shared van from Udon airport to the border crossing at Nongkhai, then the taxi from Lao immigration/customs to downtown hotel.

Now, how about the reverse process? We have been advised to take a taxi to the border, then look for van drivers standing around on the Thai side who will whisk us to the Udon airport for about Bt.900. Any truth to this? We have a five o'clock plane to catch out of Udon which is sold out--and which we cannot miss.

Many thanks in advance for any advice on the return.