LAOS - Cont'd

Typical Lao fare - Kangkong (Morning Glory in Laos and other former Indo-Chinese countries), satay of sorts and fried fish.

Tribal outfits at the Minorities Arts Centre for adults.

And for children, skirts. Weaving is a time-tested skill of Laotians. They produce excellent silk pieces. Unfortunately, the clothing market has been penetrated by imitations from China. So, one has to have skilled eyes to select the right McCoy.

LP is nestled among hills and mountains and two rivers.

A pretty model showing her tribal costume at Le Parasol Blanc where we had dinner. 

And a male model adorning his tribal costume. Altogether 15 outfits were shown.

Monks collecting alms before sunrise by which time, they should be back at their temples. Many groups of monks will appear as there are many temples and monasteries in LP. My friend who became a novice in Thailand said that the monks and novices were allowed one main meal per day. However, because job openings are scarce, many young people choose to be monks so as not to have to compete for jobs.

LP Market is makeshift. After business is done, the stalls pack up. There are many stalls selling lots of stuff for daily and other needs. Strolling in the market is interesting for this reason. At times, even meat of rare and endangered animals like Pangolin or bears can be found. WWF may come to inspect and apprehend sellers but the trade survives. 

Small fish (like Anchovies) are skewered, possibly to be barbecued later. Many varieties are also sold. Although they are freshwater, they don't taste like the fish in China which have may, at times, have a "mud" smell and taste.

Fresh vegetables and roots.

Freshwater crabs nicely wrapped.

Fresh mushrooms.

Barbecued meat - beef or water buffalo?

Feet of water buffaloes with skin attached.

Hmong village shaman.