The infamous Golden Triangle of Southeast Asia was at one time known the world over for its opium produce. But as things go, this block of land which straddles the territories of Thailand, Laos, Burma and Viet Nam also happens to be an area where you can witness the unparalleled beauty of nature in the heartlands of Asian tropics. As travel for sightseeing to the Golden Triangle becomes more frequent, the picturesque Donsao Island in the middle of the meandering Mekong River has come to be a favoured tourist haunt; and with good reason.
This pleasant patch of land can be reached by just inching into the Laos side of the Mekong River, when you arrive from Thai territory. As it is a very short distance where you hardly cross the border, Laos’s visas are not really a necessity when you want to check out Donsao Island. In the nearby Thai town of Sop Ruak, you will find many a boat for hire that can drop you off at the island for a small fee. Once at Donsao, you can have a pleasant little taste of Laos without technically getting into the country as you explore the island on foot. At Donsao, there is a traditional market, and also a small post office belonging to the postal service of Laos, and a few other places of interest, so it’s up to you to see the sights of the place and put your feet up enjoying the little delights of the island.
At Donsao Island you will come across many quaint little bamboo huts with a great collection of souvenirs, handicrafts and delicacies of Laos on sale for your adventurous experimentation. If you find exotic foods and drink palatable, try some local Snake Whisky; a fiery local alcohol with real snake, if you think you can stomach it. Of course there is Beer Lao aplenty if you don’t like tasting an ophidian element in your brew. You can pick up a postcards and mementos at the local Laos post office, and get a postmark as well; which would be nice ‘proof’ of getting into Laos when you’re stuck for time, since you’re technically there.
It’s easy to head off to Donsao if you’re staying at any of the Chiang Rai Hotels. Hotels in Chiang Rai offers a truly tropical experience, which you will enjoy for quite a time if you stay at a well known resort in the area such as the Anantara Golden Triangle, Thailand.