Dear Ms. Ha,

 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of the arrangements for my trip to Laos.    Everything went so smoothly.  My guides and drivers were fantastic—I learned so much from them.  There was a good balance of walking, bicycling, boating, and driving, with an interesting variety of temples, markets, ruins, artesans, and nature, and of cities and villages (I love the rural experiences, since that is my own background).  The Laotians are a wonderful people—friendly and family-oriented.  The family in the Ban Ou household where I stayed was incredibly kind and accommodating.   A piece of my heart will remain always  with the people of  Laos.

 

The most striking experience, making the greatest impression upon me, was the visit to MAG in Phonsavan.  Opportunities to volunteer or contribute to this important work could be given greater emphasis here.  I will continue to follow MAG’s progress closely.

 

My only complaint about this trip is that I did not stay long enough!    Several more days in the Plain of Jars . . . .  a week in the villages of the far north . . . . . J

 

Thank you again for all of your wonderful attention to detail.  We are planning to retire at the end of this year—and expect that more travel is in our future.  If we return to southeast Asia, you can be sure we will contact you.

 

Best wishes for the New Year,

Your friend in North Dakota

Diana Skroch (and Joe Stickler)

 

1. Joe’s department was able to move into the new building over Christmas so the time apart was not wasted.