Day 6

After a quick breakfast we went to visit the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) where we met with officials who gave a presentation of the organisation. I was surprised at how much they valued our opinions and ideas. We offered several ideas and business concepts that they could adopt to increase their program awareness. I personally feel this had a significant impact on the development of this group and that we have contributed to their cause.

After proceeding to the Khmu Village for a delicious traditional Lao lunch we visited a primary school. Even though they were on holidays the teachers and students came to the school dressed in their uniforms just to spend the morning with us. We had the children doing activities that specifically were aimed at promoting wildlife conservation in Laos. I actually really enjoyed interacting with the kids and showing them a fun way to learn through song and dance. I guess it goes to show that you do not have to necessarily speak the same language to portray your message to an audience or even engage with them. This today was purely achieved through hand signals/actions and body language. The kids had a ball and it was great to see them enjoying themselves. We proceeded to hand our donations to this school and awarded the highest achieving students with a stationary pack for their hard work. It was obvious just how much this meant to them and I hope it has encourages them to want to further pursue their education and for other students to strive for this also.

The most amazing experience was the ride on the boats upstream to the National Protected Area. After reaching a high point of the stream we stopped for a “picnic” arranged by the cooks and boat drivers. We then headed back downstream on the boats (without the motors this time) where we began our night safari looking for native wildlife. Although we saw hardly any wildlife besides a few deer the sound of flowing water, crickets and view of the fireflies flying around in the darkness was an amazing experience and one which I will never forget.

We came back to the jungle huts to a camp fire before heading to bed. For many of us, the boat rides and night safari were a big risk as there was a good chance of tipping over (especially against the strong current). However, in saying this, everybody gave it a go and as far as I know there were no regrets and everyone had a great time. What an amazing experience, keep the adventures coming!