Valentines day in a foreign land

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We couldn't resist having our photo taken in front of one of the elaborate displays in Vientienne, Laos.This was on a Valentine's Eve, and we didn't know how much romance we'd find at our next destination.

Quite a lot of romance, as it turned out! We happened to walk past the 3 Nagas restaurant as we strolled through Luang Prabong( I love saying that name! ) and Jim remembered that this was the restaurant that our guidebook recommended for a splurge, or a place to propose! As it turned out, they had a special Valentine's day dinner, so Jim decided that we really should go for it! That was more money than we have spent on 3 nights accommodations, but I've learned that when Jim's in the mood to splurge, I shouldn't stand in his way...It was even nicer than we imagined, with a table for two set in our own private garden, with tea lights all around and rose petals on the table.

We had our own maître d ,Mr Sen, who catered to our needs, standing by to refresh our wine and bring each course. 

The dinner was beautifully presented( that cone is filled with rice) typical Lao cuisine with a twist. The fish was mekong river fish, and the meat was marinated water buffalo. 

We finished the meal with banana fritters and coconut ice cream, but the best part was still to come...

I didn't know that the experience culminated with the release of two( or more) sky lanterns! I love these more than many things, so I was like a little kid when they brought them out to light! I would have paid any amount to send one of these into the inky sky...

Jim enjoyed it, too.

As he said, " I'm pretty sure this will be the only time we celebrate Valentine's Day in Laos". And it was unforgettable!