When the distance required is low, the breaks become longer, and side-trips are included. Cycling through the undulating landscape, surrounded by rocky peaks, we detoured for a swim in a cool, deep pool. In the end, we only just made it before sunset to the distinctly ‘border-town’ Lak Sao.
Entering the water
The road was lovely and peaceful, but climbing in the roasting sun was a very sweaty affair. This made the promise of a cool break at the cool spring irresistible. It turned out to be irresistible for the hoard of western motorbike riders too, so we had some company.
Road to springs
Kids
The beautiful plains
arctic-cycler.com 
Hi matthew.
Just wanted to say how much I have been enjoying your blog. Especially recently. The photos have been gorgeous. And getting some insight into what it is actually like to do this trip has been great. I have looked forward to opening every one. And am preparing for it ending too. It won’t be the same for us readers either.
Hey. Thanks Paul!
There’s still quite a bit of cycling left in the trip. I’m also doing a 3 month detour in Indonesia/Malaysia. Still, it will eventually come to an end..
Looks refreshing – and those kids are adorable!
It was a lovely day.