Phongsaly, also written “Phongsali,” is the name of a province as well as a village in northern Laos. The province is located between China and Vietnam. Local culture thus received many various influences from different countries of Southeast Asia. Phongsaly village backs onto Phu Pha Mountain, whose summit rises 1625 meters above sea level. Nam Ou River runs down the valley. Providing sumptuous panoramas, it is a great venue to go hiking and riding bicycles. Don’t forget to give the local tea a go; it is served pressed in a bamboo envelop, and has a smoky taste.