In order to get into Laos from Thailand, we chose to take the budget route by spending two days chugging along the Mekong river. When we booked the tickets in Thailand, the dealer told us that it was a local boat, so assumed it would be a little rough around the edges. As you can see, the amenities on board were basic, with a few benches in the front, and a hard wood floor in the back. Welcome home!