Wow, what a story.
I went through my own mini-hell story yesterday on a cramped mini bus for 6 hours 5 of which were through a major range here in Laos with a 2 & 4 year old.
The 2 year old only threw up three times, so I am taking that as a win 🙂
It’s hard not speaking the language in a given country!
Great writing, great story. Travel isn’t always glamorous!