take mosquito repellant, useful in a number of places

 flashlight is always useful to have, especially in the Pak ou caves, and also in the city

 alcohol-based or waterless soap gel/spray

 there was a bit of a situation at the airport, when the officer who was x-raying the baggage saw the Buddha head we had bought and informed us that we were not allowed to take it out. We, on our part, had read the rule books and were aware that while old/ antique heads or statues could not be exported, there was no issue with new pieces. Anyway, the officer now informed us that no Buddha images could be taken out without the payment of a fee. We do not know how far its true, perhaps we should have called his bluff and left our piece and walked away: but then, this was a prized purchase and now adorns the enclosure right at the front of our abode!!!

 if going during early April, book well in advance, because this is the peak season

 take swimming costumes along: very useful for the Kuangsi waterfalls

 negotiate the Pak Ou caves and waterfall cum tuk-tuk ride with a single boatman, so that bulk discounts may be possible. We paid USD23 for both trips, of which USD3 was for the tuk-tuk, which waits until you finish your time at the falls and brings you back.

 no need to pay top dollar in the Royal Theater for seats upfront. One can see pretty well even at a $6 dollar (mid range) view.

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