flights from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang

Hi All,
I'm in Chiang Mai at the moment and trying to avoid the two day trip on the Meekong. Apparently the other operater has just shut down that does it in a day. I'm trying to see if I can get a flight now (short notice ... today is the 18th and I'd like to fly on the 21st) the only option I am seeing is with Laos Airways but I cant book through their site for some reason. Anyone got any suggestions of alternative routes or airlines or if I can just turn up at the airport on the day and chance I can get a ticket.

Thanks for your help
fonnsis

Go to the Chiang Mai airport & Laos Airways or find a travel agent in town. Don't complicate the issue...

I checked for you on Kayak and Expdia, all of the flights go thru Bangkok and are $400. Thus, you should definately do as #1 said.

I bought the ticket at their office in Chiang Mai.

2/107 Rajchapuak, Huaykew Road
Nakornping condo
Amper muang Chaiangmai 50300
Tel : ( 66-53 ) 223 401
Fax : ( 66-53 ) 223 400
E-mail: qvcnx@loxinfo.co.th

Huaykay road is located northwest of the moat, direction to Doi Sutep.

Don't rely on their website for bookings - do it with a travel agent or better yet at the airline office as Compadre says. Laos Airlines is the only way to fly direct CNX-LPQ.

take the two day boat. it is amazing and you meet some nice people and the scenery is amazing. the boat ride is slow, but much nicer than flying. Their is nothing new in taking a flight.

Agree with #1 Lao Falang - since you are already in C'Mai, why waste time and post this on the TT ?? Go to one of the many travel agents - or to Lao Airlines. You should be able to find their address in C'Mai !!!

Just Bob, why do you say not to rely on Lao Airlines website for booking flights? I know their online system / e-tickets are still new and untested, and I've posted asking about the experience of those who chanced it, but no replies.

I want to book a flight from Chiang Mai to Luang Prabang on December 20 or 21st, and for simplicity's sake online seems the way to go. But if this doesn't work, can anyone give me the name of an agent from whom I can book? I'll be in Chiang Mai on December 16, but I'd ideally like to book my ticket before I leave Canada since I'll be flying in high season.

fonnsis, I've been told that the Lao Airlines website only 'works' with Internet Explorer, so if you're using a different browser you may want to give IE a try.

I booked a flight with some travel agent in Chiang Mai the day before.

<blockquote>Quote
<hr>e-tickets are still new and untested<hr></blockquote>
Yep What's your point?

there are loads of travle agents in Chiang Mai that'll book you this flight, it easy. I'd hurry up too - it's that close to Christmas they'll book up fast. Thai Airways used to do it as well direct, but they axed this route. You'd probably be OK with average luck to book one on the 16th as soon as you arrive in CM for four or five days later, especially if you are only looking for the one seat.

#7 I said that because since their online e-ticketing system first appeared on the website, I have checked it and seen it work one day and not the next, so I'm not yet confident they have the bugs worked out. It will be a bonus for many travelers when it becomes reliable.