if no-one has the answer I'll check it out myself next time I visit fam and I'm on my bike. Google says only 1h44 from Phayao which would be great for me.
$200 in HCMC, but visa free entry to Vietnam. Ultimately similar in price but seems to me HCMC a nicer place overall to visit. Just had a very enjoyable three day trip here; cool city with excellent seafood. Consulate office very quiet with fast and easy process