I have been in Savannaketh 4 months ago. It is still the same, very easy to cross the bridge, no crowds at all, 50 baht for the bus to cross the bridge, 30 US$ for the Lao visa on arrival. Had a very nice meal on one of those floating restaurants on the mekong just opposite Mukdahan, nice vieuw. Price of the dinner for 6 persons and a lot of Beer Lao, 120.000 Kip !!!! I love the place, going back next week for make a new visa at the Thai consulate at Savannaketh.