The train went so slow, was a stopping service. Our 12 hour journey turned into 17hrs!! I had a lower deck so wasn't too uncomfortable and I also I got enough rest as there wasn't much else to do. Eventually we arrived in Chiang Mai. I shared with another girl and we paid120 Bhat taxi ride for one that should have cost 40 Bhat...starting to learn.

After I checked in I visited the Sunday market for a bit of shopping. Saw more temples. I got picked up for a Thai boxing fight. Met some French people that were with me so quickly learnt "Aller Rouge" or "Aller Bleu" (their shorts were red and blue). Was good fun, but again felt a bit touristy.

I booked a 2 night, 3 day Jungle trek which included Elephant training with a company called Jumbo, which I would not recommend. I met 4 German girls who were on their 2nd day and I was on my first, but they put us together as they didn't have enough people. We did extensive trekking to a home stay on the mountains in a rural village and we helped cooking our dinner with our local guide. The following day we saw lovely waterfalls and walked along the river in the jungle to the place where we were going to start our white water rafting. That was great fun however rapids were no more than level 2.

On my 2nd day I was with people on their 1st day. We did an out ride on the Elephants through the jungle and bathed them. The eveing we played a Dutch game together which the Dutchies suggested, was good fun. On my 3rd day I had done all the activities and they didn't have another group for me so they put me on an Elephant training course for free. Was interesting and enjoyable in the end.

I got back to Julie's Hostel and shared a room with a Dutch guy, Marinus. We did a Thai cooking course together. In true Thai style the cooking class was conducted outside of a Thai lady's home with the eating area inside. She took us to the market, helped us distinguish between the various spices, tofus and veggies. Back at her home we took our places and were ready and steadied to cook. Made 4 dishes, Thai green curry, chilly soup, spring rolls and chicken with cashew dish.

It was really strenious...haha well maybe not, but any excuse for for a massage...really enjoyed it and the cupa tea that followed.

Was really enjoyable time in Chiang Mai. Marinus left on his Jungle trek and I was off to Pai.