27th APRIL 2005 - CHIANG MAI CONTINUED Woke up late and a little hung over to say the least! Had to quickly get ready for our elephant trip. We drove out to the hills to be greeted by about 30 elephants, all washing in the river. Our ride for the day was an elephant called Keown. He seemed a lot quicker than the other elephants but kept stopping for snacks, not unlike us this adventure so far. Sig even got the chance to ride on Keowns head. I'd like to say he was a pro but he looked a little nervous, I don't blame him! We then went on to see the Lisu Hill tribe. The scenary was fantastic and the children looked so happy. They had a very simple way of living. We then took the buffalo drawn cart back to the elephant camp for lunch. We finished an amazing day with a river raft ride down the Ping river. It was great and the countryside so amazing. But very hot ande now suffering from a sunburnt back. All worthwhile though. 28th APRIL 2005 - CHIANG MAI CONTINUED Went to see a traditional thai show with dancing this evening. It was great and food was included. There was so much to eat. We couldn't eat it all! I think our stomachs are shrinking!! (hopefully) 29th APRIL 2005 - CHIANG MAI CONTINUED Just checked out of eggy guest house and had lunch in our local drunken haunt the CM saloon. Said our goodbyes to our friends and have taken email addresses so we can keep in touch with them. Train leaves for Bangkok at 16.45. We have the luxury of the Mandarin hotel to look forward to tomorrow but for tonight its a night on the train. Planning to go to Ko Tao in the next few days for a diving course. Bring on the sharks!!! Sig says "Chicks dig scars". Hope you are all ok. Please keep the messages coming. We really do appreciate all the emails and messages that you have sent. Thinking of you all. Lots of love V & S xxxxxx