Took the sleeper train up to Chiang Mai, top bunk! 18:10pm - 8:30am. Had the best sleep since starting travelling. Stayed in Chiang Mai for two nights. On the first day we explored the town and pretty much covered it all by foot. We then went up Doi suthep mountain with D&D to explore the big temple that looks down over the city. The views were impressive. From here we went for street food at the Sunday night market and enjoyed all the hustle and bustle of Chiang Mai's markets at night.
The following day we went to visit the elephants in the jungle. This was a major highlight for us, especially as we were keen to see them in their natural environment and not ride them like so many tourists do. We played with them and fed them and washed them in the river. Most of the elephants that come to the animal sanctuary have previously been ill treated, the sanctuary focuses on looking after the elephants and keeping them happy. There was a 10 month old baby elephant and he was a wee rascal, throwing people's shoes about, it was adorable! One of the older female elephants was a year pregnant and you could see the baby moving inside her even though she wouldn't give birth for another year.

We enjoyed mixing with the locals living up in the hills where they worked in paddy fields and fished and washed in the local river. They cooked for us and even let us taste their home made whiskey - it was strong. One of the men was sticky tadpoles to his face for the banter!

The following day to went on a Thai Cooking course. We were taken to a local market and shown which what ingredients we needed for our dishes! We made Spring rolls, Pad Thai, curry paste, Green Thai curry,Noodle soup, and a banana and milk desert. Then ate these together with the rest of the group. We shared the course with another 7 people, German, Danish and Thai.

Chiang Mai has been great. Definitely the most fun we have had so far. Next stop Chiang Rai.