Bangkok / Chiang Mai

An early morning swim, followed by Breakfast, another swim, opening of presents and cards I have carried the entire trip; which may I add made my birthday, defo worth the weight! And then a transfer to the airport for a hassle free flight I arrived in Chiang Mai. I was collected by a strange little man who kept telling me that it was "pissing down" all the time and that I looked "cream crackered". Cheers.

The reality of leaving my group really hit me today. The people I have spent the last 17 or so days with have made my trip so incredibly memorable. The group made it for me, and made every moment more positive, fun and giggly! I just want to thank you all for all the help, support and piss taking - guys.... Isaac and Kat, Nancy and Michael, Donna, Thomas and Gerlind, Mark and Marielle, Benita and Luke, Ben and Maris and last but not least, Rachael. And of course our great tour guides Bon and Bouna. .... I'm going to miss you all dearly.

Chiang Mai is a little more humid than Bangkok, what with being further North. My birthday was a bit of a nothing day consisting of coffee, curry, planning and taking to the family. Skype technology has reached the hilly part of the country which was a surprise!

After a beer and a chat with some fellow travelers I retired to my cell like dorm room (quite a contrast to the previous night) for a swetty night!


29th July 2011
Up bright and early, muesli, fruit and yogurt before breakfast before embarking on a walking tour around Chiang Mai's old Town. There are one hell of a lot of temples here! Some were really impressive, epically Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang. After Pad Tai and a sprite for lunch I ventured to the air conditioned Chiang Mai City Arts and Cultural Center before coming to the internet cafe!

I have to add that I have never in my life seen mosquetos as big as the ones here. And their bites are consistant... the size of 2p pieces man! Cannay believe it... wish I didn't taste so dam good!! :p I dread to think what theyre going to be like in the jungle.....!!

I am off to catch a bus to Chiang Rai shortly. Going to get to the station early to ensure I can get on the bus! Got booked a 2 day trek with a company called Natural Focus - looks incredible so pretty excited!