Chiangmai & NORTHERN THAILAND

The North of Thailand has a charm all its own. From the busy streets of Chiangmai into the outer hills that surround it - the nature of the Thai people here is even more laid-back, and one of friendliness. Their Sunday market in Chiangmai is a Thai massage, food and craft fest that spans what seems like forever... and it remains packed with people well into the night hours.

I took off on a short trek into the mountains about 2 hrs north of Chiangmai to camp out with the local hill tribe - the Lahu tribe - for an evening surrounded by 360-degrees of pure bliss! The hike up was bit steep at points, and was felt more due to hot weather than the actual incline for most of us. As we arrived into the village on top of this mountain area, some of the local tribe was out planting new seeds in the field. The kids were shy as we first arrived, but once we were settled into our hut (with the most gorgeous panoramic views you could possibly imagine) - they started to come around and we took to playing and giggling together. It made no difference that we couldn't communicate with words. Later in the evening they sang and danced for us -- too, too cute! After relaxing in the early morning sunshine a few of us ventured down to a big waterfall for a swim, before riding elephants, white water rafting and bamboo rafting our way back to the village where we would meet our transport back to Chiangmai.

I had exciting things awaiting me in Chiangmai, as I became very close friends with Gan - a girl I met my 1st night there - as I popped into her friend's tour agency. She & I were enveloped in conversation from that moment forward and I went out to play pool and watch a local band with her later that night -- which meant I would ride with her thru the crazy streets on her moped! An event for me in itself! We had such a blast that we agreed I would stay with her at her flat when I returned from my trek. In addition to this, Gan just opened up her own cooking school 4 months ago, so I had the chance to visit her beautiful space and learn to cook 5 more Thai dishes with her privately... which was such a treat -- and very entertaining for both of us! I kept getting in trouble for singing ;) ... We enjoyed visiting for the rest of the night (basically talked ourselves to sleep!) and the following morning we went around town together to take care of a few of my errands, as well as enjoy some breakfast, a walk in the park, and a visit by some of her family's place. It was hard to say goodbye -- but we "pinky-swore" it will be SEE YOU SOON!