my annual blockbuster holiday saw me flying off to the neighbouring country of Thailand. The land of a thousand smiles was warm in inviting me, and i've not felt such great for a long time. Days seem to whizz past and there was no boring moments. I reckon I've spent around $1200 with all the shopping and makan and massages. With so many activities going on, this trip, however, will truly be known as the Great Thailand Makan Trip!!
First on my plan when i reach bangkok was to tailor some shirts and a pair of trousers. Then it's makan and makan and makan!!! Time jus flew and then it's time for my domestic flight to Chiang Mai!
Chiang Mai, the 2nd largest city in Thailand, is a pleasant place. The December cool weather made the stay even more accomodating. My room with Holiday Inn was upgraded (I supposed due to the recent riots, the holiday must be quite empty) and I've got a pleasant view of the city outskirt.
Staying in Chiang Mai for 4 nights, I've been to a flea market every evening! It was just plain walking down the streets of crowded people (just doesnt feel recession at all). The cummulative effects of these 4 walks? Countless bottles of deliciously refreshing mandrain orange juices, 1 t-shirt, 2 bags, and lotsa road side local delicacies!! And oh yea, I managed to chomp down a couple of bugs in one of the nite markets. hehe.. and they dont taste as disgusting as they look!
This is truely a relaxing and free and easy trip in Chiang Mai. Joining 2 day trips to Doi Ithanon and Chiang Dao Mountains were basically the main highlights of my Chiang Mai stop. Di Ithanon is Thailand's highest peak, over 2500m high. We were lucky enuff to have clear blue skies when we arrive there, but nonetheless, it was still brrr brrr cold!!! Due to the cool temperature, the flora there were jus amazing. the lush greens and waterfalls made the entire nature reserve look like a post card picture!
Chiang Dao caves are limestone caves where we get to see the various formations. nothing much except the surprisingly hot temperature!! It was just sweaty, slippery and humid in the cave. Not exactly pleasing walk.. A visit to the 5 minority tribes followed where the locals would rushed forward to sell their crafts.
Returning to Bangkok, the weather seemed to cool down somewhat. The count down party preparations can be seen everywhere in the city. Being lazy, i was back in the room by 11pm... However, i did not miss out any sparks of the new year... at the stroke of midnight, fireworks began spilling the dark skies with dazzling colors from the view and comfort of my room!! what a way to enjoy the spectacular view!!
Time truly whizzed by extremely fast for this trip.. so relaxed and so in control.... the 9 days of fun will definitely etch a wonderful memory for me. Chiang Mai is definitely worth revisiting... anyone interested? :P
Photos can be viewed at www.deroldee.shutterfly.com
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