Thailand

So we've made it to Thailand and despite experiencing a bit of culture shock and a mutual desire to return to China (didn't see that one coming) we seem to have settled into the more relaxed pace of this country. One aspect that has really thrown us for a loop is the sheer size of the tourism industry in this country. Yes, we have arrived in the middle of the peak season, but we were not expecting to be greeted by this many tourists and tourist-centric activities, restaurants and hotels. In China we had to fend for ourselves, and here its almost as if everything is available at our fingertips. Neither is worse or better, its just different.

Currently we are in the small Northern town of Pai. Having spent our first five days in the bustling metropolis of Chiang Mai, this little riverfront town with its strong SF hippy/gypsy chic-vibe has provided us with the perfect locale to just sit back and do nothing for a few days. Aside from relaxing, we trekked for two-days to visit local hill-tribe communities (blog posting on the experience to follow), and tomorrow we take a ride with the Elephants!

In a few days we will head down South for a bit of touring near Bangkok before heading down to the islands for more R&R. I'm looking forward to that!