Those little things I done

*Shrieks
A giant elephant came charging at me… in one effortless snatch, its trunk wrapped tightly around my bunch of banana and sugarcanes.
And there was I. Wrestling with that burly robber, protecting my 20 Baht elephant feed.
Of course, I was no match for it. Standing there in astonishment, I could do nothing but to watch that bully chomping down the entire bunch of banana; followed by the sugarcanes that seemed to 'flow' right down its throat.

In view of all excited tourists that were watching the drama between the tiny, wide-eyed Asian and that gigantic beast, the robber gave a polite thank you bow and turned to join its mates.

It was great fun. After 3 days of tension and stress, I finally got to wander around in Chiang Mai for 1 day, all by myself. This tour managing business was totally new to me- hardly a breather of time for me to grasp things fully. But just like what Ethan said- get thrown into water and you will learn how to swim faster. Won’t said that I have done a fantastic job but I know that I will the next time.

I learnt a great deal during this journey and from my colleague, Asiah.. She had pushed me beyond to certain limits that I have not ventured before. 4 days with her have made me realise what I can accomplish more. She can form her own fan club at any time, any place with anyone. The passengers adored her. To them, she’s the fun factor in Chiang Mai beside the shopping trips and delicious local fares. She’s not that easy to work with as, being a perfectionist, you will expect everything to go according to your whims and deadline.

Asiah and me with the local tour guides, Peo and John

I can’t say that I love travelling alone that much- but it sure gave you another kinda experience that you will not enjoy with your travelling mates. That freedom to do whatever you please, that sense of accomplishment when you found your way to the designated attraction and that in-depth understanding about people (locals and foreigners)~ I guess when you are alone, people tend to open up more freely to you.

If you have thought that I am a social animal, this is not entirely true. I always just have been friendly- and there’s a fine line between social and friendly. I don’t strike causal conversations with strangers but I guess I do now, after a day alone in Chiang Mai.

My delightful English companion on this 1hr elephant ride, Paul (who got a tad too excited when we spotted a bright turquoise lizard..)


Elephants that draw better than me.... Insulting..

Chiang Mai is quite an appealing alternative from Bangkok. If you think that BKK’s shopping is fabulous, you may change your mind after a day spends in the Sunday Market and Night Bazaar. The hawkers there are friendlier, goods are cheaper and of better quality. (But of course, good bargaining skills are still a necessity~ I bought a painting with original price of 550 Baht at 100 Baht).

The Sunday Market
Do you know that everyday at 8am and 6pm, Thailand national anthem will be broadcast in the public and all movements are to be stopped? You will see everyone on their feet, froze for 2 minutes. And yes, it includes the road traffic as well. Imagine our amazement when everyone on the Night Market street stood to attention. Wish I can get a shot but don't wanna risk being stoned....



The gigantic bed that I slept on, during my last night in Chiang Mai...








That comes with a strange key....(have no idea what to make of this heavy key handle? A weapon? A puzzle piece to be fit in the room? Or as a welcome gesture- dildo for guests?)

Chiang Mai is definitely a great place for people who want best of the two worlds~ shopping spree and beautiful nature tourism. Let me know if you wish to go there soon.... cos I’ll be right there with you!

Meanwhile, Tioman.. here I come!!