Chaing Mai

Trip Start Sep 09, 2005
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51
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Trip End Dec 23, 2005


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Wednesday, November 16, 2005

Thailand has been more than I anticipated. Consistently the people are overly friendly, always willing to stop and help or point out directions. They are full of pride for their country, land, and king...speaking of the beauty surrounding them, their giving budist beliefs and the importance of family. Chaing Mai is incredibly clean for a city going through quite a growing spurt, making it's way to a large urban destination - trying to keep elements of the countryside and surrounding mountain traditions alive. We hopped in our first tuk tuk - basically a moped carrying a cart - and headed into the old city, still surrounded by it's original walls and moat. We walked the streets, popping in and out of various temples. The city was alive with activity and color. It was the first day of the Loy Krathong Festival. On the eve of the full moon in the 12th Lunar month, Thai's celebrate with parades, fireworks and traditional beliefs. They make mini flower floats, with candles inside, light them and send them off down the river. (We happened to be staying right on the river Ping) They make wishes for the coming year and are supposed to cleanse the soul, and bring health and prosperity. The temples, streets and sidewalks were covered with flowers and decorations. Children were running around in traditional Thai costume, preparing for the parade to begin. I don't believe there could have been a better time to be here!
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