After having an awful night sleep on the train, we finally arrived into Chiang Mai at about 8am. We were picked up from the station by a luxury minibus compared to some I've been on before and got taken straight to the hotel to drop off our bags.
Shortly after we took a truck like vehicle which are Chiang Mai's main taxi method up to Doi Suthep. This was a large temple on top of the mountain overlooking Chiang Mai. We took the mountain road which winded through the jungle, with barriers and a sheer drop one side. Our transport had an open door and driver took corners at speed which made things slightly hairy at times!
Upon arrival at Doi Suthep we had a climb of over 300 steps to reach the summit. The temple included golden structures and heavily detailed artwork over the buildings. I even had my fortune told, and the monk gave us good luck for the hill tribe trek by blessing us by flicking water over us! He also gave us a string bracelet for good luck.
It was then back the hotel where I had an omelette and spring rolls for lunch, before heading off to Tiger Kingdom with 4 others to visit the Tigers. We saw a variety of sizes included cute little babies and large tigers that roared very loudly, and even a white tiger and liger. The highlight of the visit however was the chance to actually see some of the tigers up close in the cage with them. You could choose from a variety of packages and we went for the small tigers. It was just like stroking a domestic cat in a way!
After finishing at Tiger Kingdom we returned to the hotel and I decided to go out geocaching while waiting for others to return and relax for a 6.30pm meeting time. I went round the city moat which surrounds the whole city and found 4 caches in all.
It was then onto the night bazaar for the evening which was a large market where you barter for a large variety of items including clothing, homemade goods and jewellery. I ate a rotee here which was like pancake. We had a good look round the market and some bought more than others, there are some real shoppers in the group... and drinker"(s)" come to mention it! I ended up buying some Thai trousers here to try and fit into the Thai culture more!
It was then off to the ladyboy show to finish off the evening which was actually really good despite them kissing you! There were a variety of routines, including a Rihanna and Lady Gaga one where a man got tied up on stage, and an array of colorful routines with boas. We finally came home at about 11ish.
That now brings you completely up to date for now. I obviously won't be able to post until after the hill tribe trek now, and again apologies for the lack of photos! Speak soon!
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