Thailand summer 07'

I wasn't sure what exactly to expect from Bangkok. Images of ping-pong girls, happy-endings and crazy tuk-tuk drivers scurrying around was all I knew about the city. Despite the presence of all the cliches I was more touched with the amazing scence of national pride, community and love for their king. You can't spend more than a minute in Thailand without seeing numerous pictures of their king. I must admit looks awesome for being in his 80's! Since the king was born on a Monday everyone adopted a national "uniform" of yellow polo shirts with the kings royal symbol on it. Some are trimmed with blue the color of the day the queen was born on. Good thing they weren't born on purple and orange days... Yellow is accepted everyday but largely worn on Sunday when Thais go on a long walk down the city center to exercise and show good health for their king. Monday is also yellow day and a huge presence of yellow is shown.
I headed up north first. Had and incredible time riding a bike around the ruins of Sukhothai. I sort of expected the north or anywhere outside the cities or beaches to be poor and undeveloped. Boy was I wrong! Most of Thailand is very suburban. Wonderful roads and happy well fed people.
The Lampang elephant conservatory was amazing. Great shows and elephant rides. You can see and feel how loved and well cared for they are. We even visited the hospitol where many elephants who stepped on land-mines were being cared for. Most from Burma.
Chiang Mai and Chiang Rei were great. I saw a lady-boy show that was a broadway level extravaganza. Night markets are the best way to spend and evening. How is there time for seedyness with all those shopping oppurtunities.
Crossing into Burma for the day was like entering in a whole new world. Life definately isn't so easy on that side of the border. I was also a little unnerved by all the tiger skins in the market. Mostly frightened by the scary guy who wouldn't let me take pictures. Of course I'd of sent them somewhere.... But people where all smiles despite the obvious poverty.
Southern Thailand was as ideal as I imagined. Best snorkeling in my life and I'm pretty well traveled. Although any place where there are boats beer and boys is perfect.
Overall great trip........I'll spare you the details of the few days in the jungle....lets just say when the leaches outnumber the giftshops I'm over my head!!!