Arrived in Chiang Mai this morning and spent the day with my guide. He is fantastic. Was a novice monk about 20 years ago, spoke great English and was very educated. Spent the day exploring Chiang Mai and a few of the 150 temples. The ManaThai where I'm staying is very quaint and charming as is Chiang Mai. You still have some elements of Bangkok, but on a much smaller scale. Took a tuk-tuk this evening to the night market for some dinner and he didn't try to cheat me so that's an improvement. The weather is brilliant..........warm, but not humid. It will be chiller in the mountains for the trek, but no rain is predicted.

Leaving tomorrow morning for the two day trek to the hilltribe villages. Will not have internet so no posting from me for a few days. I will let you know when I'm back in Chiang Mai on Friday afternoon. Flying to Bangkok on Friday night for early morning flight home on Saturday.

The internet here is very slow, so will not upload any pictures. Had fun last night with Robyn and Anne in Karon Beach, Phuket after our dive/snorkel excursion. Going to bed early tonight to be ready for tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone and Happy Anniversary to my parents!