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Published: June 15th 2010
My mini van pulled into Chang Mai around 4pm on Sunday afternoon. It had taken all day to get from Huay Xui in far north Laos to CM. I followed some recommendations and found a decent guest house right in the centre of the old city for 150 BHT a night.
Every Sunday night there is a massive street market so I quickly found an ATM (pleased it let me withdraw a decent amount- Laos has a ridiculous limit of 70,000 kip per time= $70) and went shopping. The best part was trying all the different street food. I ate 3 times that night. Pad Thai, fruit shakes. sushi and lemon icecream. All delicious- it's making me hungry just thinking about them.
On Monday I had a 'Western' day. I went to Central Airport Plaza, had a Starbucks and saw Sex in the City 2. I needed a break from traveller mode and it felt great. I bought a few bits and pieces which actually had price tags on them- a novelty and a welcome relief from constant bargaining.
I also needed a bit of time out because I was feeling fed up. When I crossed the overland border into Thailand I was only able to get a 15 day visa. As I am due to meet up with Lisa in 9 days I had to get extra visa time before she arrives. This was disappointing for me as I had been looking forward to slowly making my way through Thailand. So, change of plans. Tonight I catch a mini van back to Vientiene in Laos. I get there at 8am tomorrow morning and I go straight to the Thai consulate. They'll ask me to fill in an application form giving me 2 months of Thai tourist freedom. Theoretically I collect my passport the following day and hopefully catch the night train into Bangkok. That's the plan. Keep your fingers crossed that it all works out.
So, as the next 48 hours will be hectic and sleep deprived I'm signing off for now. See you in Bangkok!
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Carol Williams
non-member comment
Goodluck
Hi Chloe good luck. I hope it all works out as planned. Pleasedyou liked Chang Mai Wedidtoo I remember an ox ride and an elephant trek through the jungle andwhiteriver rafting. The girlswereonly young! Had a lovelymeal with residents of Darter Court. Made me a bit sad but how niceof them to invite us. Your mum said shell letme know when you gethome so I can come see your pics and hear about your adventures. Take care travelling back to Laos ok how strangethat you sawSex And the City in CMai. Much love Carolxx