I came to Chiang Mai on Thursday, April 20, for a 12 hour trip. The Thai railroad system has an absolute fantastic On Time Departure record. We departed at exactly 0830, moved exactly two rail car lengths from the starting point, and sat for 15 minutes. We then moved another distance, about the same, and waited until 09;00. When later talking to the staff, they said that they had an enviable departure record. We did arrive in Chiang Mai on time. We were served drinks several times, snacks twice and lunch at noon...all included in the ticket price of 24 Canadian dollars, (641THB).
The weather here is in the mid to high 30s, with today being 37 degrees, and next two days at 38. There is no snow in site.
Yesterday, we went to the top of Mount Doi Suthep, which is a favorite Thai Buddhist site. at the top of a mountain 300 steps above the car drop off point. There is an escalator for those who choose to use it.
This is one of my favorite places in the world, Chiang Mai, with lots of historic sites, gardens and walking to do. The canal is a good morning walking site, so I go out at 0500, do an hour along the canal, thirty minutes out, then return. The hotel begins serving breakfast at 06;00, so after a shower, etc, its time to eat. Breakfast is included with the hotel room at a rate of about 40.00 dollars per night.
We stay indoors at mid day, and go out again in the late afternoon. Because we are only about nine degrees north of the equator, (540 nautical miles), the days are about the same all year, sun up around six, and setting about the same in the evening.
Royal Garden Park, and a 17 meter tall white Buddha are on the list for things to do while here.
Students decided to skip the zoo. Too many hills.
I declined to drive here, due to crazy drivers, and the fact it is done opposite to North America. I was accused of being the only person in the world with a drivers licence restricted to Right Side Driving only!!!. That was what I pleaded, but it did not sink in.
We return to Bangkok on April 30. I will probably report again before departing here.
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