Day 9 Chiang Mai

Up and out early this morning as we had a full day planned. Collected outside the hotel by private minibus and we were on our way to  Maetaeng Elephant Park. It was approx one hour drive so not too bad. As soon as we arrived we were ushered into our elephant to ride. This was a lovely experience and we meandered our way along and in the river buying sugar cane along the way to feed him. Our elephant was 35 years old and I will have to ask Nigel what his name was. It is fascinating to see them feel with thief trunks to make sure they have a good footing.

Following this we had a ride in an oxen cart. This was really enjoyable too especially when the driver got off to take some photos and invited Kerith and I to sit in his seat for them. He then proceeded to tell us to drive it!! He was quite happy to just walk alongside as Kerith took the reins and I had the "poking" stick. We even managed to manoeuvre them back to the disembarking point.

Next was the elephant show and whilst I usually worry that the elephants are being asked to perform under duress I have to say they looked as though they were enjoying the fun as much as we were. There were small ones and medium sized doing various things like painting (absolutely amazing), taking penalty shots and beating the goalie every time but then I don't think I would like to be on the receiving end of one of the shots, back heeled shots etc but I think they enjoyed receiving their rewards most of all, bananas from the spectators. They certainly know how many bananas are in the baskets and kept coming back for more until the were all gone, which didn't take long.

The final part of the experience was a gentle raft down the river on a bamboo raft. Once again the guide allowed us to take part which Daryl and Kerith took on. The did a Stirling job of keeping us on the straight and narrow.

Lunch followed and then a trip to an orchid and butterfly farm. The orchids were stunning and do many different colours and varieties.

A trip up the long and winding road to a temple where we paid our respects to loved ones no longer with us by hanging a bell with a sentiment on them. The view of Chiang Mai was spectacular.

We then headed back to the hotel for a rest before spending the evening in the night market again and having food. Tom Yam was the order of the day for me again which was pretty spicy but very good.