Trekking

We spent 3 days and 2 nights on a trek in the mountains near Chiang Mai. Our group consisted of Darcy and I, two girls from Philly, a brother and sister from BC, two guys from Australia, a girl from Holland, a couple from Ireland, a brother and sister from Denmark, and our guides, Rambo and Pat.





So much happened on the trek, I don’t even know where to start. We swam under waterfalls, slept in a traditional Thai house, ate delicious food, and visited some hill tribe villages.









Our group was really great. We all got along very well, and there weren’t any real strong personalities to deal with. It was interesting to learn about where people had been and where they are going. Most people seemed to be traveling for several months or longer. John and Deirdre (Ireland) are traveling for a year with an around the world ticket. Darcy is envious of Judith (from Holland) who is traveling on her own for 5 months.





We had a great time at night sitting around the campfire. With the Chang beer flowing, John belted out some Irish tunes, Allison (Philly) rapped Gin and Juice, Rambo did his best to play western tunes on the guitar, and Hadas (Philly) kept all the songs and games coming. Chika-ding-ding-ding (Cheers)!







On the second day, we witnessed the killing of a pig for a wedding. One man held the pig while the other beat it over the head with a club. The pig squealed in agony and blood began to pour out of its nose. It was horrifying, and Pat couldn’t explain to us why the killing was so brutal.

One night around the campfire, Pat kept Sune (Denmark) and I entertained with some simple mind games using a handful of sticks and a rope. It is amazing how much fun you can have with simple implements…no Xbox required. I’m a bit jealous of the simplicity of life up in the hills. We busy ourselves with so much worthless crap that we’ve forgotten the basics of life. Are we any better off? Are we happier?



By the time the trek was over, our group had really bonded. Back in Chiang Mai, we all went out for some drinks and laughs. We had a great time! I probably had too much fun, and am not exactly sure how I made it back to the guesthouse.









Next, we are off to Pai for some relaxation. I’m a bit sad to part from the group. It has been so much fun. It is going to be lonely, just the two of us…



See all our photos here.