Nong Khai

Our last day in Chiang Mai was Friday. It was a bittersweet goodbye. I was sad to leave because I had grown attached to the city and was finally able to navigate around easily. We had experienced all the city had to offer, so it was nice to arrive in a new location. The group departed for Sukkothai on Saturday, and stayed until Monday. There, we stayed in a very nice hotel and were able to swim in a pool! We spent many hours poolside--eating, reading, chatting, etc. There isn't much to do in Sukkothai, other than visit the remnants of Thailand's first capital. Which, of course we did. We rode bikes around the area and saw the beautiful ruins. I'll have to upload pictures soon, because they are literally breathtaking.

After Sukkothai, the Cal Poly group took an 8-hour bus ride to Nong Khai. We arrived at the Mut Mee Guesthouse, which is where I am sitting now. It is along the Mekong River, which borders Thailand from Laos. Aside from the mosquitos, this place is close to paradise. We're staying in varying types of bungalows, and there is a floating restaurant on the river. At the moment, I'm enjoying the breeze while sitting in the outdoor cafe. Again, I'll have to upload pictures.

Today was our first full day in Nong Khai, and we were able to visit another tribe (the Isan). The highlight of this experience was eating a cricket and red ant eggs! The cricket was actually delicious. Imagine the taste of chicken with the texture of a sunflower seed, and there you have it! This weekend, my friends and I are traveling to Laos. I'll update soon!