M-whY

Chiang Rai doesn't have anything unique anyways. Most tourists probably don't stay for very long, using it mostly as a base for day trips out to Burma and the Golden Triangle. If it wasn't for Deer, I don't think I would've stayed here more than a day.

I accompanied her out whenever she had errands to run, but whenever we returned home, we didn't do anything except lounge about. She would ask every morning whether there was anything in particular I wanted to see or do. There are sights to take in, but I was suffering from the 'I've already seen it elsewhere before' syndrome. And so my answer was always the same. I'd go where business took her and would be happy in doing so.

Actually, there was one thing that I wanted to do. My hair needed a trim. It wasn't that long since my last haircut, maybe only a month or so, however, keeping hair short and neat helps in staying cool in warm Thailand weather. In the morning, we went to a local barber. I wasn't sure how good a job he'd do, since I wasn't even asked what I wanted before he picked up his trimmer and went to work. He performed his craft quickly, which pleased me. One thing I don't like is sitting still too long while someone cuts my hair. When he finished, I put on my glasses and glanced in the mirror. Not great, but satisfactory.

"How much is it?" I asked Deer.

"25 baht."

"Say that again??"

"25 baht." That translates into roughly 60 cents. Wow, that's cheap.

I left him a 15 baht tip, which he was very appreciative of. It appears the farther away from the city, not only do prices get lower, the people also become a lot friendlier.

I have to admit, much of my trip has been motivated and driven by this project I've set out to complete. I set a goal when I first left home, and I'd still like to accomplish it. Staying here in the countryside for a couple weeks, or even a month, would be agreeable to a part of me. Another part though is constantly wondering what awaits me in the next town. When I find something I like, just how long should I stay to enjoy it?

Thanks to everyone for their support and comments! Knowing people are reading keeps me motivated to continue the updates!