After looking at about 3 different places I finally decided I was gonna do an organized Trek in one of the areas around Chiang Mai. I picked up a Rough Guide for Thailand so I have some semblance of where I am going. It's from 1998, but I figure the places aren't really gonna change that much, and neither are the books. Anyway, they listed a bunch of things to look for in a Trek, (common sense also tells you these as well). Well, the first place I went to had a pretty cheap trek, but when I asked to see their tourism liscence, the lady said her owner had it, and he wouldn't be back til 8 pm. Then I asked what company they trekked with, and if I could stop by their office. She couldn't give me an address, just a name and a phone number. Yeah, didn't book from them.

The company I booked with was great. The were called Centre Place Tours, and were much more professional. If you are gonna do a trek, do NOT book it from Bangkok (unless you are worried they might be full). It is way more expensive! From Bkk it was around 2300 bhat (or about $75) for a 3 day 2 night trek. This place was 1300 (or $40) for the same and they provided meals, transportation, a knowledgable guide, stored your bags at their hotel, and picked you up and dropped you off. The lady had photos from past trips, could show me her liscence, and ran the tours herself instead of outsourcing. I spoke to a guy who was looking into the same trip (he ended up being on it), and he said this one seemed the best he had ran into so far.

Okay, I'm cutting this one short cause I want to post pictures. More about the trek in later posts.

PS. Thanks for the comments, it's nice to know people are out there, and as much fun as travelling can be, being over here, it's really nice to have contact with people at home (and know that they are concerned about my odor!!)