One of the nice things about traveling with someone is that you do things you wouldn't necessarily do because the other person would enjoy it.

Shopping falls under this category. Tina and I visted the Thai Silk Village, The Gems Gallery, which claims to be the "Wold'd Largest Jewelry Store" and a Lacquer outlet of sorts.

It was actually pretty cool. We got to see people making silk, hand panting laquer and making jewelry- albeit briefly.

We were then ushured onto the sales floor. Where your personal attendent helps you shop.

I tried on a yellow saphire ring the size of half an apricot. It was enormous. I can't imagine even wanting to wear it. I asked my sales rep who bought some of the larger more ostentacious pieces and she said, "Iraqi women".

Hmm. So the war has affected your business?

Affirmative.