[Central Scrutiniser]

I flew in to Samui the day after thanksgiving, we had just dodged a typhoon.

I haven't been to Chiang Mai yet, everyone tells me I must go, maybe next trip, along with a trip to Luang Prabang in Laos.

Just heard, the King's grandson did in fact die, that's gonna be big.

[JimSEA]

the King's grandson did in fact die, that's gonna be big.

It is, the boy is retarded but, of course much loved. He was doing so well in overcoming his problems and was this wife's only child, I believe. The King and royal family are justifiably much loved. This King has saved democratic processes and human rights from attack by military and business forces on several occasions yet has never gone the leftist route.

I have had to stop watching TV for a while. As you know, the press coverage here can be extremely graphic.

[Chgogal]

Sorry to butt in. Try Mae Hong Son a little northwest of Chiang Mai close to the Burma border. You can stay in a little rustic resort (by my standards) along the Pai River and as the morning mist evaporates, elephants will meander down and take their morning bath.

On a sadder note, I saw Ao Nang on the tube. There is damage. Koh Phi Phi isn't even recognizable. I hope the Similian National Park has survived. I still haven't managed to find time to dive there. Hopefully you will go someday in search of the Whale Sharks that swim the waters there.