Zen

With temples on every second street corner, Chiang Mai is similar to Luang Prabang, but it has a much different vibe. Faster, but manageable. I, on the other hand, have pretty much come to a complete stop, and it’s exactly what I wanted to do. My guesthouse has a pool, and I am close to everything, fresh food markets, good vegetarian restaurants and walkable streets.

My oasis.
My oasis.

I went to the Night Market two nights ago.. The whole street, for blocks, consisted of vendors lining the sidewalk, and there were two huge covered areas that look more permanent. I think one of them is the actual market but for me the whole thing melded into one. Lots of tacky stuff but a few things worthy of a second look. Didn’t buy a thing unless you count street food which was good!

Last night, I ate dinner at a tiny veg place a five-minute walk from here. A scrumptious green papaya salad followed by a veg dish featuring red rice, a healthier alternative to white. The place itself is nothing to look at but the food…. I’ll be seeing more of these folks before I leave.

Random shots from my wandering so far…

My friend Beth sees Jimi Hendrix in the water spray. So this is where rock stars go after death.
My friend Beth sees Jimi Hendrix in the water spray. So this is where rock stars go after death.
Entrance to Chili's restaurant. Haven't tried the food; the decor alone is enough!
Entrance to Chili’s restaurant. Haven’t tried the food; the decor alone is enough!
Across the street from the night market...peace.
Across the street from the night market…peace.
I practically tip-toed up to these monks, thinking they were real and absorbed in meditation.
I practically tip-toed up to these “monks”, thinking they were real and absorbed in meditation.
So lifelike.
So lifelike.
Buddhas are calming to me.
Buddhas are calming to me.

 

 

 

 

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