Anantara Arrival

The transfer from Chiang Rai to the Anantara resort comes in three modes of travel. "Tony" takes us by van to the Mekong River in Chiang Saen where we board a long boat for a ride up river along the Laotian side. A speedboat version of a long boat makes for an exciting and harrowing event.

Our ride up the Makong

Typical cargo carrier on the Makong

Arriving at Anantara's dock on a small river separating Thailand and Burma (Myanmar), the last leg is by elephant. We start off with the mahout (driver) coaxing the taxi.

 

Shortly after a stop to re-hydrate the elephant, we run across this mob. At this point our mahout driving on foot from about 70 feet in front of us.

The five that have already passed by

The three still to go; note the size of the path

Alone and hanging on

 An elephant learning experience comes in the afternoon where a UVA graduate from California teaches about elephants. After the class we get to feed and bathe three elephants. They in turn take the opportunity to shower us.

Carol feeding the piggies

CJ feeds the shy one; just like him

Giving the elephant a drink

CJ washing them down and cooling them off

Elephant washing us down

From the balcony of our room we look out over Thailand, Myanmar, the Mekong River and  mountains of Laos.

Anantara has a marvelous infinity pool which after today's heat is essential.

The Thai food served is excellent and comes with surprising preparation techniques. Our starter was particularly unusual with Betel leaves used to form a wrap.