Waking up this morning to the humidity of Northern Thailand was an experience that we are all slowly getting used to. We gathered for breakfast to enjoy a meal before embarking on another tough morning of work.
The floor was completed with concrete throughout, which was an extremely sweaty task, made easier with everyone helping. We formed a “work line”, passing sand and rock from the piles to the construction site. This kept everyone busy and involved in the last stage of the build. We also had a tag team system going, where some people would work inside the house mixing the concrete and we would swap with the people in the work line. Concreting is hard work! The front yard was also dug out and after a final tidy, the house that we had built was finally complete.
After a quick shower (bucket of water and hose) emotions began to run a little high, whilst we assembled at the dining table to donate our gifts to the village. The reaction from the entire village was overwhelming as they thanked us for our contributions. The family receiving the house were introduced and they again thanked us. There were smiles on everyone’s faces and it was evident that we had done something that was going to help these people. We gathered by the house for one final group photo, followed by our farewell to the village that had looked after us for the past two days.
We returned to Chiang Dao via songtheoy (large tuk tuk) for lunch – a delicious Pad Thai. After lunch, we then embarked on a three hour bus journey to Chiang Rai. It was a long trip but we arrived at our new hotel called the Little Duck. Shortly we were given our new room partners and a well deserved and a long awaited clean shower. After some relaxation time, we headed to the Chiang Rai Night Market for dinner and some shopping. The restaurant at the night market had an amazing atmosphere, with live traditional Thai music being played and later, Thai dancing. There was also the general hustle and bustle of the market.
Tomorrow we have another big day as we travel to Chiang Khong, visiting the Golden Triangle area and Opium museum on the way. Tomorrow night will be our final night in Thailand.
By Cam and Claudia (PS. Hi Mum)
