Post by Dave Zablocki

1st Night in ChiangMai

- First off, I wrote this the first night I was in ChiangMai while I was on a stroll by myself. I've had problems accessing the blog with the ability to post. As Professor Solheim told me while watching one of our Thai presenters have troubles with their computer, "Technology problems are universal." -

If I wouldn't have known I was in Thailand, I might've been worried. The densely filled streets may bare a mark of poverty at first glance, but quickly thereafter an elegance is revealed with the witness of the first Thai smile. It's a beauty I can't quite describe, it's an atmosphere as confusing and strong as their cuisine. I can't help but wonder if I had come here for business, rather than education and adventure, would I be so enchanted? I've only just arrived but I already some how feel a connection. Perhaps I'm just excited - after all my favorite classical music piece was played on the plane to ChiangMai from Bangkok - Edward Elgar's - Nimrod from the Enigma Variations, just google Edward Elgar Nimrod and give it a listen while you read these blogs and you'll get it. Or perhaps, Buddha has truly blessed this country. One thing is for certain, this will be a great experience. And, there are very large trees.