Left bank, right bank

Our crossing from Burma to Thailand couldn't have been smoother. A simple walk to the immigration office, follow a boat driver to a boat and cross the river. Stamp in at immigration and we're there. Job done. In complete contrast to last year in Central America not one border official has demanded money from us.

The difference between the two countries is immediately visible. Thailand is notably cleaner, vehicles are driven less aggressively and it's quieter. Calm is restored. A our chosen accommodation is Dahla House, a group of little bungalows around a lush green garden. Clean and well maintained. We even have two geese and one day a visiting snake in the garden, which after describing it to the owner I am assured wasn't venomous.

Food is top of our requirements and within 24 hours of our arrival we've had 4 meals and are already discussing the next. The food market here is so clean compared to the markets of Burma, in fact I wouldn't eat in them. Delicious rice river noodles with chicken and basil, crispy pork and rice with sweet and sour sauce even noodle soup with chicken. One stall I want to try but don't have time serves yellow curry sauce with noodles and then you put in the rest of the ingredients to suit yourself... next time.

Two days of just chilling allows us to get the washing done and plan our last few days. From here we'll join some friends in Phuket for two days before then sampling a couple of Islands.