Thailand - The Good, The Bad & The Ugly

Lost in Mae Sariang: A First-Timer's Misadventures in Thailand's Mountain Hideaway Ever heard of Mae Sariang? No? That's exactly why you should go! Tucked away in Thailand's mountainous Mae Hong Son Province, this sleepy riverside town sits in a lush valley surrounded by mist-covered mountains. While tourists flock to nearby Pai for their Instagram moments, Mae Sariang remains delightfully authentic and welcomes very few disrespectful influencers and self-absorbed boho wannabes, leaving you to wonder if you've discovered Thailand's best-kept secret. Getting There (Or Trying To) Getting to Mae Sariang requires determination and a fondness for winding roads: Option 1 : Bus from Chiang Mai For about 200-300+ baht ($5.50-8.50), you can enjoy a 4-5 hour journey featuring approximately 1,000 curves through mountain terrain. The upside: breathtaking scenery. The downside: your breakfast might make a surprise reappearance. Option 2 : Motorbike from Chiang Mai Rent a m...

The Mae Hong Son Loop: Where Gluteus Maximus and Zen Find Common Ground Ever wondered what it feels like to have your spine rearranged while simultaneously experiencing spiritual enlightenment? Welcome to the Mae Hong Son Loop, northern Thailand's answer to the question nobody asked: "Can someone get hemorrhoids and inner peace at the same time?" Picture this: 1,864 curves (yes, someone actually counted) snaking through approximately 600 kilometers of mountains so beautiful they'll make travelers weep, though that might just be eyes watering from the combination of dust, exhaust fumes, and sheer terror as riders navigate hairpin turns with local truck drivers apparently late for their own funerals. Many tourists tackle this legendary 3-5 day motorcycle route because their therapists suggested they "face their fears." Most therapists probably meant public speaking, not clinging to Honda Clicks while praying to deities previously not believed in, but there th...