Hi Carole
I went on this wonderful holiday over Christmas & New Year 2005. No need to feel nervous or apprehensive, everyone mixes really well. It was my first holiday with Justyou as well and now I've just booked my 9th so you can tell I love them all!
It's an excellent time in January before it gets too hot & humid. My ex. lives over there in the north & he says from March on it is too sweltering.
We had a fascinating time even if it was go go go, but that's why you travel to see as much as you can in the time.
Do go on the trip to The River Kwai its MOST interesting & if you've seen the film The Bridge On The River Kwai it'll be even more so. Be sure as well as going into the interesting museum there to go into one of the cemeteries. I have an uncle who died working on the River Kwai bridge building it as a prisoner of war & I found his grave.
Riding elephants was terrific fun in Chiang Mai.
Travel light as there are so many bargains to cram into your case for the return.
When I went we had the beach part at the beginning, wonderful swimming.
Just a tip, when you go on the dragon boats to the floating market the canals have Heaven knows what in them so hold some tissues over your mouth & nose so your face doesn't get splashed & you lick your lips. I was advised to do this by past travellers. It was amazing how these people live in shacks alongside the river.
I came home with 100s of photos, all great to look back on.
We were taken in tuk tuks right through the middle of Bangkok with a police escort front & rear - fabulous!
I felt completely safe. I walked out on my own one afternoon from our hotel in Bangkok & found great street stalls.
Enjoy every minute!
Helen