January 2023 - Back in Siem Reap, Cambodia

July 1, 2022 - After Covid - Finally Leaving Laos (by Bicycle), to return to Chiang Mai, Thailand

On July 1 2022, I crossed the bridge over the Mekong River on my bicycle, from Vientiane, Laos to Nong Khai, Thailand. All restrictions had officially been canceled on that day, and as an American Passport holder, I was allowed to enter Thailand, without any Covid tests (I had proof of 3 Covid Vaccinations). 









I was also allowed to enter the country (for 30 days) without applying for a Visa. There was some confusion at the border, because they were not expecting a bicycle to cross the bridge. Normally people from Laos cross over the bridge on a bus, but the bus would not take my bicycle, so I was told to just ride across the bridge. Thailand immigration was not aware of my arrival though, so it took some time and a fairly comical interrogation (they were concerned that I was smuggling my bicycle into the country, and might sell it without paying tax), before I was allowed to enter Thailand.

From Nong Khai I took the train to Chiang Mai, the bicycle traveling in the baggage car. This train ride took several days, because I needed to change trains in Ayuthaya.

 I managed to stay several months in the Old City of Chiang Mai, at the very pleasant Mountain View Guest House, located just inside the Chang Puak Gate.

 










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