if you do one thing in Thailand, make sure it's this: spend the day at Patara Elephant Camp: http://www.pataraelephantfarm.com/

Truly one of the most rewarding experience we have ever had. Instead of riding elephants or watching them do tricks like caged animals, you care for rescued elephants-- feeding them, bathing them, etc. These are incredible creatures and the workers at Patara understand and respect them. Must go!

Anyone know if this is an annual festival: http://www.youtube.co...N9Ko-yvJzHU

Sukhothai was the capital of the first Kingdom of Siam in the 13th and 14th centuries. It has a number of fine monuments, illustrating the beginnings of Thai architecture. One of 5 World Heritage Sites in Thailand!