south Thailand

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Ranong is lovely. In the south we saw more hills and trees than Bangkok, more mosques than central or north Thailand. This mosque is walking distance from my home in Ranong, the hills a short drive away. Aom and family laughed as I scrambled up the hill for a better view; they thought it was too hot. Means I must be becoming acclimated to Thai weather, just in time for our US winter.
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Ranong is famous for its pearls, so we went shopping. Also famous for rubber plantations, which I found interesting and pretty, trees all in orderly rows.
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And Aom's family took me to Phuket, rightfully famous for its beautiful beaches. The family pose is in the hotel where Aom's parents went for their honeymoon, quite elegant and now outrageously expensive. Just like Mom and Dad for their 50th, evidence that you chose a good location the first time 'round.

Currently with AFS for end-of-stay in Thailand; I think my next post will be a wrap-up from the States. It has been a wonderful visit, rich and varied.
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