Kanachaburi

So after having enough of Bangkok we jumped on a train to Kanachaburi. The journey was quite an experience - the train itself was a rickety old thing and we weren't sure if we would make it through our 2 hour journey. The scenery was amazing, cutting our way through rainforests and shanty towns - the lack of comfort was soon forgotten and we focussed instead on the views. Our hostel here is awesome - for less then 2 quid a night we have a hut down by the river with our own drinking area with great views - unlike Bangkok I am in no hurry to leave this place. It is so chilled out and relaxed it is how I imagine the Caribbean.

Kanachaburi is an important historical town as this is was were the famous Bridge over the Rver Kwai sits. But despite the historical value our first port of call was a place called the Tiger Temple. Now this place has received mixed reviews - it is essentially a Tiger Sanctuary run by monks where you are able to pet the tigers. The main criticisms have focussed on reports that the tigers are drugged. I definately do not think this was the case - whilst I didnt like the idea that these animals were swamped with tourists everyday I think this is where the mistreatment ends. Anyway i thoughroughly enjoyed the trip and it is not everyday you get to pet a tiger!