That is really too bad that this is happening. It really seems like a pretty nice place given all of your posts that I have read about it. Definitely different than what I am used to, but in a cool way, not in a bad way. I actually know someone that just spent some time in Chiang Mai and the pictures they posted on Facebook were pretty cool. I think they were there over New Years or something like that. Lots of really beautiful areas. As sad as it will be for you to leave, I am looking forward to seeing your posts about Vietnam and living vicariously through you as you explore the country.