A hike brings you to this colossal tree beside a stream -- it takes 16 people's stretched arms to wrap around the conifer. Accommodations are available at both parks and admission to each is B for adults and B for children. For more information, check out the Thai national parks website, www. Mae Sot is perched on the Myanmar border, and the area is always buzzing with trade. The town has a surplus of Burmese woven cotton blankets, lacquerware, jewelry, bronze statues, cotton sarongs, and wicker ware.
Business is conducted in Thai baht, U. There is a dark side to the border, though: Trade means the movement of not just produce and crafts, but also drugs, precious stones, and women or children for prostitution. There's something disquieting about the many European luxury cars parked in front of two-story brick homes lining this village's main street -- they hint at the substantial illegal profiteering. Be careful about buying gems unless you know what you're doing; you can find yourself walking away with a handful of plastic and a dent in your wallet.
The border also sees a heavy flow of refugees, and there are a number of camps in the surrounding hills. Speak with your hotel or guesthouse about how to donate financially to these camps, some of which accept volunteers for the day.
The border between Mae Sot at the town of Rim Moei and Myawaddy, Myanmar, is open daily from 8am to pm, and -- when relations are good -- you can cross the bridge on foot or by car for a day for B. You'll need to leave your passport at the Myanmar immigration booth, and pick it up by pm.
Many visitors cross just for a walk around Myawaddy and a glimpse of Burmese culture. Remember that any official fees you pay to the Myanmar government only add to the coffers of the junta, though. Trekking and rafting in the area around Umphang is very popular, especially to visit the fabulous Ti Lor Su waterfall , which cascades down a cliff in several plumes, and is at its best around October and November. Umphang Hill Resort tel.
