16 years was enough, and when we went O&A, I liked almost every place we went to, better than Isan areas, as flat & boring in comparison. Except for the edges of the plateau, Isan's landscape is really boring. Just too far from where I'd rather be, near the surf, or have some rolling hills closer. Along with the air pollution gets horrendous at times. Why I'd never live north of Hua Hin, the pollution sucks for about half the year. Rural life is quiet & peaceful, and metro for mid day outings was nice with the mix of vendors, and mere 20 minutes away. Early morning & all evenings, just too congested after about 10 yrs. Nice 1000 - 1400 hr, after that, avoid being in town. Congestion got terrible after the govt rebate for vehicles. Seems like everyone that could barely afford one, bought one. I upgraded, sort of, and put one in the wife's name, since had to be 1st time buyer. 100k off the excise tax, made for real priced car or truck, instead of their silly pricing. Would have left Udon area within 5 yrs of being there, after sold 1st house, if I could take the kid out of school to another province. Not allowed since village 'orphan' instead of my blood daughter. Her grandparents wouldn't allow it. Means I wouldn't have met my present wife, so staying longer worked out good.
