October 1949 and deep in the hills of Chinese Yunnan, a battle had been raging for days. The 93rd Division of the Kuomintang (KMT) Army, cut off from defeated Chinese Nationalist Chiang Kai-shek’s main force, is fighting a fierce rearguard action against Chairman Mao’s all conquering Red Army. Between the 93rd and safety stands the Yuan Jiang River.

‘We lost thousands of soldiers and civilians trying to get across that river,’ says 55-year-old ex-KMT colonel Somboon Aimvitayakun, ‘but we made it across and escaped into Burma.’ Although Somboon wasn’t even born at that time, his father, Jang Pong Gow, who went on to become a KMT general, was there, a close adviser to commanding officer General Tuan Shi-wen. ‘This battle was our proudest moment,’ says Somboon.

To read the full story go to

http://www.cnntraveller.com/2009/07/14/swords-into-teacups/

News story by Andrew Spooner

http://www.andrewspooner.net/

Operated by the very affable, friendly Mr J.H. Ho, there are a number of very cozy, modest priced bungalows available, plus excellent off-street parking.

BOOKINGS:  Telephone:+66 053 765026  or  Mobile: +66 0871851978

Shin Sane Tarif / Rates	Bungalows at hin Sane Guest House

If you are lucky enough to be there on BBQ Night, the staff produce some culinary masterpieces from humble equipment… its very entertaining, lots of hilarity, chatter and smoke!!!

Sweet Maesalong Bakery

A range of cakes and coffees are available.

The cafe has one of the best views in the world!

Location:

Half way between the Shin Sane Guest House and the Mae Salong Villa restaurant, on the east side of the road.