Mosquitos. How rude!

I've learned a thing or two about Malaria and other diseases in my travels. Let me start by saying, do your research first, talk to other travelers. When I first went to the travel clinic to see what shots and precautions were needed for my trip I was more then overwhelmed due to the fact I have wander lust and not paid holiday. For some, you know where and when you are going, what you are doing, and for how long. For those like myself you know the country or countries you will be visiting but not specifically the areas, season, or events that may be taking place during this time. Therefor, things can get expensive. The vaccinations seem to add up, both a pain in the arm and wallet (thanks, dad!)it may seem like a money grab (everything is) but the health nurses are also very concerned about the severity of the illness' if contracted. You can definitely weigh your options as to what is absolutely necessary (certain shots are needed to enter a country) and what seems the odds are actually in your favor on a positive note. For example, it was stressed to me that I take a treated mosquito net with me. Turns out every guesthouse has a mosquito net or a fan or air con to keep those pests at bay. So let's just say I threw $50 down the drain (no biggie in Canada, or 3 dozen Timmy's coffees) however that's a full week of local food and accommodation out here, I rue the day. Better safe than sorry? Well I'm sorry, I didn't need that. Malaria, right, back on track. Looking at the maps I couldn't give the nurse a straight answer but it looked like I wasn't going to be living in the jungle or hanging out in the pasture so I opted out. Just today though I spoke with a local who informed me Pai has Malaria, I did not have this information last time I was here. So I typed to my good friend WWW. For help. I'm not sure what medication they prescribe to you at the travel clinic when you accept malaria pills, but i do know it can get VERY costly as you need to take it x amount of days before, during, and after your time in a malaria zone. It could end up being hundreds of dollars. Fun fact: this post is getting long...the next will have the actual information and probably another rant for good measure.