Women of the Kayan tribe appear at Chiang Mai night bazaar to sell souvenirs and offer photo opportunities. (The sign means 'Take a photo with the little girl'), the charge is 20 Baht (50 pence). The Kayan Lahwi people originate from Burma and are refugees. Many fled to Thailand because of military fighting and reside mainly in Mae Hong Son province near the Myanmar border. Most are christian. Some villages are under Thai army protection.
Their income derives from tourism which has dried up and UNHCR aid.
The neck 'rings' comprise a brass coil which gets renewed throughout their lives. The women regard it as a sign of beauty,although many myths exist such as it preventing tiger attacks.