PEOPLE: 23_0_42_1maesalong_randall_hill_01

Tucked in Thailand's northern border Maesalong is a place of contrasts. It's a freedom mecca from it's oppressive neighbors in China, Laos and Burma. Caught between are the Akha tribal people who have been forced from their nomadic tradition because of politics and strict borders. This photo: Ahbu travels in the back of a truck from her home in Maesalong, Thailand to Chiang Rei to receive treatments for her opium addiction. Having ridden in an automobile only once in her life, the hour-long journey has made her sick.

Tucked in Thailand's northern border Maesalong is a place of contrasts. It's a freedom mecca from it's oppressive neighbors in China, Laos and Burma. Caught between are the Akha tribal people who have been forced from their nomadic tradition because of politics and strict borders. This photo: Ahbu travels in the back of a truck from her home in Maesalong, Thailand to Chiang Rei to receive treatments for her opium addiction. Having ridden in an automobile only once in her life, the hour-long journey has made her sick.