Chiang Mai general travel information

Posted by paul on March 16th, 2009 filed in Attractions, Day trips, Locals, tourist tips

Nicknamed the “Rose of the North” because of the wide range of exotic flowers that grow in the mountainous region’s cooler climate, the provincial capital of Chiang Mai boasts many sites featuring unbeatable natural beauty.

For those wishing to get away from hectic Bangkok, Chiang Mai City and its surrounding area offers a historically fascinating and much calmer retreat. Thailand’s second most significant city offers a wide and varied range of historical, natural, cultural and gastronomic attractions along with many adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, while there’s also plenty of entertainment for the children available.

Chiang Mai is truly one of Thailand’s most rewarding travel destinations and it is not surprising that thousands of international expatriates and retirees made it their home. The hospitable locals are friendly, helpful and famous for producing beautiful handicrafts, souvenirs, woodcrafts, jewellery, silk clothing and many more cheaply priced goods. The city attracts huge crowds of shoppers from all over the world, year-round. 

The city isn’t short of lodging establishments and every type of traveller will find suitable accommodation that suits his budget and needs. There’s a wide range of luxurious five-star hotels, tranquil resorts and budget-friendly guesthouses to be found here, making Chiang Mai one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations.  

Probably the most ideal thing about Chiang Mai for visiting tourists is that with limited effort and research it isn’t very difficult to find rewarding localities, which are easy accessible and located within just a short drive from the downtown area. Northern Thailand boasts superb landscapes and rural areas that make some unforgettable trekking and sightseeing tours.

Several must-see locations within a short distance of the city include: Doi Saket with its stunning mountain temple, the bohemian town of Pai in Mae Hong Son province, Chiang Dao, Soppong, Mae Salong and the world-famous and the mysterious Golden Triangle in Chiang Rai province.