hannesnaomi
motodop
Posts: 22

#1 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 00:52


Hi Everyone,
We are departing for Thailand at the end of Feb for 1 month. Have some basic ideas of places we want to vist. Have heard mixed reviews about Chaing Mai and are trying to decide if it is worth making the journey north? Is there much there to see/do in March? Is it worth the trip north or is our time better spent elsewhere? We plan to spend the bulk of our trip on various Thai islands in the hunt for white sandy beaches with turquoise blue, crystal clear water.
Recommendations on villages/towns or islands would be appreciated and we are open to most anything. We are backpacking and are in our late 30's (if this makes a difference?). We like smaller, quieter not so touristy locations however we also want to experience the bustling active spots too! HELP!

marianwarren
adventurer
Posts: 256

#2 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 03:02


I think Chiang Mai is an absolute gem!!!

exacto
som tam seller
Posts: 640

#3 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 04:10


I agree with Marian that Chiang Mai is an absolute gem and it is one of my favorite places in the entire world. The one caveat I would have is that the burn offs have been very bad over the past few years, turning Chiang Mai into a smog-riddled city for a few months during the burning season. Unfortunately, I can't say if that will be true during the timeframe you mention or not.

Excellent alternatives to Chiang Mai are Kanchanaburi, Ayutthaya, or Nong Khai (and a brief trip into Vientiane, Laos as well). If you do head to Chiang Mai, think about a side trip to Chiang Dao.

hannesnaomi
motodop
Posts: 22

#4 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 05:10


Thanks both exacto and marianwarren for responding. Can you elaborate on why you think Chiang Mai is a "gem". What did you most like about it? What would you say NOT to miss if you go there? and other than the smog any other draw backs. Thanks again!

marianwarren
adventurer
Posts: 256

#5 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 05:50


Chiang Mai has so much going for it - the old moated city, Lanna architecture dating back to 1296, Burmese influences from 1558 - the food also reflects same influences, I've eaten some wonderful food there. The night market with some of the best prices in Thailand and the Sunday market is a must. Very friendly and helpful people.

While the traffic is chaotic the pace is very laidback. It's easy to be seduced into staying longer than anticipated. Sure the pollution fumes are a drawback and as exacto says after burnoff its even worse. It's a very palatable microcosm of Thai life, minus white sand and palm trees.

My first visit was for 10 days, the second for 11 - I could seriously consider living there - both visits I was in my 40's. Try reading about Chiang Mai in the Trip reports section - maybe they will help you decide whether to visit or not.

Kind regards

Marian

exacto
som tam seller
Posts: 640

#6 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 12:40


It's the perfect mix of authentic Thailand and traveller-friendly restaurants and services, ancient and modern Thai culture, generally mild weather, and great value for money.

Definitely read through the trip reports section for more ideas and be sure to read the feature article on Chiang Dao as well to get a better idea of why I recommend it so much. Have fun.

Jon_Mak_Mak
tuk tuk driver
Posts: 161
Located in:
United Kingdom

#7 Posted: 13/2/2008 - 23:41


Chiang Mai is an amazing city! they are a different breed of people up there and its one of my fav places in Thailand. Deff go there if you have the choice.

Take some day trips north of Chiang mai to Chang Dao, Mae Tang.

:)

lindsayjb
newbie
Posts: 2

#8 Posted: 15/2/2008 - 00:14


Completely agree, Chiang Mai is well worth a visit. I just spent 4 days there with my parents. The place has enough to keep everyone happy, regardless of age and interests. Crazy amount of temples - and probably the most beautiful one I have seen in thailand so far, Wat U Mong. Also recommend the saturday night market for a great range of stuff & good value.

I stayed at the 3 Sis bed & breakfast and my parents stayed in the new addition next door, the 3 Sis vacation lodge (posher but great value for money). I highly recommend this place - lovely vibe, family-run, very decent breakfast is included, and in a good location opposite Wat Chedi Luang (also very beautiful, especially in the evening). I've already booked a return visit with friends in april! Have fun :)

teacherdavids
longtail driver
Posts: 6

#9 Posted: 27/2/2008 - 20:03


Chiang Mai wins hands down over Bangkok. Suggestion... Rent a scooter and get out of town. If you get lost can always find a place to stay the night. Best thing my wife and I did was rent a scooter for a few day. Lots of local places to eat and they usually charge a reasonable Thai price rather than the jacked up prices of some of the places in town.