Sri Chiang Mai is best known as being the spring roll capital of Thailand -- wherever you look, spring roll wrappers sit on their bamboo frames, slowly drying in the sun.

Aside from providing ample opportunity to take photos of drying spring roll wrappers, Sri Chiang Mai offers a relaxing atmosphere with lovely views of Vientiane on the other side of the river. It can also be used as a base to explore the surrounding rural area.

A promenade lines the bank of the Mekong here and it makes for a very pleasant late afternoon stroll. Sri Chiang Mai is also the best jumping-off point for the rather unusual historical park in Udon Thani.