Chiang Mai

In my opinion Chiang Mai has more attractions, more fascination, more festivals and more appeal than any mountain resort in Asia. Blended with local people’ s unique hospitality, cuisine and amazing atmosphere, plus the comparatively low cost of hotel accommodation, I think this place is unbeatable.

It is worth remembering however that apart from small sections of the town, Chiang Mai is spread out over a fairly wide area, and some form of transportation is essential to appreciate all there is to see. Newly arrived visitors who venture out on foot from their downtown hotel for "a walk" may discover that like most other cities in Asia, Chiang Mai suffers from some modern day problems. Traffic, and the veneer of modernity reflected by highways and tall buildings can conceal the real magic, and create a little bit of disappoinment for the first impression.

Chiang Mai enjoys three distinct seasons. From November to March the days are beautifully warm, and the evenings cool enough to warrant a sweater or light jacket. At higher altitudes, heavier clothing is needed. April and May can be uncomfortably hot, especially in the afternoons, but the nights are cool, and early mornings perfect for sightseeing. The rainy season, roughly from June to mid-October gives a pleasant mix of tropical downpours and bright sunshine, in this season you will enjoy with variety of tropical flower.

The city is rapidly becoming a regional airline hub, and it is possible to combine Chiang Mai with other exotic destinations to create an exciting holiday itinerary. There are also flight connections with Kunming and Jinghong in China, Rangoon and Mandalay in Burma, Luang Prabang and Vientiane in Laos. There are also direct flights to Taipei and Singapore.

Chiang Mai has a wild variety of activities to suit all ages and preferences. Here in Chiang Mai activities on offer include: climbing, mountain biking, walking, trekking, shopping, bowling, tennis, golf, swimming, cooking courses, meditations, yoga, tai chi, kick boxing, trekking, adventure activities and running my favorite are kick boxing and swimming.

Chiang Mai of course has no beach, but for those who seek sand and sea combined with these mountainous northern delights, I would to say that this city is one of the best place you cannot miss