First time in Chiang Mai (Chiang Mai)

Member Name: dawntooke

Product:	Chiang Mai
Date:	08/06/01 (152 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheap and easy to get to , Plenty to do, Friendly people

Disadvantages: mmm...dont think so

Whilst in Thailand last year, I took the overnight train from Bangkok to reach Chiang Mai. This is a very convenient and comfortable way to travel. Most of the trains leave Bangkok in the evening and arrive in Chiang Mai the next morning at about 9am.

When we arrived in Chiang Mai, there were a number of touts for guest houses offering free transport. Luckily we had already picked our guest house from the Lonely Planet while on the train, and one of the touts was from there (Banana Guest House). So he drove us there for no extra charge. All the guest houses are really keen to sign you up on their trek-as far as we could tell, the same basic trek is available at all the guest houses. It usually involves a visit to some hill tribes, a night or two staying in basic accomodation, an elephant ride and some river rafting. So after comparing prices we decided to go on the trek with banana guest house. Prices seemed to be quite similar wherever you went.

The trek was really good, and i would highly recommend it. However, not much trekking was actually involved!! We only walked for aout an hour each day. We left most of our luggage, and our valuables at the banana under lock and key, and felt that it was a safe place.

Also in Chiang Mai, we went to the Chiang Mai Thai cookery school. This was a great experience. Not only do they give you all the ingredients ready prepared, but you also get to try all the fruits that are in season. Stay away from the duryans though! (you will know one when you smell it...it puts you in mind of open sewers)You also get a cookery book with all the meals you have made, and some more too. i have to say though, nothing i have made since tastes as good as the food we made on the course!

Chiang Mai's night market is quite famous among travellers. it's huge, and you can get everything from papercrafts, to wooden games, to fake brand names. There are also a number of shops which sell good quality silk. if
you know someone who can sew, you can get some really cheap dresses.

Other than these attractions, Chiang Mai is a lovely place to just walk around and soak up the atmosphere. there are plenty of temples etc(if you are not sick of them by now!), and other beautiful buildings. Of course, it is quite 'geared up' for tourists so there are plenty of handicrafts shops, and lots of hotels etc. this might not be some people's cup of tea!

You can also fly to chiang Mai from bangkok, but i think it is about 6 times the price. You need to buy train tickets a week or so in advance, and book the return leg in chiang mai as soon as you get there...the trains are very popular.

well, i hope this has helped anyone who is planning a trip to thailand. I know that I would jump at the chance to go back

Summary: