Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is where the old and the new meet in a fascinating way. The city was founded in 1296 and its ancient temples are juxtaposed with ultramodern boutique hotels, shopping malls and world-class resort hotels. This mix of tourism delights combine to beckon visitors to come and enjoy.
The old city of Chiang Mai is a showcase of the north’s indigenous cultural identity that consists of different dialects, a delectable cuisine, distinctive architecture, traditional values, lively festivals, numerous handicrafts workshops, northern style massage and classical dances.
A visit to Chiang Mai is a visual and sensuous feast of old-world beauty and charm along with modern luxury and convenience. In addition to centuries-old temples and some outstanding shopping opportunities, Chiang Mai is also blessed with pristine natural resources including mountains, waterfalls and rivers. The presence of numerous hill tribes that exhibit a wealth of unique cultures enhances Chiang Mai’s distinctive diversity.
You can intersperse your trek these hill tribes with river rafting and elephant riding, which are considered Chiang Mai’s biggest tourist attractions. You can engage in many other both in the city and the surrounding province such as playing golf and getting a massage or receiving massage instructions.
There is such a vast choice of fun activities. For example, visitors can visit workshops where they can learn the process of silk or silver production, after which they can buy and take home memorable hand-crafted souvenirs.
Because of this diverse range of attractions and an equally grand selection of dining and accommodation options, both backpackers and luxury tourists find a Chiang Mai visit the ultimate Thailand holiday.
Apart from seeing elephants at work and at play, there are also pandas at the Chiang Mai zoo but the admission fees are separate for pandas and the other animals. Visitors are also adviced to avoid patronizing elephant camps that exploit these animals, which are considered the national symbol of Thailand.
If tourists want to take home authentic native arts, the place go in Chiang Mai is the Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Training Center in Mae Hong Son. There you can buy native Thai products and be rewarded with grateful smiles from the villagers because the proceeds from the sale are used for their upkeep. The best time to visit Chiang Mai is during the Songkran Festival on April 13-15 when the whole city come out to celebrate.
Shirley Lee is a blogger, traveler and a writer for a website which caters people who are looking for hotels in Thailand.
You can have the finest holiday in Thailand usually, one of the finest destinations for vacation. Sensibly cheap compared to american standards. Women and people are so wonderful and accommodation is up to standart usually.