Many guide books on Thailand only partially cover the subject of health and well-being while traveling in the country, so I would like to give you some advice about transportation, protocol, health, and the law. Hopefully it will help you to enjoy your travels in Northern Thailand.

When you arrive in Chiangmai, it helps to know a bit about transportation within the city. At the airport, train station, or bus station, you will probably be met by the representatives of various guesthouses and hotels and tour operators. If you have a specific place in mind and you don't see the specific signboard, you can always call the place to have someone pick you up from the train station, airport, or bus arcade depot. Taxis are available at the airport, with a price of 150 baht to most destinations.

The common vehicles of public transportation are more varied than public buses. The terms 'dtoog dtoog' and 'sarmlor' are open-air, three-wheel vehicles, and 'zeelor' and 'songthaew' describe vehicles with four wheels. Whenever you get in a 'dtoog dtoog', 'zeelor', or 'samlor', you should make sure that they take you where you want to go. Often the drivers work on commission and may tell you that the place you want to go is dirty, closed, or full if they don't have a previous agreement with the place you have in mind. Always negotiate the price before you get in a dtoog dtoog or samlor. A zeelor ride should cost 15 Baht on a regular route, more if you hire it out to go somewhere out of the way.

The best way to get around Chiangmai is by 'songthaew'. These are covered pick-up trucks with two benches in the back. “Songthaew” means “two benches” in Thai. You will see them everywhere, and it's easy to get them to pick you up. All you need to do is to put your arm out and look at the driver, and they will stop. Then tell the driver which street you want to go to, and if he is going that way, he will shake his head "yes"; if not, he will say "no" and go on. Don’t worry—there will be another one right behind him. When the driver turns down the street you want, start looking for where you want to get off and press the switch located on the roof of the cab. The driver will pull over, let you out, and then you pay him. The fare should be 20 Thai baht or less (around 50 cents). If you tell the driver a hotel or establishment, he will think you want to hire him for a private trip, and the price will be much more. Negotiate any price beforehand if you want to go to an establishment.

Thai culture and their way of thinking
Meeting and making friends with different people is an exciting part of travel anywhere. In Northern Thailand, it helps to know a bit of the language and something about the protocol. To say "hello", say "Sawasdee Krup" for men and "Sawasdee Kha" for women. To learn more Thai before you come, an excellent free teaching website can be found at http://www.learningthai.com/. You will gain loads of respect from the Thai people if you learn just the basics.

The Thais put a lot of emphasis on manners, so it's a good idea to learn to say "Thank you". In Thai, it's "Kob Khun", followed by "Krup" or "Kha" for women. The "wai" made by placing your palms together in front of the upper chest is the traditional Thai gesture of greeting or respect, and the gesture is always appreciated. The custom is that younger people "wai" elders first, so let the children and persons you think are younger than you "wai" before you "wai" them.

The Thai people have several customs that are important to remember to avoid causing offense. Never touch the head, because it is the most sacred part of the body. The feet are the lowliest part, so don't point them at others or rest them above ground level. Never stop a rolling Thai Baht coin or any type of Thai currency with your foot, as the money here has a picture of the king on it.

Respect for the king and religious customs is another important part of Thai protocol. They have great respect for the royal family, the flag, and anything with an image of the king, including the money. When you visit a Buddhist temple, you should always remove your shoes before entering any buildings. Men should wear long pants, and women should wear knee-length or longer skirts. Women are not allowed to touch monks or make prolonged eye contact with them. Do not sit on the walls surrounding the jedee, which contains the temple's sacred relics of the Buddha.

Don't display your anger, because the Thais will think you uncultured, and ranting will get you nowhere. Smile and think "no problem". Thais do not like confrontation, so getting angry will get you nowhere in Thailand. Here is an example:

Let’s say you arrive at your hotel and want a nice, hot shower or bath. You turn on the tap and find the hot water is not working. What most people would do is call the front desk and complain, and if you are tired, you might raise your voice a little, saying, “The hot water doesn’t work—what’s the problem?” It might take a long time before someone comes to check it out, if at all. What you should do is say, “I don’t know how to get the hot water turned on in my room; would you please have someone show me?” Someone will come to your room within a minute or two to check it out.

Important Do's and Don'ts
Thailand is a country of gourmands. Eating out is one the nation's favorite activities, and knowing a bit of table manners will help you appear more civilized. Waiters and waitresses in Thailand are trained to take your entire order. When they take the order, they will often ask "one", which is their way of asking whether they got it correctly or not. The entire meal is customarily served at the same time, but the empty dishes are removed one by one. Some street-side restaurants will not remove any dishes or bottles until you finish your meal. This is because they do not write down your order. They shout your order to the cook, and after the meal, they will count the plates and bottles and figure out the bill then.

Chiangmai and the north have plenty of night entertainment available. It runs the gamut from restaurants to nightclubs, discos, or video bars. Thai people are often as interested in meeting you as you might be in meeting them, but one should exercise discretion and sometimes a bit of caution, especially in matters of the heart. In romantic situations, Westerners and Thais both occasionally get hurt. The best advice is to think with your head AND your heart. Enjoy yourself, but be very adult about any given situation.

Many visitors to Chiangmai enjoy taking trips outside the city. We recommend these trips highly, but don't forget to bring a few extras in case of emergency. Flashlights and extra batteries, as well as film and camera batteries, are recommended, as are matches or a lighter. Jackets may be needed for the cold evenings, and don't forget a first-aid kit and the ever-important toilet paper for emergencies. Ear plugs are a good idea if staying overnight in a hill tribe village, as the roosters can be very loud at 3am.

Keeping healthy on holiday is essential. If you feel ill, it's probably a good idea to see a doctor in one of Chiangmai's clinics or hospitals. If you are worried that you may have come down with malaria, Chiangmai has an excellent malaria clinic. There you can get a 30-minute test. For more information, call the Regional Center at 222275. Whatever you do, don't take chances with your health while traveling away from home.

While Chiangmai is a great place to visit, just like any other city, crime is never on holiday when you are. Theft seems to be the most common tourist-targeted crime, and this includes credit cards and passports. How about carrying half your cash in a body money belt? If you must leave your passport or credit cards anywhere for safekeeping, we recommend using a safety deposit box in one of the local banks or your hotel. Do not give anyone valuables to put in a safe. Make sure you both have a key to the safety box and a list of items that you put in. When you go trekking, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) suggests that a photocopy of your passport is acceptable identification to carry on the trek.

Every visitor should be well-informed about Thailand's laws on illegal drugs. Drugs that are illegal in your home country are just as illegal in Thailand. There are no "recreational" drugs in Thailand. The list of banned substances includes marijuana and hashish, as well as opium, heroine, and cocaine. Unfortunately, some people come to Northern Thailand with the impression that the use of some drugs is okay. This is a misguided and very wrong impression. There are now undercover police in hill tribe villages, and you will get caught. Naiveté is not an excuse in court. There is extreme danger in buying or using drugs in Northern Thailand, and we hope all visitors will keep this in mind. The laws are very strict, and the punishment is not pleasant.

The advice given on this page is by no means comprehensive, but it presents many of the fundamental cautions that will help you get the most out of your trip to this beautiful country. If you would like more detailed medical or health information, please speak with a doctor or other trained professional. For legal or travel safety information, contact the Chiangmai Tourist Police.

To see a home video of my wife and I at Warorot Market in Chiang Mai see
http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/WM.wmv
about 7 minutes long, streams well with I.E. and Windows Media Player.

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

Very well thought out and extremely helpful. We will be in Chang Mai on Dec. 20th for 4 days and I got a lot out of your advice. I particularly enjoyed viewing your video of the market. It got my adrenaline going in anticipation of this trip. Thank you!! ^

Well, there's a coincidence - we'll be there too. For 3 nights. Still deciding where to stay since Rachamankha is full. Might try Tri Yaan Na Ros as allthai suggests.

Well, there's a coincidence - we'll be there too. For 3 nights. Still deciding where to stay since Rachamankha is full. Might try Tri Yaan Na Ros as allthai suggests.

We just picked up 2 friends from the Chiang Mai airport and took then to Tri Yaan Na Ros. They are the only ones staying there. That might change by Dec. We will leave wed. for bird watching at Doi Inthanon national Park and return fri.

When you arrive in Chiangmai, it helps to know a bit about transportation within the city...Taxis are available at the airport, with a price of 150 baht to most destinations.

I found an English-speaking taxi driver (named Panchai, as I recall) who I hired by the day. The rate was quite reasonable. He knew the area quite well, and I also gained some insight into Thai culture. By the 3rd day we had established a rapport and Panchai took me to dinner with a Thai family for a unique and very pleasant opportunity to interact with the locals.

Don't display your anger, because the Thais will think you uncultured, and ranting will get you nowhere. Smile and think "no problem". Thais do not like confrontation, so getting angry will get you nowhere in Thailand.

When I started to get upset in a situation, I would use the phrase "mai pen rai" (no bid deal!) Thai's really appreciated hearing that, and it helped me temper my reactions. I never want to be that "ugly American".

Let’s say you arrive at your hotel and want a nice, hot shower or bath. You turn on the tap and find the hot water is not working. What most people would do is call the front desk and complain, and if you are tired, you might raise your voice a little, saying, “The hot water doesn’t work—what’s the problem?” It might take a long time before someone comes to check it out, if at all. What you should do is say, “I don’t know how to get the hot water turned on in my room; would you please have someone show me?” Someone will come to your room within a minute or two to check it out.

I had a situation similar to this...I could not get the hotel staff to return as scheduled some of my clothes I requested they press (I know, there are bigger problems in the world!!!). I meekly took my complaint to the front desk. Eventually the clothes, of course, showed up. I stopped short of making a scene, but still felt bad. I proceeded to thank the people who I had complained to, hoping they would not get in any trouble.


Many visitors to Chiangmai enjoy taking trips outside the city. We recommend these trips highly...

[B]I had the pleasure of visiting Doi Inthanon, Doi Suthep, and hilltribe and Long Neck villages (can be arranged by the hotel in Mae Hong Son), along with taking an elephant ride and visiting a beautiful garden.

An English-speaking travel agent can be invaluable in arranging local and regional travel. I met an agent who was a wealth of knowlegde on Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Loas border, and even Koh Samui travel.B]








To see a home video of my wife and I at Warorot Market in Chiang Mai see
http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/WM.wmv
about 7 minutes long, streams well with I.E. and Windows Media Player.

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

AAJetMan mentions visiting the Long Neck Karen. There are certain places I recommend not to visit. The main one being to see the Paduang Long Neck Karen. This is one of the worst forms of tourism in Thailand. Any tour operator who does this tour has no consideration for the culture or the Karen People. Here is the real story.

The original custom is that only a girl born on a Wednesday during a full moon could wear the rings around her neck. Now because of the large number of tourists visiting these villages all the girls are wearing the rings as it is big money. A Photograph of 1 girls is as much as 500 baht.

Not only that but the villagers are kept in a compound surrounded by high walls so no one can see in. They are not allowed out of the camp so everyone just sits around waiting for the tourists. It costs at least 250 baht to get into the village which most goes to the tour operator.

Villagers have died in these compounds. These people deserve more than this. Here is a short article from the Nation newspaper on the seriousness of the problem.

MAE HONG SON- A provincial court in Mae Hong Son yesterday opened the trial of two Thai men on charges relating to the detention and death of a
long necked ethnic Padaung women, who, along with over 30 others of the same ethnicity ,was trafficked into Thailand from Burma two years ago.

Paduang- commonly known here as the long-necked hill people because the women normally wear brass necklaces,the number of which increases over the years-has been a strong tourist attraction in Mae Hong Son.

The group of detained Padaung had been lured and trafficked from their home village in northeastern Burma into Thailand by a Thai Karen agent, who had pledged to take them to visit their relatives in Mae Hong Son.

According to the rescued Padaung, the woman, a mother of two, died of exhaustion and heartbreak as she had been long separated from her children who remained in Burma.

:( Think of the children. A girl born in the mid 1980s when the first Paduang were kidnapped to Thailand now sits at home trapped in her surroundings. She has no normal social life or education, no outside friends and no hope for a future except being looked at by tourists taking pictures.
Please boycott any agency that wants to take you to see the Paduang Long Neck Karen.


Alternative:
A better alternative is visit a real hill tribe village. Many wonderful hill tribe villages can be accessed by vehicle, long tail boat or trekking. If your up for a good hike then trekking is for you.

I´m on my way to Tri Yaan Na Ros on Saturday and will post from there.

A Photograph of 1 girls is as much as 500 baht.



There was no charge for taking photographs. Postcards cost about 15baht.YEMV.

Well, there's a coincidence - we'll be there too. For 3 nights. Still deciding where to stay since Rachamankha is full. Might try Tri Yaan Na Ros as allthai suggests.

More coincidence: We're booked into the Rachamankha! :D

More coincidence: We're booked into the Rachamankha! :D
Now, now... it's not nice to gloat! I've tried every site I know and the hotel directly, with no luck. :(

Let us know when you plan to be in Chiang Mai and we will call Rachamankha and see if we can get a room for you.

Randy and Ning in Chiang Mai

Gee, that's very generous, Allthai! We're going to be there from the 23rd of December for 3 nights and again just for the night of the 29th. I have booked the Yaang Come Village for the first 3 nights and the Royal Princess for the final night. Unless you think I've made a ghastly mistake (I am a bit alarmed by the murals above the beds at YCV), maybe I'll just stick to those and not trouble you.

But thanks a ton for the offer! ^

Gee, that's very generous, Allthai! We're going to be there from the 23rd of December for 3 nights and again just for the night of the 29th. I have booked the Yaang Come Village for the first 3 nights and the Royal Princess for the final night. Unless you think I've made a ghastly mistake (I am a bit alarmed by the murals above the beds at YCV), maybe I'll just stick to those and not trouble you.

But thanks a ton for the offer! ^

I agree the murals above the beds at YCV are a little much. These should have been framed and put elsewhere such as in the walkways. The murals show traditional village life hundreds of years ago. They were being nice in the painting as just 50 years ago most women went topless. I have seen old black and white photos of people in Chiang Mai back then. Also their restaurant has little in the way of Thai food and not very good. It seams they are more into Euopean tourists staying there and feel they don't like Thai food. This place is new so maybe in a year or two they can get the Thai food thing worked out.

The Royal Princes is very busy and noisy out front. Make sure you get a room in the back as the guy in the front who parks cars keeps blowing his whistle most of the night. The rooms are smaller than I am used to but OK for a night. For that type of hotel I would rather go for The Chiang Mai Empress or The Chiang Mai Plaza which is right in front of YCV.

My wife and I just did a Video of Wat Prathat Doi Suthep temple overlooking Chiang Mai yesterday. I will have it posted on the internet sometime today. You will be able to see it at http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/DS.wmv

Have fun,
Randy and Ning

Thanks for the tips! And the video posting - Doi Suthep looks awesome.

I liked your video on the Karen village people. It was interesting. I've only been to Chiang Mai once, but never went out of the city. The farthest out of the city I went was to the zoo! :)

I liked your video on the Karen village people. It was interesting. I've only been to Chiang Mai once, but never went out of the city. The farthest out of the city I went was to the zoo! :)

Thank you for your kind words about the video of the Karen village. This was taken in Doi Inthanon National Park. For those of you who also want to view the video go to http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/DI.wmv

Enjoy
Randy and Ning

I'm just finishing up a four day stay at Tri Yaan. It's lovely. Here are some tips since the hotel seems to have a lot of buzz in this forum.

1. Get a room upstairs if you can.
2. Ask for mango and sticky rice for breakfast.
3. There is no dinner, so be prepared to go out each evening.
4. Walk the one minute to the main road and flag a song tao or tuk-tuk. Cost to anywhere in CM proper should be between 30-80 baat.
5. Chill out and enjoy!

I returned from Chiang Mai last week, and hadn't been there in about 10 years. It is now Thailand's 2nd largest city, and is quite noisy, dirty, polluted and above all touristy. The night market has also changed greatly, and in my opinion is no longer a good deal compared with shopping in the rest of Thailand. The city is nonetheless interesting. Perhaps I would have enjoyed it more to be at one of the newer resorts away from the city.

I returned from Chiang Mai last week, and hadn't been there in about 10 years. It is now Thailand's 2nd largest city, and is quite noisy, dirty, polluted and above all touristy. The night market has also changed greatly, and in my opinion is no longer a good deal compared with shopping in the rest of Thailand. The city is nonetheless interesting. Perhaps I would have enjoyed it more to be at one of the newer resorts away from the city.

Chiang Mai has been going through one of the worst floods in it's history. The big one was in Aug. then another in Sept. and another big one just last month. They are still in the clean up mode but should be finished by this weekend in time for the Loi Krathong festival. They are replanting the flower gardens all over the city that were washed away. Volunters are scrubbing the dry dirt from the streets at night that was deposited by the overflowing Ping River during the floods.

A new bus service just started last week with new air conditioned vehicles and many old smoke polluting "songteaws" have been taken off the streets. A new second ring road around the city also just opened so vehicles can now travel from south of the airpot to the Mae Rim road north of town without stopping at a traffic light or going through the city center.

The night bazaars in Thailand never appealed to me either in Chiang Mai, Phuket or Bangkok. I like the walking handicraft market on Rachadamgnern road from Thapae Gate to Wat Prasing every Sunday from 2 PM to 11 PM. They block off the street and no vehicles are allowed. All the temples on this road (a lot) have food venders selling delicious North Thailand dishes.

If you stay away from the normal touristy areas of Chang Klan and Loi Kroh roads you will see a different Chiang Mai. Nice small boutique hotels done in Thai style are poping up all over the old city. These are great alternatives from the large high rise hotels crammed with tour groups near the night bazaar.

This is all part of a project that started two years ago to refresh Chiang Mai and make it a better place to visit and live.

We love it here.

Randy and Ning

I just had to post this as it was one of the most spectacular things I have every seen at the festival. Here in North Thailand the Loi Krathong Festival is much different than anywhere in the Kingdom. In the small town of Mae Jo north of Chiang Mai they started the festival on Saturday night by launching hot air balloons called "Khom Loy". I went with my wife and friends and took this short video. We are not talking about a few Khom Loy but thousands upon thousands all at the same time. You got to see this.

http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/LK.wmv

I also did another video at the summit and hiking at Doi Inthanon National Park while bird watching.

http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/DI2.wmv

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

My wife and I will be in Chiang Mai for the 1st time this Mar. I was thingking of booking into the Duangthawan hotel for the close proximity to the night market. Is this a mistake? The other option is the Chiang Mai Plaza. They both cost relatively the same. However, I have just discovered the little gems that a lot of you members have stayed in. I am having second thoughts of staying in the big hotels now. What are your advices for the 1st two hotels as to particular rooms or floor to ask for. I have also heard good things about the River Ping Palace along with their excellent Restaurant. Any input will be appreciated very much.

Thankyou

I don't find the Night Market area all that attractive or interesting during daylight hours and, as has been mentioned elsewhere, the Night Market itself has become even more of a tourist trap than it used to be. This last trip I stayed in the Thapae Gate area and liked it a lot, and the Thapae Sunday market is worth scheduling your Chiang Mai visit around. The Duangtawan is only about a 10-minute walk from there. We stayed at the Montri Hotel, which I thought was a bargain at 800 baht a night with a room overlooking the Thapae Gate. (The rooms on the back of the hotel, however, have a very unlovely view.) My Thai friend went crazy over the Thai food at the Montri's Triple N Restaurant - quite good and not at all expensive. (The breakfast prices, however, are a rip-off compared to what you can find within a 5-minute walk.)

I don't find the Night Market area all that attractive or interesting during daylight hours and, as has been mentioned elsewhere, the Night Market itself has become even more of a tourist trap than it used to be. This last trip I stayed in the Thapae Gate area and liked it a lot, and the Thapae Sunday market is worth scheduling your Chiang Mai visit around. The Duangtawan is only about a 10-minute walk from there. We stayed at the Montri Hotel, which I thought was a bargain at 800 baht a night with a room overlooking the Thapae Gate. (The rooms on the back of the hotel, however, have a very unlovely view.) My Thai friend went crazy over the Thai food at the Montri's Triple N Restaurant - quite good and not at all expensive. (The breakfast prices, however, are a rip-off compared to what you can find within a 5-minute walk.)

Your right Rampo the Sunday walking market is much better. It opens around 2 PM and shuts down around 10 PM. It extends from Thapae Gate west for about 6 blocks on Rajdumnern Road. They block off the street from traffic where most of the real Thai handicraft vendors display their goods. They are about 8 temples along this road and on all the temple grounds you will find real delecious food.

Some freinds came to visit from Australia and we went to a Khantoke dinner and show. This is not just for tourists as the Northern
Thai people have been enjoying the Khantoke Dinner for centuries. Here is a short 6 minute video of the Khantoke dinner with
my wife and friends. http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/Khantoke.wmv

There are also more excellent small Thai boutique hotels opening up in the city which are wonderful. You get experience the real feel of Thailand, which is a nice alternative to the big concrete hotels.

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

I don't find the Night Market area all that attractive or interesting during daylight hours and, as has been mentioned elsewhere, the Night Market itself has become even more of a tourist trap than it used to be. This last trip I stayed in the Thapae Gate area and liked it a lot, and the Thapae Sunday market is worth scheduling your Chiang Mai visit around. The Duangtawan is only about a 10-minute walk from there. We stayed at the Montri Hotel, which I thought was a bargain at 800 baht a night with a room overlooking the Thapae Gate. (The rooms on the back of the hotel, however, have a very unlovely view.) My Thai friend went crazy over the Thai food at the Montri's Triple N Restaurant - quite good and not at all expensive. (The breakfast prices, however, are a rip-off compared to what you can find within a 5-minute walk.)


Best consise advice I've seen for a while.
IMHO the Old City 'within the gates' holds most of the Charm of Chiang Mai.

allthai I've enjoyed all of your posts contributions regarding the north of Thailand too ^

I'm sorry, but I have to do this...

I was in Thailand last June. My family was in Chiang Mai for 10 days. We stayed at the Four Seasons outside. We went into the city twice: once for the night bazaar and once with a tour guide to see the sites. We really like to get out (we didn't love Thailand because we didn't like mostly being in resorts). However, we found those to be the two worst things we did in our time around Chiang Mai. The sites are not nearly as good as those in BKK, and the night bazaar is really nothing special. Personally, I could go to Thailand again and pass the city of Chiang Mai 100%.

That being said, the Four Seasons there is phenomenal. The rooms, landscaping, service, spa, and restaurants are all first rate. I highly recommend it, especially as a base to see Chiang Mai from. (Go to the Luxury Hotels Forum for more information).

I'm sorry, but I have to do this...

I was in Thailand last June. My family was in Chiang Mai for 10 days. We stayed at the Four Seasons outside. We went into the city twice: once for the night bazaar and once with a tour guide to see the sites. We really like to get out (we didn't love Thailand because we didn't like mostly being in resorts). However, we found those to be the two worst things we did in our time around Chiang Mai. The sites are not nearly as good as those in BKK, and the night bazaar is really nothing special. Personally, I could go to Thailand again and pass the city of Chiang Mai 100%.

That being said, the Four Seasons there is phenomenal. The rooms, landscaping, service, spa, and restaurants are all first rate. I highly recommend it, especially as a base to see Chiang Mai from. (Go to the Luxury Hotels Forum for more information).


The tours are only as good as your guide or tour operator. If you only went to the Night Bazaar and saw so called "sights" you didn't see Chiang Mai. You were probably taken to the major tourist places with little or no culture. That is one of the problems when booking a tour with the high end Luxury resorts in Chiang Mai. All our friends who have come to visit us here over the last 16 years keep coming back and absolutely love it. Sorry you didn't enjoy it.

My wife and I stayed at the Four Seasons three years ago on our aniversary for 3 nights. Yes it was nice but way overpriced now that we look back at what we got for the buck. We should of spent all that money on something practical like a trip to Australia.

Randy and Ning

I am in Chiang Mai at least once, often twice a year on business.
I have been staying at the Sheraton, used to be Westin Chiang Mai.
My father and I are going in January and I am thinking to stay at a different hotel this time as the Sheraton is not what it used to be.
Does anyone have any experience with the AMARI RINCOME Hotel in Chiang Mai?
Thank You.
I have been going to Chiang Mai for the last 5 years and I too absolutely love it there, the people, the atmosphere, the food.

The tours are only as good as your guide or tour operator. If you only went to the Night Bazaar and saw so called "sights" you didn't see Chiang Mai. You were probably taken to the major tourist places with little or no culture. That is one of the problems when booking a tour with the high end Luxury resorts in Chiang Mai. All our friends who have come to visit us here over the last 16 years keep coming back and absolutely love it. Sorry you didn't enjoy it.

My wife and I stayed at the Four Seasons three years ago on our aniversary for 3 nights. Yes it was nice but way overpriced now that we look back at what we got for the buck. We should of spent all that money on something practical like a trip to Australia.

Randy and Ning


I agree. That was probably part of it. We didn't feel like we were really in the city. However, we just didn't find the city so much fun. BTW, our tour guide was really not great; he was booked through the FS.

I do however have to disagree about your assessment of the resort. I found it to be a great place - probably the best resort I have every visited. Way better than anything in Hawai'i or Europe. Better than Amanpuri. Only the ryokans in Japan came close for me. And, while it is expensive, I didn't feel it overpriced. To get something even remotely that quality in the US, Europe, Japan, etc, it would cost at least 800USD per night, and chances are the service (and subsequently the experience) wouldn't be half what was offered there.

I agree. That was probably part of it. We didn't feel like we were really in the city. However, we just didn't find the city so much fun. BTW, our tour guide was really not great; he was booked through the FS.

I do however have to disagree about your assessment of the resort. I found it to be a great place - probably the best resort I have every visited. Way better than anything in Hawai'i or Europe. Better than Amanpuri. Only the ryokans in Japan came close for me. And, while it is expensive, I didn't feel it overpriced. To get something even remotely that quality in the US, Europe, Japan, etc, it would cost at least 800USD per night, and chances are the service (and subsequently the experience) wouldn't be half what was offered there.

The Four Seasons resort is excellent I agree. We enjoyed their excellent service and facilities however we are the kind of people that like to get out and experience the surrounding and not just stay at a resort. We found ourselves doing nothing most of the time, which we found boring. I think that was because we live here, you know seen it been there done that.

Randy and Ning

Hi all and Happy New Year,

I have another streaming video to share. This time of a traditional North Thailand Khantoke Dinner with Thai music and dance.
This is not just for tourists as the Northern Thai people have been enjoying the Khantoke Dinner for centuries. Below is the link to the 6 minute streaming video of the Khantoke dinner with my wife and friends.

http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/Khantoke.wmv

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

I have been visiting Chiang Mai since 1988 and, during that time, have stayed at the following hotels. In 1988, the best hotel in the city was considered to be the Chiang Mai Orchid Hotel.

Chiang Mai Orchid Hotel
Westin (now Sheraton) Hotel
Empress Hotel
Plaza Hotel
Rydges Hotel
Royal Princess Hotel
Diamond Riverside Hotel (don't!)
Royal Lanna Hotel

I cannot, absolutely cannot, imagine anyone paying 6x or 8x the rate for a room at a "resort/luxury" hotel in Chiang Mai, over the rate charged at the Sheraton Hotel for a very nice room and a great buffet breakfast! Even the Empress Hotel, at $29 a night on www.asiarooms.com, provides a very acceptable room and nice buffet breakfast.

The only hotel in the list above that I would not recommend would be the Diamond Riverside, which I found to have very unmaintained rooms and a
less-than-welcoming front desk staff.

I agree Bill.

Next time you come to Chiang mai you might want to check out the new inexpensive boutique resorts in the center of the city. These nice small, romantic accommodations, some as small as 8 rooms, have pools in a garden setting, very quiet, massage and spa treatments on request with excellent Thai food and service. This year several have been built and opened in and near the old city. They have high walls around them to keep out the noise of the city in the same manner the temples do. A nice change from the big high rise hotels.
The price range is from $40 to $125 USD per night double with breakfast. Not as cheap as the larger hotels but not a out of this world price either. Our friends who visit us here in Chiang Mai enjoy the peace and quiet staying at these places and they can walk out of the compound into the busy heart of the city.

Randy and Ning

Randy: Thanks for the suggestion. As you know, so many new hotels have opened up in Chiang Mai in the past 10 years, offering many times the variety compared to when I first visited there in 1988. That year, the Chiang Mai Orchid essentially stood alone at its location, and offered beautiful views of the countryside and mountains from rooms at the back of the hotel. Now, taller buildings surround the Orchid on at least two sides and completely block any worthwhile view. Such a shame.

I enjoy staying at different hotels when I visit both Bangkok and Chiang Mai unlike, I'd assume, the majority of visitors, who I'd think prefer staying at a single hotel in the same town. Don't mind moving between them. Over the years, I've probably stayed at 18 hotels in Bangkok and out by the airport, in the $30-$65 price range. My main disappointment there was the Baiyoke Suite Hotel, with maybe the Tower Inn running a close second. Those website photos can sure be misleading!

As I inferred in my first post, really don't think you can get a better valued package (quality of hotel/room/breakfast), in Chiang Mai, than the Sheraton.

Your right Bill. The Sheraton used to be the Westin so if you ever stayed at a Westin you already know what the rooms are like. Yes the Sheraton is a very fine hotel and the price is right. The only thing is it has no feeling of being in Thailand. What I like about the small Thai boutique hotels is you have the Thai charm and atmosphere in a quiet garden setting.

Here is a good deal for free airfare Bangkok - Chiang Mai - Bangkok via Air Asia. I don't know if I should post travel deals here but if it's not appropreate I am sure it may be removed.

http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/freeflights.htm

Randy and Ning

Bill, Randy, Ning, et al,

I'll be returning to Chiang Mai in March and need to book a nice (clean, quiet comfortable) but affordable hotel and could really use your expertise.

I have previously stayed at Ratchamankha (great boutique hotel, but not in my budget for this trip) and Chiang Mai Plaza (room was a little worn and depressing, but would consider this hotel again).

I do not want the Sheraton because of the out of the way location. Would prefer the old city or night market/riverside areas. Price range: $50 - $60 US per night max.

I don't mind large hotels as long as the rooms are not old/worn/dirty and noisy, which seems to be an issue in CM for some people in a lot of online reviews I've been reading.

What would you recommend?

Hi John,

Try these.

http://www.karinthipvillage.com

http://www.puripunn.com

This place has murals painted on the walls above the beds and was told it
scared kids.
http://www.yaangcome.com

http://www.tamarindvillage.com/

This site is in Thai but the Owner Mr Pornpol speaks english well so you can fax them, no worries. Fax. 66-53-414-126
http://www.bura-rumpa.com/

If you book Tamrind Village make sure you do well in advance. It is very popular and located on the street that has the walking market on Sundays in the old city.

Randy and Ning

A Thai friend arranged a room for me at the Montri Hotel, which overlooks the Thapae Gate. (Definitely insist on a room on the front of the hotel - the back view is of a construction site.) It's a typical Thai business hotel - not too much in terms of Thai touches but clean and comfortable - and wound up costing around $20 (700 baht) a night. The hotel restaurant (Triple N or something like that) is also quite good. My Thai friend thought the food excellent and was not much more expensive than the local Thai restaurants with much less ambience. Breakfasts, on the other hand, were overpriced and a short walk in the area will reveal much cheaper alternatives. The Montri was one of the best-valued hotels I've run across in Thailand.

Bill, Randy, Ning, et al,

I'll be returning to Chiang Mai in March and need to book a nice (clean, quiet comfortable) but affordable hotel and could really use your expertise.

I do not want the Sheraton because of the out of the way location. Would prefer the old city or night market/riverside areas. Price range: $50 - $60 US per night max.

What would you recommend?

John: Sorry for the delayed reply, but haven't opened up this board since my last post.

Not sure exactly which area of Chiang Mai you prefer to be housed at/near, since you are dismissing the Sheraton due to its location. Bottom line is that I can only speak for the hotels that I have stayed at, as listed earlier, although I have looked at rooms at a few more. Let me add a few comments about the hotels where I've stayed:

Chiang Mai Orchid Hotel (Have only stayed here twice. It is also quite out of the way in the NW sector of the city. Funny story - On my first visit in 1988, my old traveling buddy and I came down for the complimentary breakfast, and sat down and started chowing down at a buffet in a large room. We later found out that was a private business buffet, and we were supposed to have had a limited selection breakfast in the restaurant, instead)
Westin (now Sheraton) Hotel (To me, provides the nicest room package for the most reasonable rate. WONDERFUL breakfast buffet and well furnished, oversized room and bathroom. IT is true that lobby and staff seem more business than Thai-like. But still, for as little as $59 inclusive, double, can't be beat)
Empress Hotel (My old standby. Stayed here a number of times over the years, and usually walk from hotel to night market. Rooms are certainly acceptable for the price paid and buffet breakfast is nice, although often crowded. Amazed at the rose flower arangements in the lobby)
Plaza Hotel (Stayed one time at least 14 years ago. Closer to night market than Empress. From what I recall, room was OK, but buffet only average, and wait staff were "stuffy")
Rydges Hotel (Stayed here last visit in 2003. Newer hotel located right on the moat surrounding the Old City. Rooms were clean, but kinda "sterile", from what I recall. Morning buffet average and eating area rather small)
Royal Princess Hotel (Right at the night market, so noise may be a problem? Stayed here several times, both before and after the makeover of a few years back. Rooms now are also "sterile"/Japanese-like, and buffet is average and seating area small. Not much of a lobby, but the musicians that play there evenings are a nice touch)
Diamond Riverside Hotel (Don't, absolutely don't stay here! Made that mistake about four or five years ago. Not only is it north of the night market, out of the way, at the time I stayed the property was terribly maintained, and front desk staff was not at all pleasant. Think I only paid internet rate of $30, but this was an overpayment when you considered the other hotels, i.e., Princess, that can also be gotten for around that room rate)
Royal Lanna Hotel Is an acceptable hotel right by the night market, but felt it was a half notch below the Princess. Mr room's floor was tile instead of carpet, which I prefer. Breakfast buffet was average.)

Just some of my thoughts. Since it has been a few years since I stayed at some of these hotels, things may have changed/improved.

Thanks to you all for the responses.

Randy and Ning, those hotels are quite nice but unfortunately out of my price range for this trip.

I think I've narrowed it down to the Empress vs. Central Duangtawan. Both seem to have consistently positive (although not extraordinary) reviews around the web. And deluxe rooms at both are around $50 per night.

Imperial Mae Ping has also been recommended, and I remember that it looked nice from the outside. But reviews I've read are mixed.

Thanks to you all for the responses.

Randy and Ning, those hotels are quite nice but unfortunately out of my price range for this trip.

I think I've narrowed it down to the Empress vs. Central Duangtawan. Both seem to have consistently positive (although not extraordinary) reviews around the web. And deluxe rooms at both are around $50 per night.

Imperial Mae Ping has also been recommended, and I remember that it looked nice from the outside. But reviews I've read are mixed.

The Empress has a better buffett breakfast and more of a Thai feel to it. Excellent staff.

The Duangtawan has just been purchased by the Central chain of hotels and are working out a few bugs. Our church is having its services at the Duangtawan every Sunday until Feb when we move into our own building.

I'd go with the Empress.

Randy and Ning

Allthai,
Yikes, what's wrong with CD? I am committed into staying there for 7 nights. Got a really good deal for 1250 B taxes and breakfast included. I thought that the only negative thing is the notoriously slow elevators. Since you are there every week, would you update me on whether the elevator issue is fixed.
Thanks.

Yes the elevators are slow and some don't smell very good either. This was our last sunday here as the services we paid for were terrible. We asked for coffee and snacks and the cakes and pastry were old, probably left over form a lunch buffett. The staff seems to not enjoy their work, not happy much of the time. The rooms are fine and location good. There are other hotels for the same price and I feel they are much better when it comes to service and Thai hospitality the Kingdom is famous for. The Chiang Mai Empress for one.

Randy and Ning

Allthai,
Yikes, what's wrong with CD? I am committed into staying there for 7 nights. Got a really good deal for 1250 B taxes and breakfast included. I thought that the only negative thing is the notoriously slow elevators. Since you are there every week, would you update me on whether the elevator issue is fixed.
Thanks.

Allthai,

I've just gone through the whole thread and watched your videos. Great job! How long have you lived in Chiang Mai/Thailand?

My wife and I are taking our 2 daughters (9&11) to Chiang Mai for 4 nights in April. We settled on the Sheraton given the confusion of trying to get connecting rooms. For us, it seems like a good location, away from the night bazaar is fine. Do you see any issues or have any suggestions? That day market you showed in your first video looks like a perfect alternative to the Night Bazaar which I wasn't too keen on. Thanks.

Allthai,

I've just gone through the whole thread and watched your videos. Great job! How long have you lived in Chiang Mai/Thailand?

My wife and I are taking our 2 daughters (9&11) to Chiang Mai for 4 nights in April. We settled on the Sheraton given the confusion of trying to get connecting rooms. For us, it seems like a good location, away from the night bazaar is fine. Do you see any issues or have any suggestions? That day market you showed in your first video looks like a perfect alternative to the Night Bazaar which I wasn't too keen on. Thanks.

Thanks for your nice comment about the videos. I will be doing another one this weekend of the Chiang Mai Flower Festival and post it here next week.

I have been living here for about 17 years now.

If connecting rooms are a problem the Chiang Mai Empress is the favorite among our friends that visit us who request the same.

If you are here on a Saturday the walking market on Walai Road and the walking Market on Rajadamngern Road on Sunday should not be missed. They are both open form 2 Pm to around 10 PM. Sunset is a good time to visit.

Wararot market in the daytime is a large traditional Thai market you will enjoy.

Will you be here for the Songkran Festival (Thai new Year) April 12 - 15? This is a water throwing free for all so be prepared.

Cheers,
Randy and Ning

We arrive Chiang Mai on the 18th and leave on the 21st. I figured we'd skip Chiang Mai for the New Year given the likelihood of larger crowds at the places we'll be going to. We'll be in Bangkok and Siem Reap for the New Year period. I'm sure it won't be the same. It sounds like a kind of party that never ends, so I'm thinking we'll still get a little wet.

I'll check out the Empress as an alternative.

Thanks

We arrive Chiang Mai on the 18th and leave on the 21st. I figured we'd skip Chiang Mai for the New Year given the likelihood of larger crowds at the places we'll be going to. We'll be in Bangkok and Siem Reap for the New Year period. I'm sure it won't be the same. It sounds like a kind of party that never ends, so I'm thinking we'll still get a little wet.

I'll check out the Empress as an alternative.

Thanks

By the time you get there on the 18th everyone will be burned out already and the festival over. Since you will be in Chiang Mai in the middle of the week it should be pretty quiet. Traffic can be a little too much on the weekend with Thai visitors from Bangkok. Too bad you will miss out in the walking markets on Saturday and Sunday. If you can ry to visit Doi Inthanon National Park to get away from the hot city. It is the highest mountain in Thailand and the temperature will be a nice 24 degrees C. or lower compared to 40+ around the rest of north Thailand. Anyway enjoy your stay.

Randy and Ning

Randy,
I'm starting to think I need to come back and see YOUR Thailand. We have our plans pretty well set, but you may be hearing more from me. Thanks.

Can someone recommend a good place for a special Khantoke Dinner in Chiang Mia.

Many Thanks, Anastasia

Can someone recommend a good place for a special Khantoke Dinner in Chiang Mia.

Many Thanks, Anastasia

The two best places are Khum Khantoke and the Old Chiang Mai Culture center.

The Culture Center has seating on the floor or at a table. I you sit at a table you are far from the dancers. Khum Khantoke has a big box hole in the floor where you can still sit on the floor but your legs are underneath the table. This feels like sitting in a chair or on a bench, much mre comfortable and you are very close to the dancers. The Culture Center has a little bit better food but the music and performances are not as good as Khum Khantoke.

The video I took was at Khum Khantoke which you can see at http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/Khantoke.wmv

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

Hi everyone,

We had a great time at the Chiang Mai Flower festival Parade Saturday. The parade lasted about two hours and was loads of fun. We found a place to view the parade where there were few spectators so made the picture taking easy.

This festival happens every year on the first weekend in Feb. with the parade being on Saturday. Anyway we hope you enjoy the streaming Video (8 minutes). Click on the link below.

The Chiang Mai Flower Festival Parade Video (http://www.all-thailand-exp.com/images/Flower Festival Parade.wmv)

Randy and Ning

Randy and Ning,

You are great ambassadors of goodwill. Thanks again for another video.

Randy and Ning,

You are great ambassadors of goodwill. Thanks again for another video.

Thank you Naharragt for your kinds words. This gives me the insperation to keep writing about this Wondeful City and it's people.

Here is a subject most people know little about and my Thai wife and I feel must be addressed.

Dating and Romance Thai Style

Although this article is written mainly for the guys, the ladies will learn a lot of what and what not to do in public with your friends or mate of the opposite sex. The men will also learn the real way courtship works in Thailand and why.

The first thing to remember is that girls can touch the guys but the guys CANNOT touch the girls. So if you are walking down the street DO NOT hold hands. It is OK for the lady to put her arm and hand around the man’s arm but that’s about as far as it should go.

There is a reason for this. If a girl lets a man touch, hold hands or put his arm around her the Thais believe the girl is easy, lose or maybe a prostitute. If you look at the way girls act in the bars it is easy to understand that any traditional, well educated Thai girl would not want to be seen as such a person. Thailand is a class society and the girls working in the bars are part of the lower class. Any well-educated and successful Thai man knows this also and would not think of marring a girl of this status. Girls that work in bars are for having fun in the short term and that is as far as it goes. Both Thai men and women know this but for some strange reason many male visitors to Thailand just don’t get it.
I will get back to this subject later.

Meeting and Making Friends with a Thai Lady.

Many people who have met my wife and I ask where I found such a wonderful person, well it wasn’t easy. First of all you have to have time and lots of it. The best place to meet someone is where she works (not a bar). There are plenty of well-educated, nice traditional Thai girls working in restaurants, shopping malls, as tour guides and hotels. This is excellent as they have a product to sell you and you want to buy. This breaks the ice so you can have a conversation about something you both have in common. Be polite and look sharp (no t-shirt and shorts). If she is working in a restaurant order your food, or in a shop make a purchase and hang around a little while. Don’t ask any personal questions at this stage just small talk. If she is interested in you she will ask the questions for sure.

Now wait a day or so and then return. Tell her you were just passing by and wanted to stop and visit for a while. Engage in small talk again and answer her questions. Take your time and stick around a while. She now knows you are interested in her so the questions will start coming that are more personal. You can now ask a few small personal questions such as how many people in her family, where she is from, where she went to school etc, but not too many at this stage. When it is time to leave give her a nice big smile and look into her eyes as you walk away.

Return again in a day or two. Engage again in a little small talk then ask if she would like to enjoy a meal with you at her convenience and any place she chooses. She might say yes and she might say no. If she says no she wants to see if you will return again or just never come back. Don’t worry she will say yes sooner or later so just be patient.



The First Date

When she does say yes she will most probably ask if she can bring some friends along or persons in her family. This is a Thai tradition when first dating and nothing else. Many westerners do not understand this and think she just wants a free meal for her and her friends or family, not so.

Your date wants her friends and family to check you out and will ask what they think about you later when they are alone. This is kind of like a job interview in front of board members. Don't ask her family or friends any questions just let them ask you. You are the one being interviewed here. Also if you talk too much to her friends or another female in the family everyone will think you are flirting with them, not a good idea. Keep focused on your date.

Another thing you will be tested in is how you spend your money. This starts from the first date. If you ask her where she wants to eat more than likely she will choose an expensive restaurant. You reply should be to suggest a restaurant that is nice but a little cheaper. A simple restaurant is a no-no just as much as an expensive one is. Thais love shopping malls so eating at a Pizza Hut for lunch or dinner is fine (not a Sizzler Steak House). Thais are very thrifty when it comes to spending money, they know how to get the most for the Thai Baht and she is looking to see if you are the same. Suggest Pizza Hut for the “all you can eat night” as it is a very good bargain and she will take notice of this.

After the first date

Later on in dating you will probably want to purchase a gift for her. This will be another money test. One example is when I was dating my wife, before we got married, I noticed she needed a good watch. We went to the mall and a reputable watch dealer. Now I could of bought a very expensive one but here is what I did. I ask her which one she liked and of course she picked out a very expensive one (remember this is just a test). I then asked the clerk to see a much cheaper one, which she showed us. I told my date that the cheap watches were not any good. We then looked at medium price watches and she found one she liked and I made the purchase. Now here is the lesson in all this.

If a Thai girl convinces you to make an expensive purchase when it is not necessary she thinks you spend way too much money. If you make a cheap purchase she will think you are stingy. If you make the right purchase she will know you know how to spend your money wisely. She will never marry a man who throws money away or a man that has no money or is cheap.

Asking for money

Here is one trap most western men fall into and again this is just another test. My wife never did this but I was one step ahead of her so she didn’t have to. At some time in the courtship she will say something like “My parents need a new roof for their house as it leaks when it rains” or “We have no indoor plumbing in our house in the village can you help us” or maybe “My fathers motorbike broke down and he needs a new one”. Lets think about this one carefully. Ok, she now knows you might love her or at least like her a lot or you wouldn’t be spending this much time with her. Now she is performing the biggest test of all, seeing how stupid you are.

Most of the western men I know would give her the money because they want to help. This is the biggest mistake you can do. DO NOT give her any money for anything!!!
Your reply should be “Let’s go to your parents house and see what they need and maybe I can help”. This is not only wise but also what she wants to hear. She will have one of two replies. If her parents really don’t need the money she will just laugh and probably give you a hug and change the subject, no more said for now. Don’t bring up the subject again remember this is just a test. If they do need the money for the purposes she mentioned, she will say OK.

Now one of three things will happen. If she just wanted you for your money she will see you saw right through her objective and will avoid you. Another is she will take you to her parents house and you will see her parents don’t need anything from you and that this was just a test. Third you will visit her village and parents and she what they need so you can help them. Now this is very important and happens mainly with bar girls. If you just give her the money she asks for she will take it for sure. The only need is her greed and she will probably use the money for a party with her friends or pay a gambling dept. Not only that but she will keep asking for more as long as you keep giving it to her. You are now her cash cow and remember she didn’t take it from you. You were more than willing to give it to her. I hear many stories from western men who say, “this girl stoled my money”. No you were stupid enough to give it to her without checking to see if her stories were true. Remember these are tests to see if you are wise, thrifty, kind, considerate or just plain stupid. A traditional Thai girl would not take the money if she doesn't have a real need for the things she mentioned but just smile or laugh as I mentioned previously.

About the third date and beyond.

After she consults with her siblings and/or friends and they like you then she will go on to the next step. If they don’t like you, forget it. Thais won’t rely on their own feelings when it comes to getting serious with a potential mate. What their close personal relations say is most important when it comes to making decisions.

Again you are at a restaurant with her and probably a Thai restaurant but this time alone with her. You ask her to make the dinner choice of dishes for you and her. Once the plates arrive she will put the rice on your plate for you. Here is where you find out if she is serious about you and falling in love. She will take small portions from the serving plates and put it on your plate. She will fill up your water or beer glass when it gets low. She will keep doing this until the meal is over. She is trying to show that she wants to take care of you. Thai women are trained by their mother on how to take care of men and children. I don’t know why but every time I just think I am thirsty a glass of water appears. My wife even knows when I am getting hungry. It’s like she knows my every need just at the right time.

Getting Serious

One thing to remember is a Thai girl will almost NEVER tell you she loves you. She shows her love by taking care of you. Don’t for a moment think she doesn’t love you because she doesn’t say it. Actions are what counts here and words mean very little when it come to love and romance in Thai culture.

Thais also love to give and receive gifts. These gifts should be personal and something you or they truly need. If you want to give a gift shoes and handbags are their favorites.
Don’t go out and purchase expensive gifts. Tell her you need to go shopping for something for yourself and take her with you. After you make your purchase (shirt etc.) than ask her if she would like a pair of shoes or handbag then walk her to a store. Again you can purchase a nice pair of shoes for her for a couple hundred Thai baht, most nice shoes are under 300 baht and handbags under 400 Thai baht. Thai girls love shoes and handbags in a lot of different colors so don’t spend a lot of money on one item. She will need more in different colors in the future and a nice gift they all love.

Another gift men love to give which is not very important to Thai women except on special occasions are flowers. Many Thai girls feel this is not practical and a waste of money. If you do buy flowers make sure it is the right color. The wrong color can have a negative meaning. The two best colors are white and red. White means you miss or missed her, which is great to give when you haven’t seen her in a while. Red is telling her you love her and is good for Valentines Day, birthday or New Years. Yellow is in mourning so don’t give her those as yellow is for funerals.

The Engagement

Now you are both in Love and you are ready for ask for her hand in marriage. Take her to a nice restaurant for a Romantic dinner and just ask her, that’s all there is to it. Don’t purchase a ring or anything. If she says yes congratulations. Don’t worry about her parents and what they might say or want, as they already know all about you. They know their daughter loves you and she has already consulted with them and they gave their approval. The next step is to take her to a gold shop and purchase a nice necklace for her. Nothing to big and flashy but just something she likes. Let her make the choice but you keep it, don’t give it to her yet.

It is now time to go and ask her parents. You should take a well-respected Thai friend along (male) who can tell them about your good character. When you go take pictures of your family, your house and any other personal pictures that shows what your life is like back home. Then give the gold necklace to your future wife in front of them. Ask if you can marry her and say how much you love her and why. She will give the necklace to her mother who will have it blessed by a monk and return it to her. You are now engaged.

Now you can live together until the wedding. The wedding date will be set by first consulting a trusted Buddhist Monk or church pastor. Then the wedding plans can begin. You will have little or no say on how many people, where it will be held, how much it will cost or who to invite. Of course your family and close friends will be allowed to participate and attend.

In summary Thai Ladies are very smart and not the innocent little creatures western men make them out to be. If you do it the Thai way, slowly, smartly, and kindly you can have a wonderful partner for life as I have. If not you will pay the price for sure, mentally and financially.

I hope this helps in understanding the Thai way of romance. Remember things are done much differently in their culture and they are not going to do it any other way, trust me.

Randy and Ning

This beautiful new park currently has 942 animals including two beautiful white tigers that can be seen in a natural environment. There are two zones from which to view the animals either by vehicle or by taking the Jaguar Trail Hike. The night safari is open form 7 to 10:30 PM daily, cost is 500 Thai baht for adults and 300 Thai baht for children. However you can go on weekdays for free from 1 - 4 PM. Most of the animals in the park are nocturnal so seeing many in the daytime will be difficult.

The city is now planning to build in the near future an International Horticultural Expositions (now being built) to be followed by a Wild Elephant Park, an Aquarium and Theme Park. These attractions will be linked together by a cable car over a 15 kilometer distance. All this is to be linked with a light electric tramway into the city with a terminal at the Chiang Mai Zoo.

The Night Safari is located west of the city on a boundry with Doi Pui national Park.

We will be going somethime in the near future and will give a report then.

Randy and Ning

Songkran, or the Thai New Year, is still the most important of all the Thai festivals and holidays. My Thai wife and I usually have loads of friends from other countries to our home and we love to have them participate in all the traditional activities with us. Although we are not Buddhists we love to go to the temples to watch the activities, eat, drink, throw water and just have fun.

Each year, the four-day celebration of Songkran from April 12 - 15 consists of many activities, and these are briefly explained below.

April 12 is Wan Sungkharn Lohng. This is a day for house cleaning and general preparation for the New Year. In the evening it is traditional for Thais to dress up as a signal of the coming new year.

In Chiangmai, the Songkran procession is held on this day. This is a parade through Chiangmai comprised of Buddha images and attendants on floats, which are accompanied by minstrels and the town's people.

Today we load up the pickup truck with 50-gallon drums filled with water. After the parade we go to the ice house for a large block of ice to put in the water barrel. We then travel around the city joining others in the largest water fight on the planet.

April 13 is Wan Nao. On this day people prepare cooked meals and preserved food for the Buddhist merit-making that takes place on the following day.

Activities at Wat Prasingh continue on this day and in the evening local residents go to the banks of the Mae Ping River and gather sand to be deposited in piles topped by flowers in the temples. This practice is the ancient "raising the temple grounds" ritual, which was necessary in the old days because then Thai New Year was held at the end of the rainy season in the first month of the old Thai Lunar Calendar.

April 14 is Wan Payawan. On this day a grand new year begins with early morning merit-making at the temples. Preserved and cooked foods, fresh fruit, monks' robes and other offerings are made at the temples. In the home, people do the final cleaning of Buddha images using scented water. Traditionally this is the day that the pouring of water begins. It was once the practice to pour gently, but the fun-loving Thais have transposed this into a relative water free-for-all.

April 15 is Wan Parg-bpee. On this day homage is paid to ancestors, elders and other persons deserving respect because of age of position. This is called 'Rohd Nam Songkran', meaning 'The Pouring of Songkran Water', and the water is sprinkled on the elder persons while uttering wishes of good luck and a happy future.

In Chiangmai, this is the final day of the celebration and the day on which people have built up to a crescendo of water throwing. It is the day when all family and religious obligations have been completed and the people are totally dedicated to having fun.

Unlike other parts of Thailand where the water throwing activities are on a certain street, in North Thailand it is everywhere. It begins around 10 AM, earlier in the countryside, until sundown. Everyone is fair game so wear clothes that dry quickly and carry everything in ZIP lock plastic bags. Oh yes, do not get angry if someone soaks you good with ice water. Just join in and get them back.

:D Many in large tour groups think they are exempt from the water throwing because they are traveling in a large bus. When they get off the bus someone will get them with water for sure.

All transportation and lodging will be fully booked so if you plan to visit north Thailand for the festival make your reservations early.

I will be doing video of the festival to place here. Check back the third week in April for the posting.

Enjoy,
Randy and Ning

allthai: I got a kick out of reading your guide to dating and romance in Thailand as I just had a very similar courting experience compressed into 5 days in Vietnam. I'm headed back for round 2 next month. One thing: I suspect you're being a little naive regarding spending money. I've yet to encounter a culture in which women don't like men spending as much on them as humanly possible. :D

Also, girls in Saigon can be a little more physically demonstrative in public than you describe. According to a buddy of mine who lives in Bangkok, the younger generation there is much more likely to hold hands and kiss in public than their parents. But no doubt in both cultures there are regular girls and bar girls with little blurring of the two (save the semi-pros in Bangkok, Pattaya, etc.).

I was hoping to take my VN girl to Chiang Mai, but I don't think she'll have her passport squared away by then. Maybe next time.

Yes things are much faster in Bangkok. Here in Chiang Mai we don't see this happening much (except in the western pubs with hostesses). They even teach the younger girls on how to behave in public in the schools here. Living here for more than 17 years maybe this is why I love Chiang Mai so much, real Thai culture. You will also notice when you get to Chiang mai most of the girls riding on the back of motorbikes ride side-saddle. A traditional Thai girl would never ride on the back of the motorbike with her legs open straddling the motorbike behind a guy. My wife even rides side-saddle on our motorbike when I drive. it doesn't matter if she is wearing a skirt or jeans. Another thing you will notice that the girl will not put her arms around the guy while riding the motorbike unless they are engaged or married. This is one way to tell if the girl is physically involved wiht the guy she is riding with.

There are a lot of things I learned probably more than most westerners about Thai culture and the changes happening. I was just writting from my persoanl experiences and what I have learned form my Thai wife and friends over the past years. My Thai friends taught me all this so I wouldn't fall into the trap most western men fall into here in Chiang mai when it comes to the ladies.

The culture is more romantic than most think. I love it.

Randy and Ning

We always get asked questions about what company to tour with or who is a good guide in Thailand. These questions are difficult to answer as it depends on what your personal interests are and budget. Here are a few guidelines we follow and why.

When choosing a guide and tour in Thailand there are a few things to conceder to make sure your trip is rewarding and fun. I would like to make a few suggestions if I may?

In Bangkok:
Traveling by vehicle is a mess because of the traffic. You may spend more time in traffic than seeing the sights. The best thing is to travel by long tail boat as the river can access most major attractions. Also make sure your tour includes a canal trip in Thonburi so you can see how the people on the river live. Avoid the floating market, as it is jam packed and staged for tourists. You will be able to see many venders in boats during the canal trip the way it really is.

Group or Private Tour:
In a group tour there are many disadvantages however the price is a lot less. You will also be restricted by a timetable for every attraction and meal and probably be traveling by bus or van.

The reason for the timetable is first there are no places to park so the bus or van drops you off at lets say the Grand Palace. The guide has to bring you back to the road to get back on the bus or van at a certain time. This means you will probably not have enough time to ask questions or see everything you feel you what to see. Second is that your lunch will most likely be a tasteless Thai food buffet at a restaurant built for tour groups in buses or a sandwich or fried chicken boxed lunch. Again parking is a problem so you will be on a strict timetable for your lunch.

In a private tour you should be able to choose your itinerary and it should be flexible so you can stay as long as you need at one attraction. You can ask your guide questions, have an excellent lunch at a riverside restaurant, and enjoy local food from vendors. Your guide will show you the food Thais love tell you about it and you can have a sample. You will also make friends with your guide and feel like you are experiencing the Kingdom not just looking in.

In Chiang Mai:
Here you will need to take nature and culture into consideration. There are many group trekking tours that are absolutely horrible. Most don’t care or don’t know about hill tribe culture and the environment. In a group you will probably make conversation with others in the group rather than the locals. Also your guide will not have time to talk with you often and answer all your questions. Another problem is some people in the group do not get along because of personal differences or interests. One unhappy person can spoil the whole trek for everyone.

Here is where a private trek or tour is a must. One reason is you will be able to make friends with your guide and the local people. Your guide will have plenty of time to answer your questions and you will get involved with the local people and learn about their culture. Most good tour and trekking operators also use a local guide in the area you trek along with your Thai guide from Chiang Mai. The local guide knows all about the forest, plants, birds, village life and many things you knew nothing about before meeting him or her.

Finding a Tour Operator:
You should do research as you are doing now by posting in this forum. Once you get feedback check that recommendation out. Send email to the tour operator and ask lots of questions. Ask for email address of previous clients (get more than one) and ask them questions also. The operator’s previous clients should be more than happy to tell you about their experiences. Another is to make sure they have insurance and their guides are registered with The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). There are many Thai people now who have web sites and speak and write excellent English however they are not registered with TAT. They say they are guides but are not. Please be careful about this.

Here is an article written by The London Times reporter Chris Davalle who has taken a tour Bangkok – Chiang Mai – Phuket - Bangkok. This should give you a good idea what a good tour is like.

London Times Article by Chris Davalle (http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,10293-1204227_1,00.html)

Have fun.
Randy and Ning

What about the new Dusit property? The D2 Hotel Chaing Mai.

What about the new Dusit property? The D2 Hotel Chaing Mai.

It is located at the night bazzar which is fine if you want to stay in the busiest part of town. As most Dusit Hotels and resorts it was built mainly for asian tourists and the D2 in Chiang Mai seems to be tailored for the Japanese. This is very unlike the beautiful Dusit resort in Phuket. The interior design at the D2 in Chiang Mai is ultra modern along with the furnishings, which appears very stuffy to us (way too much chrome and glass). My wife and I prefer accommodations with a Thai theme that is more warm and welcoming. We haven't eaten there and probably won't as we just can't seem to get past the (what we feel) uninviting lobby.

Randy and Ning

RANDY
Can you hear me shouting at you? ;)
I have been fascinated by everything you've shared here and I couldn't stop reading even though I came online to book a Bangkok hotel! :D
I am arriving in Thailand on April 6th-----Bangkok until 9th when I fly [still to book a flight] up to Chiang Mai staying in Baan Orapin until I leave Thailand for home on 14/15th April.
I have found out SO much about Chiang Mai from this thread and I am so grateful to you.
I still have to view some more of your videos. In fact, I have only viewed the first one-----three times.
Thanks again
Margaret

I'm with you, Margaret. Randy is an invaluable contributor to this thread. You will be leaving Thailand at the time we arrive (the 13th). Be prepared to get wet, I'm told (Thai New Year). I've watched all Randy's videos. My wife refuses to watch because she wants to be surprised. Whatever.

Randy is A-MA-ZING!

I leave Chiang Mai on the afternoon of the 14th so we might bump nto each other. :D

I must tell you something funny. I had read so many brlliant reviews of Baan Orapin and I was going to book until I read someone's post about their children standing in the doorway soaking all the passers-by and I thought it was bad enough that the parents allowed this sort of behaviour but the management condoned it? :eek: A little more research told me that this was 'Songkran'. :rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
:D

Considering it will be the hottest time of year, I don't think I'll mind the water. We'll be in Bangkok (with the last day at Angkor Wat) until the 18th, then we go to Chiang Mai. I opted not to be in Chiang Mai during the weekend since it will be so crowded. The contrarian that I am, I figured Bangkok may be a little easier to get around during that time. I hope you have as good a time as we plan to have, Margaret. Say, I just realized you're from Scotland. We were there two years ago in April and stayed in Blairgowrie. What a great country to drive! My kids loved all the baby sheep.

RANDY
Can you hear me shouting at you? ;)
I have been fascinated by everything you've shared here and I couldn't stop reading even though I came online to book a Bangkok hotel! :D
I am arriving in Thailand on April 6th-----Bangkok until 9th when I fly [still to book a flight] up to Chiang Mai staying in Baan Orapin until I leave Thailand for home on 14/15th April.
I have found out SO much about Chiang Mai from this thread and I am so grateful to you.
I still have to view some more of your videos. In fact, I have only viewed the first one-----three times.
Thanks again
Margaret

Hi Margaret,

First I want to say WOW, thanks so much for everyones kind words.

You should book your flights to and from Chiang Mai as soon as possible. Everyone from Bangkok will be trying to get here or leave when the festival ends on the 15th.

Thousands of buses are added to the Bangkok - Chiang Mai route for the festival each year. The trains are so full that people even climb up on the roofs to ride on the day trains.

Anyone who is in Chiang Mai now will notice that the moat surrounding the old city has been drained of water. They are in the process of cleaning the moat so the water will be nice and clean for the Thai New year or "Songkran" festival. Colorful flowers are being replanted all over the city and sprinkler systems installed on the tops of all the bridges.

During the festival carry everything in ZIP LOCK plastic bags and wear quick drying clothes. Most impotant is join in the fun.

I will surely have a video to add here after the festival.

Randy and Ning

Do you ever wonder why there are so many Thai restaurants and food stalls in Chiangmai? I did, and my Thai wife explains it like this. Why stay home and cook when you can get good ready-to-eat Thai food that is cheaper than cooking at home?

Most Thais do not cook at home unless they have a big family. By the time they go to the market for fresh ingredients, prepare and cook and eat the food, hours have been wasted. Most of the ingredients last only a day or so, so much gets thrown out. The price of cooking gas just to cook for two persons is not worth it. So Thais get their food from vendors to take home or go to a restaurant. If you look into a refrigerator in a Thai home you would probably find only water and drinks.

I would like to explain how to find and choose very good Thai restaurants or food vendor so you don't get sick or ill. Once you have been in Thailand a while, your body will adjust and you will be able to eat almost anything, anywhere. Even my Thai wife gets stomach problems from eating bad food at times and she admits she is not as picky as I when it comes to choosing a food vendor or restaurant but she?s learning.

When choosing a good Thai restaurant, the first thing we think about is taste. During the lunch hour or dinnertime, we look for a restaurant that is full of Thai people. If the restaurant is full of tourists and no Thai people, we know the food is prepared for the foreigner?s taste buds and not real Thai food.

Is the food prepared fresh or is it sitting out like a buffet? Is meat hanging in a glass box or in a covered heated pot? Next I look at the tables and floor - are they clean with no flies? Are paper napkins thrown all over the floor? This is where most people get stomach problems. The food looks great sitting out or buffet style (not in a steamer), but how long has it been there? If the food has been prepared an hour or more ahead of time, you can get very ill. If it is not prepared fresh, stay away from it.

Service at a small Thai restaurant or food stall is much different than what most foreigners are used to. Many places do not have a menu and specialize in a certain type food. Some may just serve noodle dishes and some just rice dishes. Their menu will be written on a poster on the wall.

After you have told your waiter or waitress your order they will probably repeat it back to you and ask the question "One". This means do I have the order correctly not the number one. You will also notice that they do not write your order down but just tell the cook.

As you eat your food and drink your drinks you will notice that they do not remove empty plates or bottles from your table even if you order a second helping or additional dishes.
This does not mean they are lazy. Because they don't write your order down on paper they need to keep all the dishes and drink bottles at your table. When it is time to pay your bill the staff will count the plates and bottles on your table and add the total.

Pay attention as they do this so you don't get over charged. That happens very rarely but it does happen. They will then tell you the total price. Please don't split up the table order and say "I am only paying for my food" not his or hers or theirs. This is very confusing for the Thais and takes up a lot of their time and change for larger bills. In Thailand one person pays for everyone and they figure it out who owes who how much latter.

Another thing is tipping. If you plan to come back to this restaurant it is a good idea to leave a nice tip. My wife and I always leave at least a 20 baht tip for a simple lunch. Everytime we return we are well taken care of and first.

One important thing to remember is that ice that is round with a hole in it is OK. Stay away from shaved or block ice. I have seen many people sitting drinking hot bottled water or soft drink when they didn't have to because they don't trust the ice.

Now if you are in a hurry, it’s best to eat at a vendor’s stall, as Excellent Thai food takes a lot of preparation and is cooked fresh. If you have the time there is nothing better than eating at a nice garden Thai restautrant. Almost all good Thai restaurants have beautiful flower gardens, waterfalls, or ponds with fountains, lots of orchids, and playgrounds for the children. For Thai people, eating out is a pleasure and the food takes a while before it comes to the table, so the atmosphere is very important. Taking family or friends to a noisy restaurant on a busy street is unacceptable and considered very rude for Thai people. Street vendors and busy street side restaurants are OK to purchase food to take home or if you are on your way somewhere, but never for pleasure dinning.

One of my favorite restaurants in Chiangmai, Thailand is Chiang Mai Lan Ahan Reampae, or Chiangmai Floating Restaurant. They now have two, one on Sankhampaeng Road and the other on the outer-ring road to Mae Rim. Since the one off Sankhampaeng road is near my home and closer to town, I always eat at this one.

When you first enter the restaurant, you will notice right away a sign with their health department number and government rating of ‘Very Good”. This puts us at ease knowing the kitchen and dinning area are clean with the food prepared with fresh ingredients.

You will be escorted to your seat in one of the three areas of your choice, one open-air and the other two, covered. The dinning area is floating on pontoons that are extended out into a large pond surrounded by fields and trees. During warm days, it is best to sit in the covered area where a sprinkler system is installed on the roof to cool the hot metal sheets.

They have an extensive Thai menu and a shorter English menu. If you have a Thai friend or your Thai guide along with you, ordering from the Thai menu is best, however, the English menu is sufficient.

My wife and I went there last Sunday with friends, five adults and two children, and had 11 different dishes including rice, soft drinks, and fruit shakes, and the total price was under $18. The dishes were Tom Yum Goog (Lemon Grass Soup with Shrimp), Gai Priew Waan (Sweet and Sour Chicken), Khai Jiew Pak (Vegetable Omelet), Pla Grapong Khao Neung Manao (Steamed Sea Perch with Chili in Lime Sauce), Poh Pia Sod (Fried Spring Rolls with Pork, Vegetable Filling and Tamarind Sauce), Paad Bai Gra-pow Gai (Sautéed Chicken with Chili and Basil Leaves), Gai Paad Med Ma-muang Himmapaan (Fried Chicken with Cashew Nuts and Dry Chili), Paad Paak Boong (Stir-fried Morning Glory), Plaa Goong (Grilled River Prawn Salad Marinated with Peppermint and Lemon Grass), Gai Hor Bai Toey (Marinated Chicken in Coconut Milk, Wrapped and Baked in Pandan Leaves), and a large plate of mixed fruit.

Once we placed the order the drinks came first, then the soup and finger food such as the spring rolls then the food for the children such as the omelet. When eating Thai food DO NOT scrape one dish onto your plate. Each dish has it’s own serving spoon where you take a little and put it on your plate then use your own spoon and fork. This gives everyone a chance to taste all the wonderful dishes. You are provided a small soup bowl, a plate, fork and spoon. Chop sticks are provided if you order a noodle dish.

The great thing I enjoy about eating Thai-style at a good restaurant is you never know what dish is coming next and when. The first two or three come rather quickly, and then comes the rice. Just as we are almost finishing one or two dishes, one or two more come to replace them.

Also, I love the service. There is always someone there to fill up your water or beer glass when it gets low or add more rice to your plate before you run out. All you need to do is enjoy your food, friends, family, and the beautiful, quiet surroundings.

There are many other restaurants in Chiangmai that I like for evening dinning. All have beautiful gardens and water features, while some have traditional live Thai music. But for lunch you can’t beat the Chiangmai Floating Restaurant for cleanliness, quality of food, excellent atmosphere, and service. I recommend you take your friends or family here for a few hours to enjoy great lunch.

Have Fun,

Randy and Ning

A superb and helpful post Randy. I have printed it out already and I'm off to bed now and taking it with me to read again.
Thanks :)
Margaret

Hi margaret,

Glad you enjoyed it. I am now writing one about where to enjoy the Live music scene in Chiang Mai. I won't post it right away as I am sure people are getting tired of looking at this thread near the top every day. Of course if it is requested sooner I will post it sooner.

Randy and Ning

Consider it requested please! :p

Randy, I agree with Margaret. The sooner you post, the better since we're both heading to Chaing Mai next month. Thank you again.

Randy, I agree with Margaret. The sooner you post, the better since we're both heading to Chaing Mai next month. Thank you again.




naharragat------------ Isn't Randy one of Thailand's hidden treaures? ^

Margaret, you've got that right. I only wish I read this thread and watched his videos before setting my itinerary. Nevertheless, I'm looking forward to the adventure!

Chiangmai has an exciting nightlife. Live music of all kinds can be found in the city, from classical Thai to jazz, rock, and country. Unlike most pubs in western countries, excellent food can be enjoyed as well.

Chiangmai is famous for its nightlife, as well as the charming city and beautiful surrounding countryside. There are discos, karaoke bars, and live music everywhere. The area My wife and I like to go is along the east bank of the Mae Ping River on Charoenrat road. This is the area famous for jazz, rock, pop, Thai and country and western live music, along with fabulous restaurants serving Thai, western, and Chinese food.

From the night bazaar (Chang Klan road) go north to Thapae Road then turn right and cross Narawatt Bridge. Once you cross the bridge turn left and then after the small riverside park the first place you will come to is The Chiangmai Riverside Restaurant, 9-11 Charoenrat Road, Everyone who has been to Chiangmai eats at least once here. There is a large menu of Thai and western food. If you want a good homemade hamburger, this is a good place to get one. The live music starts around 7pm with dinner music from the Eagles, Beatles, or soft jazz. Starting at 9pm, the music changes to more rock and pop songs. Full bar service serving wine, beer, and spirits are available. The Chiangmai Riverside restaurant gets very crowded, so get here early to get a table.

If Thai food is more to your liking, no worries, just walk to the next restaurant only a few meters away to The Good View, 13 Charoenrat Road. Thai and western varieties of rock, jazz, pop and country music entertain in the evening. Their extensive menu offers more than 150 Thai, Chinese, and western dishes, including curries, noodles, rice, and pizza. Soft drinks and a full bar serving wine, beer, and spirits are available. Again, if you want a good, riverside-view table get there early.

Now you're full of excellent food and want to really rock, no problem, just continue walking down the street to La Brasserie 37 Charoenrat Road. This riverside venue is well known for nightly performances by a talented guitarist named Took and his band, who plays renditions of old Hendrix, Dylan, Marley, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and other favorites. Sit outside in the lush garden setting where acoustic guitar is played (7pm to midnight) or inside at the bar and catch the famous Took and Friends (11pm to 2am). There is also a good selection of cocktails and spirits. Not famous for food but the music is great.

Most bands in Chiangmai play at one venue for about an hour, and then move on to another restaurant or pub. Don?t be surprised if you see a band playing at the Chiangmai Riverside and, one hour later, at The Good View.

Dress code is not strict in Thailand however you should wear long pants or dress (ladies) along with a nice blouse or shirt. Women must wear bra and no flip flops or shower shoes. When Thai people go out in the evening they do not wear T-shirts and/or shorts. If the Thai restaurant workers feel you are not dressed properly you may get a table in a corner, in front of a speaker or next to the bathroom. The nicer you are dressed the better the table. If you want a table overlooking the river get there early.

Have fun,

Randy and Ning

When it gets too hot to stay in Chiang Mai city, no worries, just go to Doi Inthanon National Park a short 90 kilometers away. Bring a jacket, believe it or not, you will need it.

Soon after entering the park gate (admission 200 Thai baht), the road climbs steeply through a cutting before leveling out, passing the Doi Inthanon National Park Information Center, overlooking the Mae Klang river on the left. The road passes through open dry forest and after crossing over to the left bank, follows the course of the river, overlooking it. In the dry season, the leaves of the trees become yellow and red, before being shed.

As the road climbs gradually, an evergreen gallery forest begins develop along the banks of the river, supporting many tall and stately trees. Soaring birds of prey can sometimes be seen over the steep ridge on the north side of the road. The more level areas in the vicinity of the river are now cultivated and support small areas of orchard or vegetable gardens.

Above the waterfall, the road once again crosses over the Mae Klang River and continues to ascend the mountain, following the north bank. The surroundings change very abruptly in character, and pines predominate in many areas.

The next area supports Hmong and Karen villages, there are many government offices and residential buildings, including the headquarters of the National Park and various highway and construction works. Here is where the campsites are but you first must check in at the Park Headquarters. There are also cabins for rent however most are rented well in advance.

Here we are above 1500 meters and the temperature is like a beautiful spring day. Time to find a camping spot. Its lunchtime, so we travel up the road about 100 meters from the Park Headquarters to the Doi Inthanon Birding Center. There are several restaurants near the park headquarters but the food is not very good. Mr. Dang and his wife at the birding center are excellent cooks and fun to be around. Here is where all the bird watchers gather to talk about sightings. We will talk about bird watching later.

From here the road winds uphill sharply and past a park checkpoint. Just a little further is a mountain ridge with excellent vistas on both sides of the road. If the weather is clear, at one spot you can see the city of Chiang Mai on your right. Just a little further on your left is the twin Chedi dedicated to the King and Queen. These beautiful Thai structures are a must visit. You will need to walk up several flights of steps to reach them but well worth it.

Next stop is the summit. Here we get out of our vehicle and walk up the steps to the shrine dedicated to the Lanna Thai King who first designated this area as a national park. Walk behind the shrine to a concrete pillar and stand on it. You are now on the highest point in Thailand.

How we got there and what we did at Doi Ithanon national Park, Thailand.

The hottest time of the year in Chiang Mai is Mid March to thew end of May. Temperatures can easily exceed 40 degrees Centigrade by mid-afternoon. There is a place very close to Chiangmai where you can escape the heat and enjoy some of the finest natural scenery in the Kingdom and that is Doi Inthanon National Park.

We departed Chiangmai at 9 am it was already 35 degrees C. and started the short 1 1/2 hour drive to the park. We left Chiangmai by highway 108 through Hang Dong and Sanpatong and then about one kilometer before Chom Tong turned right on highway 1009. There is a big sign in English stating "Doi Inthanon" where you turn so it's easy to find. Continue 8 kilometers to where the road forks and then keep to the right where you will see the park entrance. The entrance fee is 200 baht and they have free maps and information for you that you will need. A copy of the park map can be seen online and might be a useful reference as you read this article.

Your first stop should be the Visitor's Center a kilometer or so past the park entrance on the left side. There they have more information and many exhibits and a slide show about the park in English. You need to know the park rules that levy stiff fines if broken (such as for picking flowers); these rules are written on the back of all the maps and brochures. After getting all the information we needed we headed straight to the Park Headquarters at Kilometer marker 31. As we approached the booth for accommodations reservations both we noticed a thermometer and found it was a perfect 26 degrees C. We decided to spend our first night in a tent and second night in a bungalow. We made our reservations for the bungalow. Since we were going to ride around the park the park ranger kept our bags for us and we proceeded to the campgrounds to pitch our tent. Tents can be rented for 60 baht and blankets at 15 baht each.

After putting up the tent we were getting hungry and headed back to see our friend Mr.Dang at the Doi Inthanon Birding Center. Mr. Dang’s restaurant is open from 7 am to 8 pm serving delicious Thai food at great prices. While having lunch we were told that a 7- man soccer match was being played this afternoon on the soccer field next to the restaurant on the Park Headquarters grounds. The match was between a Karen hill tribe village and a Hmong hill tribe village located in the park so we stayed and watched the action under the shade trees drinking ice-cold beer. We made plans to do some hiking on the Gew Mae Pan Trail near the Doi Inthanon summit (above 2000 meters tomorrow) so today was for relaxing, which I myself am very good at doing.

Just before dark we ate our dinner, again at Mr. Dang’s, got our things from the park ranger and went to our campgrounds. In May there aren't many people in the park so a secluded place to put our tent was easy to find. We built a nice campfire and I spent the evening reading while my wife did her crochet. The only sound was that of the crickets and with the smell of pine and clean fresh air drifting off to sleep was a total pleasure I haven't experienced in many months while living in the crowded city. The next morning we awoke early and packed up the tent and returned to the park ranger and again he kept our bags for us. I checked the thermometer and it was a cool 18 degrees C.

We had our breakfast at the birding center headed toward the summit passing fruit and flower stands owned by Hmong Hilltribe people. Here we stopped to have a look and across the street were green houses filled with beautiful flowers. The growing of flowers is a Royal Project so the hill tribe people can live in harmony with the park's conservation plans instead of doing their traditional slash and burn farming.

The 2.5-kilometer Gew Mae Pan Trail begins about half a kilometer past the twin Chedis at kilometer marker 42. We left our vehicle in the parking lot (which has bathrooms) and walked the horseshoe shaped trail to the end and return the same way. This turned out to be a good idea as the mountains were covered with mist and clouds and the view although beautiful was limited on our way out. On the way back the clouds had lifted and the view was spectacular.

The trail begins through dense forest with lush ferns and moss covering the tree trunks. Wild orchids and colorful birds are plentiful. It's uphill most of the way, crossing streams and climbing over and ducking under logs. The temperature is perfect for hiking and the sounds of the many birds and creeks are very enjoyable. After about an hour you come upon a clearing looking toward the west. When we arrived clouds were rushing up from the valley floor to meet us.

The next portion of the trail is through dense forest again crossing several streams. The park has provided small bridges to make crossing the streams easy. The last part of the trail is through a lovely evergreen forest with pine trees much different and larger than those found at our campsite.

We returned the way we came following the trail to the clearing and this time the clouds had lifted leaving a spectacular view of the valley floor and surrounding mountains. Two hawks were circling above, diving to the valley floor then lifting again on the air currents along the cliff edge, their screeching echoing through the canyon below.

We spent a total of six hours on the trail and saw only two other people. They were Thai photographers doing a story for a nature magazine. We could have stayed longer but hunger was setting in so we returned to the restaurant at the Birding Center.

This evening was spent in our comfortable bamboo bungalow below the Karen Hill Tribe village at Kilometer 28. We made reservations the day before. The bungalow has electricity and is equipped with a king size beds on the floor It has a big but simple bathroom with cold shower and toilet. Simple accommodations for only 300 baht per night and the bed was very comfortable and the night quiet. There is no restaurant here but kitchen facilities are available if you want to bring things along to cook. if you let the staff know a day ahead of time they can arrange meals for you.

The next day we spent visiting the many waterfalls in the park. The first one was very close to our bungalow and actually two waterfalls named after the King and Queen and called Siriphum waterfalls. The next two waterfalls were also close together and the road getting there was a little difficult but worth the effort. We went just past the second check point at kilometer marker 38 and turned left toward Mae Chaem and traveled about 8 kilometers. Here there is a sign where you turn right and travel the dirt road for 2 kilometers to the ranger station. From there it's a 500-meter walk to Mae Pan waterfall and 200 meters to Huai Luaeng waterfall.

Our last stop was on the way out of the park at Mae Ya waterfall. To get there you need to go back to Cham Tong and just before you get to highway 108 you will see the sign Mae Ya waterfall. Follow the signs for about 14 kilometers from here. There will be a checkpoint where they collect a 200 baht fee to enter. Just tell them you have been staying in the park and show them the receipt and they will let you in for free. This waterfall is great for photographs and over 250 meters tall. Try to go on a weekday, as the weekends are very crowded with Thais picnicking and swimming.

We had a great time although we didn't see everything such as Brichinda cave. We would also like to spend some time bird watching. The Park staff was a great help and very friendly and I would recommend this trip to anyone.

Shopping in Thailand can be fun or a nightmare. There are a few things to remember before spending your hard-earned cash. Here are a few guidelines and recommendations to make your shopping experience enjoyable, purchasing high quality products at great prices.

Shopping is one of the great pleasures here in Chiangmai. We have the famous night bazaar, the Saturday and Sunday evening walking markets on Walai and Rajadamnerng roads, Baan Tawai wood carving village, Bosang Sa paper and umbrella village and Sankampang with its many handicraft factories.

When friends visit, they always ask - what should I purchase and where? Here are some guidelines that I give them that may help you.

The night bazaar has some excellent bargains but be careful. The night bazaar is great for t-shirts, fake designer clothes and watches but not handicrafts. Lacquerware and wood products purchased here will split and crack after a year or so. It is not real lacquerware but only painted with a couple coats of sprayed-on lacquer paint. Wood products are not treated correctly unless you are from a hot and humid climate like Thailand.

This is also a big problem when purchasing wood products from Baan Tawai. These products are made for Thailand and should be purchased by those living here only. The problem is the wood should be dried outside in the weather for two years then heat treated in an oven. This way if you take the wood home to a cooler and drier climate or keep it an air-conditioned home it won’t crack or split. The wood products at Baan Tawai and the night bazaar are not treated properly.

For wood and lacquerware, go to the factories in Sankhampang. I recommend Sudaluck for wood products and Lai Thai for lacquerware. Here the wood is treated properly and the lacquerware is treated with real gum lacquer with seven coats. Every coat is dried and polished.

We have all heard about the gem scams Thailand is famous for. Make purchases of jewelry and gems from a reputable dealer or shop such as Princess Jewelry or Gems Gallery. The prices are a lot cheaper than western countries and the quality excellent. Remember, if the price seems too cheap to believe, then don’t believe the gems or jewelry are real.

Silk is another great bargain here in Chiangmai and much cheaper than, say, Jim Thompson’s in Bangkok. Here again be careful, if you don’t know much about silk then make purchases from a reputable shop such as Jollie Femme. Most of the silk at the night bazaar is partially polyester or made by machine in Chinese factories. Real Thai silk is handmade so the weave is very tight and will stay together after many years of wear and hand washing. Much longer than Chinese machine made silk.

Tailor made suits and clothes are also perfectly made here if you go to the right tailor. Be careful of these one coat, two pants, tie and shirt deals for $99 USD. The material is very low quality and one sleeve may be longer than the other. The biggest complaint is the pockets are way too shallow. Niramit Tailors in Chiangmai is probably one of the best in Thailand.

When it comes to the open markets of Chiang Mai, most newly arrived foreigners are steered directly either by guidebooks, travel agencies, hotel desk clerks, and even tuk-tuk drivers to the Night Bazaar on Changklan Road between Tha Phae and Loi Kroh Roads. This sizeable market, with a gigantic, well-lit sign in English and surrounded by many familiar food chains of the West, is no doubt most oriented to foreign tourists. It's here where most Western visitors get their first taste of a traditional Northern Thai shopping experience. Once amongst the tightly packed stalls, visitors very soon become acquainted with the bargaining game.

When it comes to bargaining, there are a few things to remember. Asians do not like to lose face, which is very important; however, they don’t want you to lose face either. Here is how to bargain so no one loses face.

You first ask, “How much?” for an item. The vendor will come back with a price and you say, “Too much,” and they will come back with a 20% lower price. You offer about 50% lower than the second price they gave you. They will smile and probably say nothing. This means they know what you are doing. After a few seconds, they will come back with a price around 20% lower again. You then put out a price 40% lower. They come back with maybe 25% lower. You go 30% lower and hold. They will most likely sell it to you. This way, you can get the item at the 50% discount you wanted, but they do not lose face - and neither do you.

Try to make purchases all from the same shop or vendor and you can get the price even lower. Do not pay for your items one at a time. Set your first purchase aside, then bargain for a few more items. Put all your items together and ask, “How much for all these?” When the salesperson gives you a price, make an offer for 10% lower. If they say no, start taking items off your pile and act like you just want to purchase just the first item you bargained for. Nine times out of ten they will say okay to your 10% additional discount.

There is everything available here, including handicrafts, food stuffs, clothing and shoes, jewelry, ceramic knickknacks, and more. Many of the items sold at shops inside the Night Bazaar building are of good quality and handmade. The vendors on the street at the night bazaar sell cheap copied products made in China or Burma and not true Thai handicrafts.

Remember, you get what you pay for. If you want T-shirts, knockoff designer brands, or imitation handicrafts, the Night Bazaar vendors have what you need. For high-quality handicrafts, textiles, shoes, and clothing at great prices compared to prices in your home country, go to the Saturday and Sunday evening markets on Walai (Saturday) and Rajadamnerng (Sunday) roads or the factories on Sankampang road.

I hope this will help you avoid problems when it comes to shopping in Thailand, enjoy.

Randy and Ning

Great Information on shopping in Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai.
I have just been in Chiang Mai end of January, on business and will be back 1st week of May, though I come to northern Thailand regularly I have a learnt a lot from your most recent post and all your previous ones.
Thank you.

Could someone point me to where Randy's video is about the markets? I've searched this thread countless times and can't find it and I've also sent two emails---no reply!
Thanks

Margaret, the link is at the very end of Randy's first post on page 1 of this thread.

One more thanks for the terrific information, Randy and Ning!

Margaret, the link is at the very end of Randy's first post on page 1 of this thread.



Thanks a lot. I had searched and searched and don't know how I missed it. :)