I'm wondering what is around Bradu Chang Puak that is so special. While I know the area of which you speak it's never been a destination for food for me. I can't really remember there being any streetfood either... at least not during the day.

Thank you all for the recommendations.

For someone who does not speak Thai or have friends there, would Chiang Mai be too difficult to navigate?

Not difficult at all.

I've been to CM and Phuket both many times (>8 each, I think). I usually go to both at least once each year, often by flying directly from one to the other. I don't have much to add, though. I think the above advice is very good.

Personally, I like to do both because they are so different. But CM might be better for you given that you don't seem to want resorts or beaches. And CM is generally cheaper and more convenient (few scams and price fixes). The weather in CM is awesome around Xmas and New Years. The markets in CM are vastly better. Phuket is better mostly just for "nightlife" and beaches and boat trips, IMHO, but offers a change of pace.

There are lots of great day trips from CM (Doi Suthep, Hill tribes, golden triangle, Doi Inthanon mountain, ATV, river rafting, elephant riding). But don't buy any until you get there, shop around, and negotiate.

Nope. It's very easy to walk and if you need transpo there's seems to be enough English spoken that you'll be able to manage.

But it can get cold at night if you're out late. It's not unheard of to hit 10C during those periods. Not cold for someone from New York but definitely cold if you've already become acclimated to the day to day warmth.

Absolutely true. I was not dependent on my friend to potter around. It just proved quite handy for getting into the really good stuff that's a bit out of the way from the touristy sections.

But shortly before sunset the area turns into food maniac. The stalls, stools and tables are set up in front of the big "white" market hall. And the main street becomes a parking lot. Hard to drive by. At least by car.

Cool, thanks for that. Is it a bigger setup than down at Bradu Chiang Mai?

Sorry can't tell. Saw Pratu Chiangmai only once or twice driving by while from my former place in CM@Chaangpueak I had the full controll over the area.

And it can get colder than that.

Remember seeing pictures of water turned into ice about a year or so ago in Bangkok papers. But that is rather unusual as I understand it.

Send 2lovelife (formerly Seanthepilot) a PM. He has lived in both places.