Chiang Mai

Took a 4D3N trip to Chiangmai, Thailand sometime back

I'm pleasantly surprise at how clean the streets were. But due to the wheather (it has not been raining for a while) the streets were dusty. Stayed at the Imperial Maeping, not bad, though a little tired. Location was excellent, as it's walking distance to the Night Baazar.

The night Baazar is probably the main attraction. But you have to bargain alot. They have the latest movies, games in privated VCDs, but do not buy them as they are often faulty.

The conducted tours to the temples are not worth the money. Cos' the one temple worth going to is the one at the top of the hill. It's cool up there. The rest are very near each other in the city and quite typical. You can actually take a slow walk and visit each one with the help of a map.

 Do not waste your time visiting their 'home industries'. It's not well organized and they only want you to buy the stuff there, which is often dusty and expensive. You can get better/newer things and at lower prices at the Night Baazar. Do not be mislead by the tour guides. Mine actually told me that the things are more expensive in the night baazar!

The tuk tuks, a form of transport is quite useful. It's cheaper then the taxis, but again you have to bargain before you get on. If you stay in town, everything is close by, so it'll probably cost about 40 babt per trip. Dont have to pay more.

One hotel that's really nice is the Chedi, if you have the budget, please try it. Even if you dont, at least go and take a look, it's beautiful. Not a very large hotel, by the riverside, minimalistic design, it gives one a very tranquil feeling. It's near the baazar as well!

The wood carving, sculptures are really cheap and popular and would make great decorating pieces. Highly recommended, again dont forget to bargain.

Overall my stay was enjoyable. Will I come back? If I do, I'll stay at the Chedi next time!

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