Chiang Mai, meaning ‘new city’, is the
capital of the north of Thailand and the region’s most important town. Ideally situated at the crossroads of northern southeast Asia, it is a
bustling transport center. It is also a great place to
hang out in its own right, and an ideal spot from which to
launch a trip into the surrounding region to see the
hill tribes.
In addition to modern,
urban sophistication, the city has managed to preserve some of its
ancient atmosphere. Although Chiang Mai is considered Thailand’s second
city, the lifestyle and atmosphere here is a world away from frenetic Bangkok, particularly in the
old quarter, which has retained its
traditional wooden houses and tranquil garden spaces.
Once the focus for trade in silk, timber and opium, Chiang Mai is now a hub for cross-border trade with
Myanmar and
Laos. It is also northern Thailand’s primary
tourist destination. The city’s
temples are its primary draw, but interestingly these still function as community centers rather than just as museum exhibits. A thriving
craft industry, an increasing number of
cultural and
spiritual learning opportunities, excellent and varied
cuisine, lively
nightspots and good-value
accommodation add to the city’s appeal, making it the sort of short-stay destination that people find hard to tear themselves away from.
The Columbus World Travel Guide has been published for 26 years and is sold in over 90 countries worldwide.
Related Chiang Mai Content
Word Travels is a comprehensive travel guide covering hundreds of cities and holiday resorts in more than 125 countries.
Related Thailand Content
The Columbus World Travel Guide has been published for 26 years and is sold in over 90 countries worldwide.
Word Travels is a comprehensive travel guide covering hundreds of cities and holiday resorts in more than 125 countries.
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