Chiang Mai, is Thailand's second largest city. The city was established in 1296 with the name of "Nopburi Si Nakhon Ping Chiang Mai", meaning "New Walled City". Later in the 14th and 15th centuries, it became the centre of spiritual and culture for the kingdom of million Thai rice fields. The eighth world synod of Theravada Buddhism was held in Chiang Mai in 1477.
Thai King Thaksin regain control of Chiang Mai from the Burmese and appoint a jâo meuang (lord) named Chao Kavila from nearby Lampang as viceroy of Northern Thailand in 1775 and established Chiang Mai as Thailand's northern capital. Kavila also built the monumental walls around the city with Tha Phae (tha phae means 'raft pier') as a river port. This has created a migration of people to this important trade centre.
Many Shan and Burmese style temples built in the 19th century came from these wealthy teak merchants। The linking of the northern railway in 1921 brought an influx of people and tourists to this once difficult to reach region. Chiang Mai's original commercial trade was later replaced by the tourism industry.
Its mild temperature during the festival seasons are the main reason tourist began to flock this capital of hidden treasures. Its symbolic handcrafted artifacts, weavings, silverworks and umbrellas have become a trademark of Chiang Mai and making shopping the most popular acitivities among tourist.
Moving Around
The transportation in colourful Thailand is as exhilarating as the country itself। The most popular transport are "túk túks" which seems to be everywhere should you need one. These 3 wheels cross of a scooter and beetle is an exciting way to get to your destination.
Other means of transportation in Chiang Mai city are săwngthăew (pick-up truck taxis), and săamláw (three-wheeled pedicabs) which are easily available. These choices of transport should be able to get you to most of the attractions in the city. Always ask and negotiate the fare before getting on to avoid any disputes.
Airport Transfer
Located 4 kilometers southwest of the city centre, Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX) has a single terminal to cater for both domestic and international flights. Getting from Chiang Mai Airport to the city is easy; there are airport taxis and metered city taxi service and mini-bus (or song thaew in Thai). Most hotels provide affordable or complimentary transfers between the airport and the hotel.
Accommodation
Accommodation can be found along the famous Mae Rim Mae Sa Road, Fang Tha Thon area, and Hang Dong District.
There are about 300 hotels and guesthouses in Chiang Mai. Homes converted to guesthouses are the cheaper version with cozy atmosphere but lacks privacy. There are also hotels and resort and spas that pamper your senses and offers complete relaxation.
Dining
A not to be missed local dish is Khao Soi, a noodle dish mixed with meat and coconut cream, it has a sweet and spicy taste. Or opt for the Khantok Dinner at Chiang Mai Cultural Centre, where you can sample most of the northern dishes at one go while enjoying several performances of traditional dances and cultural shows.
Thai fruits also have an amazing feat in tantalising one's tastebud. It is mysteriously fragrant and sweet, not to mention in a myriad of colours.
There are even Thai cooking classes for those who would like to bring home Thai cooking skills. Classes include trips to the market, paste making and vegetable carving. A visit to Chiang Mai will not just end there and then; the memories or the cooking skill gained will be much appreciated back at home.
Sightseeing
The Hmong tribe in "Ban Hmong Mae Sai Mai" is still preserving its cultural heritage. Along the Mae Sae route there are 3 main resorts, the Mae Sa Resort which has a 9 hole golf course, the Mae Sa Valley and the Kangsadan Farm. Wherelse, Mae Snake Farm along the Mae Rim-Samoeng route has a variety of snakes and is a snake breeding farm that also conducts daily snake shows.
"Queen Sirikit Botanical Gardens" is a tourist attraction covering 560 acres of mountaineous area with a wide collection of Thai and foreign plants. It houses the Tourist Information Center, the Thai Orchid Breeding Center, Herbs Museum and the Research Center.
At the "Elephant Nature Park", a project established in the 1990 by providing sanctuary and rescue center for Thai elephants, naturalists can enjoy the taste of living with these tame giants.
Culture
"The Heritage Architectures"
Koh Samet
Samet Island (Koh Samet) is conveniently located a short drive and boat ride away from Bangkok. It is part of the Khao Laem Ya - Koh Samed National Park. A small island, only 8km long and 3km wide, it offers visitors a beautiful natural habitat that features the island's iconic Oriental Pied Hornbills. Visitors also have a chance to see a variety of tropical marine life with snorkeling and diving trips off the island's southern tip. The striking southern coastline where Paradee is situated is still something of a secret to most tourists and it is well-worth exploring, especially to experience its gorgeous sunset views. Paradee is part of the Samed Resorts group that includes 4 other resorts on the island: Le Vimarn, Ao Prao Resort, Sai Kaew Beach Resort and Samed Club
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