Chiang Mai, Thailand

Thailand's second largest city is only a fraction of the size of Bangkok and a great place to potter either on foot or by bicycle. Founded in the 13th Century the city has numerous ancient Buddhist temples and other monuments attesting to a distinguished past. In addition, since long before tourism the city has been a centre of excellence for hand-crafted pottery, weaving, umbrellas, silverwork and wood-carvings and these cottage industries can still be discovered today in and around the city. There are also some interesting local day markets and a very large nightmarket catering mainly to the visitor. There are plenty of places to eat including riverside bars and restaurants. Chiang Mai is a good base to explore Northern Thailand and the Golden Triangle - ask us for more details