Chiang Mai has become one of the most loved travel destinations in Thailand with its beautiful architecture, delectable cuisine, pristine mountains and waterfalls, and many things besides. Yes, an authentic Chiang Mai Thailand travel is bound to be filled with so much fun and many surprises. Even though you can probably tour the entire city in one day, you will forever relieve the experience in your heart.

What’s to do in City? There are so many things you can do in this beautiful city! If you are bringing your kids with you, take them to Mae Sa and let them enjoy a ride aboard elephants or watch a football game played by elephants at the Elephant Camp, while you go look at the orchid nurseries.

Take a city tour of the Old City and ogle at the beautiful temples around, or why not have an original Thai massage in one of Chiang Mai’s spas and massage parlors? Thailand is known for these and you can find so many parlors and spas in every street corner.

The Wat Phratat Doi Suthep, a temple complex existing for centuries, is also a must visit. You have to take a 300-stair climb to see the chedi and the golden spire, and from there you can see the view of the city down below. While at the Suthep Moutain take time to visit the Zoo which houses over 6,000 animals, including two pandas on a loan from China.

Do you love shopping? Even if you don’t you would wish to bring home some souvenirs with you, wouldn’t you? These you can find at the Night Bazaar. There’s an exciting array of gift items that you can buy at the Night Bazaar. You’ll find almost everything, from silk to handicrafts to even designer items, there.

Why not go to the Doi Inthanon National Park, too? Located at the south, the Doi Inthanon National Park is the tallest mountain in Thailand. Standing grandly and 8,415, the Doi Inthanon Nationa Park is very relaxing — a perfect stop at the end of a long day.

Whichever travel destination you are going to, it is always wise to plan ahead. Book your flight and hotel accommodation early, and research on the place you wish to go to. Planning ahead helps you organize your itinerary better, thus saving you a lot of time. Planning ahead also ensures that you will stay just within your budget.

So be a wise traveler, whether you are going to Chiang Mai, Thailand, or elsewhere. Before packing your things, know your travel destination by heart.

Christina has been writing articles online for nearly 4 years now. Not only does this author specialize in thailand travel, pattaya thailand and chain mai thailand, you can also check out her latest website on cupcake wedding cakes which reviews and lists the lace wedding dress or training dogs

Author: Christina Gruble
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

If you want to see breathtaking Buddhist temples then Chiang Mai is your place! This area boast over 300 temples, called “wat” in Thai. Some of the most famous temples include the War Phrathat Doi Suthep, Wat Chiang Man, and Wat Umong. While the Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a temple standing above on a hill, the Wat Umong is a cave in a forest. There is so much variety in the Buddhist temples you wouldn’t believe it!

If you are traveling with children, the family will enjoy a trip to the Tiger Zoo. See beautiful tigers up close. Take photos of the cats and make once in a lifetime family memories.

The people living in the area are some of the nicest in the country. The are accustomed to travelers and enjoy tourist dollars. The nightlife in the area is quieter than some of the rowdier areas such as Bangkok or Pattaya. The area is more of a family location that a wild party area, which can be a benefit to some travelers.

Shopping is a must if you travel to this area. There are night and weekend markets to scoop up great bargains and cheap souvenirs. On Sunday evenings there is a fantastic food market located on Rachadamnoen Road, which is the major road in the historical center. At the many markets you can find everything from artwork, handmade items, to fantastic reproductions. Seek and you shall find some great deals to show off when you get home!

It’s no surprise that this area has over a million tourists that visit each and every year. There is so much culture, religion, and history to soak in you may need to visit more than once or plan an extended stay. Definitely visit for beautiful landscapes and a one of a kind location.

Yukorn Chanmanee: http://www.chiangmaibooking.net

http://www.thailandinfomation.com

Author: Yukorn Chanmanee
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

There is without question a two tier price structure: one for the locals and one for the visitors. All of the goods on display at the Night Bazaar will have been manufactured in the local villages around Chiang Mai. The handicraft villages such as BORSANG and BAAN TAWAI represent excellent value, on their own but, if time is a limiting factor then the Night Bazaar showcases all of the craft items available in the area.

Also to be found in the area of the Night Bazaar are an abundance of bars and restaurants where you may quench your thirst and rest your feet. All of them are reasonably priced and offer entertainment, making Chiang Mai one of Northern Thailands most appealing tourist destinations. Some distance out of the city on the way to Doi Suthep you will find the Chiang Mai zoo. A popular day trip from Chiang Mai nestled among forest and spectacular waterfalls. Feeding the alligators is always a popular spectacle but, throughout the zoo you can see all sorts of species of mammals, reptiles and birds all in natural settings. It is quite exhausting to walk around the zoo, if you want to see everything but, they do have mini buses that you can jump on to get from point to point at a small cost.

Chiang Mai offers many hotels, from budget through to the luxurious Sheraton Chiang Mai. Something worth remembering is that the majority of hotels have a daily room rate and also a monthly rate. Should you be staying more than two weeks in the city it is definitely worth ascertaing the daily rate first. Having been offered the daily rate, enquire the monthly rate. At a hotel with a daily rate of 650baht, this represents a monthly rate of 20,000baht. You will be pleasantly surprised to find that the monthly rate will be somewhere around 7-8000baht. This results in a saving of 1000-2000baht against the daily rate. Any period longer than two weeks will mean that any extra days will in essence be free. The only difference in service is that sheets will only be changed once or twice a week and the same goes for chambermaid cleaning of the room. A small sacrifice I would suggest.

South of Chiang Mai is Lamphun, home to the Northern Thailand Trading Estate which provides jobs in many Multi-National companies who’s names would be instantly recognisable to most visitors. Lamphun, also has its own moat and several historic temples. Lamphun is the original capital city of the ancient Haripunchai kingdom. Farther south along highway eleven lies Lampang, another town that attracts tourists to its important temples. None more so than the temple at Kho Ka near Hang Chat.

Its claim to fame is that it was the original home of the Emerald Buddha. The Buddha was purloined by the early monarchs and now resides in the Grand Palace in Krung Thep (Bangkok to you and I). Marks from the weapons of the time can visibly be seen in the stonework surrounding the Chedi and great play is made of the battle that took place. The original wooden temple exists to this day and is visited with great reverence by the faithful.Another city well deserving of a visit is Chiang Rai. You will need to drive north from Chiang Mai and you will eventually come across the distinguished peak of Chiang Dao – another substantial peak possessing a fabulous complex of caves underneath it.

Further north, you can leave the main route and travel through mountain passes to Doi Angkhang – one of the last true wildernesses in Thailand before the hills of Myanmar stretch out before you. Another popular choice is to continue on to Tha Ton, here you can board an overnight raft trip to the older Northern Thai city of Chiang Rai. Much quieter and older than Chiang Mai but, beautifully kept and presented.By the Southern route you will leave Lampang heading for the hills towards another pretty city Phayao, via Ngao, which lies at the foot of the hills which need to be traversed.

I can testify from personal experience that it is very exhilarating to travel this route by coach. The drivers seem not to accept that others may use the road. Certainly anyone else on the route stays well out of their way.You will know when you are reaching Phayao by virtue of the huge expanse of water on your left. There is a temple nestled at the edge of the lake which must rate as one of the most peaceful places on this earth.Past Phayao the main road swings North and eventually you enter Chiang Rai from the South. Further North some 30 kilometres lies Mae Sai whose claim to fame is to be the Northern most point in Thailand. The so called Freedom Bridge marks the border between Thailand and Myanmar. I personally don’t imagine the locals of Myanmar consider it as a freedom bridge since the Military Junta keeps them firmly in Myanmar.

To cross from Northern Thailand into Myanmar however, is certainly an experience not to be missed. Immediately across the bridge is a market which is a hotbed of contraband or cheap goods of all hues.

I am a 63 yr old British ex-pat living in a small village in Northern Thailand, between Chiang Mai and Lampang.
My main interest is Thai life in all its forms but, because of where I live it will tend to be more of a rural nature rather than city life.
If you have any questions you wish to put to me I would be most happy to try to answer. If I don’t know I will certainly know someone who will.
You can reach me at Visit Northern Thailand
Graham Dearing

Author: Graham Dearing
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

Many people ask me how long they need in the North – my personal answer would be ‘it could never be long enough!’ My first visit to Thailand 4 years ago was to the North, and I have been living here for the past 2 years. For those restricted to a travel schedule though, at least 2 days is needed to cover the basic sightseeing of Chiang Mai (the capital of the North) although you could spend a week and not have covered all that the city and it’s surrounds has to offer. If you want to explore the countryside beyond Chiang Mai a recommended 3 days is needed to fully appreciate Chiang Rai province, and a further 5 days for Mae Hong Son.

What is the best time of year to go?

Winter in Thailand is from November – February, which is also the tourism high season here. Travellers prefer to come during these months as the temperature is slightly cooler, it is also the best weather for trekking. Whilst many people avoid rainy season (May-Sep), there are advantages -this is when the fields and nature are at their most lush green. Most of the time the rain will come in short spurts, it does not rain heavily all day. Summer time (March-April) is the worst time to come, when temperatures soar to mid-late 30′s. This is also when farmers burn the fields, so air quality is very bad and visibility of the mountain views masked by smoke. Note that prices for many things such as tours,accommodation,flights are much higher during high season, so it can be cheaper to travel in the low season.

Is it recommended for kids?

Northern Thailand is a fantastic destination for kids, in fact it offers something for all ages. Soft adventure and outdoor activities, nature and animals are sure to keep the kids entertained whilst opportunities for cultural exploration together as a family can an enriching experience for all.

Transport

Most major to mid size towns in the North are well connected by local bus routes, so its possible to get around by bus, however to explore outlying areas and small villages then you will need your own transport. In some of the more developed and touristic towns there will be motorbikes for hire, if you want to hire a car it is best to do so from Chiang Mai.

Destinations in mountainous or more remote areas, will not have any form of transport so it’s advisable to have your own transport here too. Local buses come in 2 classes – air conditioned or fan. Air con buses are slightly more expensive but worth paying the extra baht for as they have more leg room and seating is more spacious. Overnight buses in Thailand are very comfortable, seats recline to about 150 degrees with enough leg room for the average height person. The only things to watch out for are the air-conditioning which they tend to put on high and karaoke songs which they like to keep you entertained with at high volume.

Travel Style

There are various ways you can travel around Northern Thailand – independent travel, group package tours, or something in between such as a private tour. Which one you opt for will depend on how you like to travel and your budget. Independent travel (the cheapest form) is obviously for those who don’t like to be restricted and prefer to explore by themselves, commonly done by backpackers on a low budget. The downfalls can be that whilst you may cover many areas with an open schedule, your travel experience will be purely observatory, you won’t know about the meaning and culture behind places without the knowledge of a local guide. Package tours are for those who feel less comfortable exploring a place on their own and like to have everything pre-planned, the disadvantage being that every aspect (hotels, transport, itinerary) is fixed including the amount of time you can spend at a sight, not good for those that don’t like to be rushed. A private tour combines the best of both independent and package travel in that you can tailor the itinerary to what you want to see and do, without the restrictions of a fixed schedule, basically you are the boss.

Your trip to Northern Thailand could combine a mix of styles, for example for tourist areas such as Chiang Mai city which are easy to get around by with public transport where a lot of the attractions have explanations in English then a guide and private transport is not required. For sightseeing in outlying Chiang Mai (adventure activities, national parks, waterfalls and temples) you may want to consider hiring a taxi or song tiaw for a day. Then for excursions to the countryside beyond Chiang Mai, which are not so easily done on public transport you could hire a car, driver and guide for a tour.

Hotels

Northern Thailand offers an amazing array of hotels and guesthouses from budget backpacker to 5 star boutique hotels. If arriving during low season it is not necessary to book beforehand, although you may get better rates if you book online. Many hotels in Chiang Mai can be found on online hotel booking agents. In rural parts most hotels/guesthouses (unless they are high end well established ones) are not available on any of the online hotel booking agents, you might be lucky if they even had their own website, so a phone reservation is the best way. During high season and any national holidays booking beforehand is advised as places get full pretty quickly.

Created by Melissa Ah-Sing is the co-founder of Thailand Hilltribe Holidays an outfit that runs responsible tours of Northern Thailand.

Author: Melissa Ah-Sing
Article Source: EzineArticles.com

It was 5 p.m. and I was stalking an angel on temple grounds. As the rain started, I wondered if she would show herself at all. In Chang Mai Thailand, rain patterns are directly correlated with the contents of my purse. The resulting meteorological phenomena means the rain could stop in a matter of seconds or pour down for days, depending on whether or not I’d brought my umbrella. I had not.

Squinting into the droplets, I glared up at the massive Chedi, a Lanna-style stupa which draws in visitors from across Northern Thailand. Sure it’s impressive, but what I want to know is: How can you have such a large building sitting there for 700 years and not install any doors? Surely it has rained here before.

Where to hide? No way would I take shelter in the two beautiful little buildings in front of me. Stunningly designed, absolutely! But each houses a wax replica of an elderly monk sitting in a clear box. File them under “way too real looking” to pass time with. What can I say? Lack of blinking disturbs me. Beside, if wax can achieve the lotus position, why can’t I?

To escape the deluge, my shelter took the form of a gazebo housing three large Buddhas. I would not be alone. One by one, temple residents trickled in. The first went straight to a mat he obviously kept laid out for these moments. Two more just sat down and licked themselves. By the time the skies opened up completely, three more temple dogs had meandered into the shelter.

Carrying dog cookies is just something I do. I could explain myself, but people either get it or never will. I tossed five treats out and turned to the sixth dog, Lek (Thai for little). She had vanished. Not possible. Would she go back out in the rain? Is there a dog door in the side of the Chedi?

I surrendered Lek’s cookie to an antique looking Weimaraner. Predictably, that’s when I spotted her. Out of the corner of my eye I noticed her sitting in the right hand of a Buddha. She yawned, nestled perfectly into Buddha’s arms and fell fast asleep. After six years of visiting Wat Chedi Luang, the temple still brings a grin to my face. Must be why I keep coming back.

Angels of Chedi Luang

Actually, as the donation box says, “It all started about ten years ago.” Ajarn Rosocon, a teacher at Chang Mai’s Rajabaht University, decided to make the dogs of Wat Chedi Luang and the adjoining Wat Phan Tau her mission. Ajarn is Thai for teacher. Her best lessons were taught at this temple complex. Out of a potential hell these unique Buddhist sites have been transformed into a sort of canine Nirvana.

Initially, students and friends helped Ajarn Rosocon care for the dogs. They fed, sterilized, treated mange, vaccinated… whatever they could manage from the pennies (baht) they scraped together. The group was determined that the dogs of Chedi Luang and Phan Tau not suffer the life faced by so many abandoned and sick temple dogs across SE Asia.

In 2005 Ajarn Rosocon unexpectedly died. A friend, Ann Pierce, and another devoted friend/student Khun Soonthree stepped in. Adopting Rosocon’s dream as their own, they went forward, honoring a friend’s memory by helping the helpless. Ultimately, Khun Soonthree became in many eyes the “Angel of Chedi Luang.”

Touring the Temples

Wat Chedi Luang has become a refuge not just for dogs, but for all animal lovers. If travelers become overwhelmed by the sight and plight of street dogs or simply need a quiet escape they visit this ‘feel good’ temple. Try it yourself. Play tourist, take photos, pat a willing pup, or bring a picnic – it’s all good. Then at 6 p.m. watch for the angel. Over a year after Ajarn Rosocon death, Khun Soonthree still feeds and cares for the temple dogs.

Word has it she never misses a day. She was there in the rainy season when her own home flooded several times. She was there in the storm when Lek and I sought shelter. Her bright yellow rain slicker and massive pot of rice mix carried her through the tempest. If it is 6 o’clock in Chang Mai, she’s there right now.

Most people visit Wat Chedi Luang’s temple complex for the impressive ancient Chedi. In addition, its beautiful grounds are perfect for strolling, quietly removed from the city’s frenzy. Vendors offer food and cool drink. Trees and benches offer hospitable shade. The adjoining Wat Phan Tau casts a luminous teak glow over the Buddha images it houses.

Better still, the aptly named “Monk Chat” area offer travelers a welcoming invitation to pull up a chair and, quite obviously, chat with monks. A casual atmosphere where international visitors just hang out with Buddhist monks is a fabulous forum for asking questions and learning about one another’s lives. In the background the voices of novice monks echo outward from classroom windows.

Who’s Who?

Of course, for a few of us the temples house one more special treasure – the dogs. Not all are social. Not all are loyal. Some are downright ornery. But to know the “who’s who” of Chedi Luang canines adds to the fun of any visit. True most tourists barely notice them – except to do a quick sidestep away. Like many regulars, however, I’ve given most nicknames.

Take Ren and Stumpy for example. Ren, a diminutive twig of a dog, is the duo’s personality. Stumpy, who has a front leg contorted up underneath, provides a bit of size (a valuable asset in the world of temple dog politics) to the team. Side by side the pair can be found on a building patio overlooking the Chedi’s north face.

Ren works her magic, charming the visitors with enthusiastic greetings. Then Stumpy shows his handicap, Abracadabra! Any traveler with half a heart makes a beeline for the ubiquitous ‘5 baht meat-on-a-stick’ vendor. “No need to heat it sir.”

Next, is Lady. She works with a local artist by delicately charming customers to his postcard rack. From there they get a close-up look at his lovely hand sketched works. I suspect Lady pulls in a commission.

Friendly Little Lek hovers at ordinary in the looks department. But every dog is beautiful when they sleep in Buddha’s arms.

Not all is perfect. When I first saw Hiccup, I thought he had just been poisoned. Now I know the perpetual hack must be a medical problem. A bone lodged somewhere or… I can not say. While not overly social, Hiccup is stunningly photogenic.

At the front entrance of Chedi Luang are the three Golden Boys. At least I think they are boys. They rarely stand. This is the first place Khun Soonthree feeds each evening. Looking at the girth of the Golden Boys, it’s a tad surprising there is any food left for any other temple dogs.

Across from them lives Lucy – the Teddy Bear dog. Had you seen her before her haircut, you would have expected to find seams and a price tag.

No one knows exactly how many dogs live at Chedi Luang, 60+ perhaps. Other notable characters include Cookie Monster, whose cantankerous attitude and dull looks are well compensated for by the fact that he is the only one who actually likes the dull old dry dog cookies I bring. Apparently others prefer Khun Soonthree’s cooking to mine.

Living on the north face of the Chedi is Scar and her three puppies. Some dogs turn up at the temple pregnant. Still, her puppies Goldie, Blackie, and Coco Puff are well cared for.

The latest I have notice is named, “Oh Crap, Where Are My Ears?” Oh Crap…, or Ears for short, must be an abandoned pet. He is way too forlorn looking. It’s as though he desperately wants a master. However, he’s willing to settle for jerky treats – or bigger ears.

Chubby, a pseudo red Chow, and Pigeon Chaser top off the list of charmers over at Wat Phan Tau. Pigeon Chaser will pass any domestic chicken, but heaven help the wild birds if he ever sprouts wings. The young monks at Phan Tau are especially loving toward their smaller population of temple dogs. It is truly a joy to watch them interact. Saffron robes and happy tails flourish side by side.

The influence Chedi Luang has on animal lovers is best summed up by Ann Pierce. A former volunteer with the dogs, Ann has returned to California, but wrote this in an email interview:

“I cannot begin to articulate the impact the dogs, Ajarn Rosocon, Khun Soonthree, Wat Chedi Luang and all the other people I met through my time in Chang Mai has had on me. I’m a very different person because of my experiences. My dream is to one day move back to Chang Mai Thailand and continue helping the animals, no matter how frustrating it is at times.”

Getting There

You can take a Tuk Tuk to visit Wat Chedi Luang. Most drivers know of this popular temple. On foot enter the old city from the famous Tha Phae Gate (east moat gate) and continue straight up Ratchadamnoen Road about four blocks to the first street light – Phra Pokklao Rd. Turn left. You’ll immediately see the spectacular Teak Wood Temple of Wat Phan Tau on your right. Take a look inside. Wat Chedi Luang’s larger complex is located next door.

Please remember Wats are Buddhist Temples first and foremost. Dress conservatively and behave respectfully. They don’t have to let the visitors or the dogs stay. Honor yourself by the example you set.

How Can You Help?

Visit Chedi Luang, have a great time, then spread the word.

Feeding starts at the main entrance between 5:30 and 6:00 each night. Stop by and show Khun Soonthree your appreciation of her work.

Please make a donation in one of the temples three Dog Donation Boxes, set up around the Chedi. Your money goes to food, vaccinations, mange treatment, sterilization of females (and males when it can be afforded), and general care.

The main Wat is currently undergoing a massive restoration. Making a donation to support the construction work, the temple and the temple’s school is good for all the residents – two and four legged (or 3.5 – sorry Stumpy).

Getting the Most from Your Visit!

Never approach any dog that seems reluctant. Get acquainted slowly with the friendly animals. Their continued socialization, or at least apathy to people, keeps them from wearing out their welcome at the temple.

Do not bring too many good tasting cookies: bacon, pork rings, a side of beef… The bigger dogs will follow and fights can ensue with defenseless smaller ones. Dry old dog cookies rate low on the taste scale. In other words, they are a perfect cheap way to give snacks to those that will eat them eventually. If in doubt, donate the money instead. It goes to the right place.

Helping Dogs in Chang Mai

If you live in Thailand, consider helping change the world one temple at a time. Get advice form angels and/or adopt your own temple – with permission of the monks. Make it a family, business, class or club project. Work with a reputable vet. Dr. Nook in Chang Mai is aces!

Other organizations that help pets in the Changhmai area temples include Lanna Dog Rescue and Care for Dogs. Both have web sites and are always looking for volunteers or donations of funds, foods and materials.

In addition, Care for Dogs also has a wonderful shelter offering adoptions of healthy rescued dogs and puppies to good homes. Remember, for each new pet that finds a family, space is made for a suffering dog to be brought into their facility. What a beautiful way to help one – dog at a time.