Chiang Mai Highlights February 17-20

So we went to the world famous night market in Chiang Mai (photo above), saw our share of temples in the old city as well as our fill of crafts being made in the Bo Sang/Sangkampaeng area but without a doubt, the highlight of our time in Chiang Mai and what provided us with some great photos was our trip to the elephant camp about 45 minutes outside of the city. Yes it’s a little touristy, (the elephants get a bath, they do a little show which actually does include moving logs around and not just painting (although they are very good at that) and then guests can also go on a 30/60 minute long ride) but the elephants are well fed and cared for. The photos speak for themselves of the joy/delight/apprehension that Brian and Bobbi might have felt as they got up close and personal with these magnificent creatures.

(Photo above: Look Ma, no hands...seriously do you see anyone but Brian and I on the elephant? That's because there wasn't...for just a moment! )

Another highlight for me in Chiang Mai was discovering two great places to stay. The first, Riverside House, along the bank of the Ping River, where we stayed is a very affordable ($15-25 a night) and nice guest house. A great family runs it and it will be my place to stay when I return to Chiang Mai, you can read my review on Trip Advisor if you are interested. The second place was on the other side of the river and called The Chedi. At least 10 times the cost of Riverside House it might be one of the coolest designed hotels I have seen. Check out the photos at the link.

An additional highlight in Chiang Mai was being surprised at how cool it still was. In the morning it was down to 69F, a remarkable change from Bangkok’s warmth and humidity and a pleasant relief from continual sweating!

One final highlight was getting together with Andrew Goodman who used to work with my parents in Maehongson. What was even more surprising was when he rode up on my dad’s old motorbike (purchased in 1980 I think!) I had last seen the bike out in Maehongson where another friend was using it, but Andrew says it is perfect for riding around Chiang Mai!
Ok I lied, one more highlight but this ties in with the transportation theme…but certainly a highlight was experiencing Bangkok Airways for the first time. Bangkok Airways advertises itself as Asia’s Boutique Airline and it lives up to this claim. We chose them as they are the only airline that flies direct to Siem Ream in Cambodia from Bangkok and then we just stayed with them for our flights from Bangkok to Chiang Mai. In a time when airlines keep cutting service and adding fees it was great to fly an airline where you are served a meal on every flight even on the short 35 minute hop from Bangkok to Siem Reap (and really good meals at that - photo below - authentic thai grilled pork and sticky rice!) and where everyone has access to a lounge with yummy treats and drinks pre flight! I am most definitely a fan!


Duncan