Joanna James
Thailand keeps offering fun things to do, and there’s no end to it. Chiang Mai, a northern Thai city, is no different from the rest of Thailand. It offers an array of fascinating experiences.
One of the best ways to explore Chiang Mai as much as you want, the way you want, is to hop on a rented bike – there are several rentals, so you can easily find one. Chiang Mai has that vibrant, lively, and quintessential Thai atmosphere, but it’s also peaceful and serene, with lush paddy fields and rural villages across the city. Rent a scooter, and you can bike around these lush landscapes, meet locals, and make pit stops at roadside stalls to enjoy coconut juice. Plus, Chiang Mai doesn’t have the monstrous traffic that Bangkok seems to be plagued with, so you’re all set for a bike tour around the city. Another reason to rent a scooter is that it makes it easy to venture outside the city and see out-of-the-way spots. Doi Suthep, for instance, is a mountainous area that offers stunning views of Chiang Mai from the top.
At first glance, you might think that Chiang Mai is a laid-back city, and it is. But wait until the sun goes down, and you’ll see a different side of the city. Want to grab a snack? How about some low-budget shopping? It’s all possible! Night markets are among the biggest draws for visitors. Sunday Walking Street, for example, is one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai. Here, you can find pretty much everything from handcrafted items to food. If shopping isn’t your thing, don’t worry, there’s something for you to do. Head to the Nimmanhaemin Road area, and you’ll find several bars and pubs serving drinks and playing live music – it has a Bangkok-like vibe.
Another top reason why Chiang Mai is so popular is its resorts. Yes, a vacation is about the things you can do and the experiences you can have, but the accommodation is also a crucial part of it. Chiang Mai doesn’t disappoint when it comes to tourist lodgings. All budgets and preferences are catered to. On a budget? You’ll find a decent hostel or a guesthouse. Looking to splurge? Great! You have options like Anantara Chiang Mai Resort.
When you’re in Thailand, getting a massage is almost a given. Thai massages are known for using local ingredients to ensure you leave the spa feeling rejuvenated. To that end, Chiang Mai has a variety of spas offering top-notch treatments. You’ll be surrounded by the lush greenery of Chiang Mai while enjoying an invigorating massage. If you choose the right resort, you won’t even have to venture out for a massage treatment, as most five-star resorts offer onsite spa facilities.
One of the best things about visiting Chiang Mai is the chance to get close to nature. This northern Thai city is abundant in natural beauty, with waterfalls and springs nestled in thick greenery. While you’re here, make sure to visit Bua Thong Waterfalls, also called the Sticky Waterfalls. The falls feature non-slippery limestone that allows you to climb up and down without the risk of falling. The city is also known for its hot springs. San Kamphaeng Hot Springs, for example, is located just outside the city and is believed to have healing properties.
Chiang Mai is also culturally rich, as evidenced by the number of temples and museums scattered across the city. Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, located atop a mountain, is one of the most important religious sites in Chiang Mai. The only thing that rivals the temple’s beauty is the breathtaking panoramic views. Chiang Mai is also home to several museums. Two must-visits are the Chiang Mai National Museum and the Art in Paradise 3D Museum.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
