Discovering Chiang Mai, Thailand
iBestTravel Local Alana Morgan first moved to the northern Thai town of Chiang Mai thinking she would stay six to eight months. Seven years later and she’s still living and working in the city, sharing her experiences and insights.
Must-See Temples
When visiting Chiang Mai, don’t miss the ‘silver temple’, Wat Srisuphan, off Th Wualai, and the wooden Wat Phan Tao in the center of the old city. Additionally, iconic temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Wat Chedi Luang, and Wat Phra Singh are excellent destinations, though they tend to be more crowded every year. Keep in mind, there are numerous other temples to explore throughout the city!
Your Day in Chiang Mai
No one should visit Chiang Mai without allocating at least one day to simply enjoy the surroundings. The city’s charm is best experienced at a leisurely pace—start your day with a relaxing breakfast, then choose a direction to wander. Along the way, take time to visit local temples, markets, and cafes that pique your interest. To escape the midday heat or an unexpected rain shower, consider dropping into the nearest massage shop for an affordable foot massage.
Shopping in Chiang Mai
I do most of my shopping at local fresh markets for produce, especially at Talat Warorot for other essentials. Many household items I own are sourced from Warorot; I also visit the flower stalls at Talat Ton Lam Yai monthly to fill my home with vibrant tropical foliage at an affordable price and to stock up on unique gifts.
Street Food Delights
For delicious and budget-friendly street food, head to the north or south gates of old city. Every evening, street stalls open, offering a variety of prepared foods and made-to-order dishes. Traditional Thai dishes, snacks, fresh fruit, and beverages are readily available, whether you choose to eat at the metal tables or grab a takeaway. While numerous other street food spots exist throughout the city, these particular areas offer some of the highest concentrations of stalls and are effortlessly accessible.
Exploring the City
During my time in Chiang Mai, I still find joy in wandering aimlessly for hours. This city evolves rapidly, ensuring that I always discover something new. Among the best areas for getting lost are the streets branching off from Nimmanhaemin Road, the narrow sois in the Old City, and along the river, particularly in the Wat Ket neighborhood.
Cafés and Coffee Culture
For caffeine enthusiasts, Chiang Mai presents an abundant selection of cafes with new venues and roasteries emerging constantly. My favorites include Ponganes, Gateway Coffee Roasters, Graph Cafe, The Baristo at Ping River, and Yellow Crafts Home Brewing, among others!
A Typical Weekend
A typical weekend for me involves stepping away from work to rediscover the beauty of my adopted city. I relish going out for a proper breakfast at places like Khagee, Rustic & Blue, or Overstand Coffee Shop. Grocery shopping at an organic market, socializing with friends over coffee or dinner, and taking leisurely rides on my motorbike outside of town fill my time. Chiang Mai’s compact nature allows you to enjoy a variety of experiences in just one day.
Pampering Yourself
When I want to treat myself, I indulge in a massage or treatment package at one of the nicer spas in town, like Fah Lanna Spa. Alternatively, I enjoy heading out for afternoon tea or sunset drinks at one of Chiang Mai’s five-star hotels such as 137 Pillars House or Hotel Yayee.
Affordable Upscale Dining
For upscale yet budget-friendly Thai meals, visit Ginger & Kafe @ The House for beautifully presented dishes and unique cocktails, or Fah Tara Coffee, a lovely garden cafe linked to Fah Lanna Spa. The River Market serves standard Thai dishes with a romantic riverside atmosphere, while Ruen Tamarind specializes in northern Thai cuisine.
Must-Try Dish in Chiang Mai
Whatever you do, don’t leave Chiang Mai without trying kôw soy. This northern Thai curry is the area’s signature dish, featuring a creamy coconut curry with egg noodles, chicken, and garnished with fried wontons, lime, shallots, and pickled greens. This delectable dish can be found at many establishments, though it typically shines brightest at smaller eateries dedicated to noodles and kôw soy, such as Khao Soi Lam Duan and Khao Soi Islam.
Unique Drink Options
If you’re looking for drinks beyond Singha, Chang, or SangSom, then Drinksmith offers unique signature cocktails, while Parallel Universe of the Lunar 2 on the Hidden Moon is a haven for craft beer enthusiasts. However, do keep in mind that prices here are often comparable to those found outside Southeast Asia. Finding good wine at reasonable prices can be challenging due to high import taxes, but Piccolo Wine & Tapas boasts an excellent selection of international wines and scrumptious tapas prepared by their Spanish chef.
Best Time to Visit Chiang Mai
The most magical time to experience Chiang Mai is during November’s Loi Krathong holiday and in the middle of the rainy season when tourist crowds tend to thin out.
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