See what the experts are saying about Chiang Mai Province. Get expert advice on how to get there what to see and more.
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The best small towns and villages
Pai: Not your typical tiny mountain-valley farming village, Pai is a favorite for budget travelers who want to put their feet up and relax. The scenery is gorgeous, the many bungalows are cheap, and the restaurants are good. You'll want to st... Continue reading »
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The most fascinating temples
Wat Phra Kaew (Bangkok): With its flamboyant colors and rich details, this shrine is a magnificent setting for Thailand's most revered image, the Emerald Buddha. Inside the main temple building, a profusion of offerings surround the pedestal... Continue reading »
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The most intriguing historical sites
Ayutthaya: The former capital of Siam was one of the world's largest and most sophisticated cities before it was ransacked by the Burmese in 1756. Today it remains one of Thailand's greatest historical treasures, with abundant evidence of its... Continue reading »
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The best resorts & spas
The Best Luxury Resorts & Spas The Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi (Chiang Mai; tel. 05388-8888): This mega-resort was designed to echo a sumptuous Lanna-era palace with gardens, rice paddies, lawns, and a restored viharn (shrine). Many of t... Continue reading »
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Planning a trip
Here you'll find all of the nuts and bolts on how to get to Thailand, where and when to visit, and what documents you'll need, as well as pointers to other sources of information that can make the difference between a smooth ride and turbulen... Continue reading »
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Fast facts
American Express -- There is an office at S.P. Building, 388, Pahonyothin Rd. in Bangkok. You can reach the office at tel. 02273-0033; it's open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm. More Thai hotlines can be found on www.americanexpress.com, but t... Continue reading »
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When to go
Study weather information, as an ill-timed trip can mean pouring rain, debilitating humidity, or seas too rough for diving or beach activity. The high season for tourism throughout the kingdom is the North American/European winter period, mid... Continue reading »
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Calendar of events
January/February Chinese New Year, nationwide. Head for any Chinatown to see the vivid parades, firecrackers, and Lion Dances associated with this holiday. Things get most raucous in Bangkok's Yawarat district (Chinatown). It falls anytime... Continue reading »
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Getting there
By Plane When you plan your trip, consider that Thailand has more than one international airport. While most international flights arrive in Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport (airport code BKK), you can also fly directly to Phuk... Continue reading »
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Escorted & package tours
Packages for the Independent Traveler Package tours are simply a way to buy the airfare, accommodations, and other elements of your trip (such as car rentals, airport transfers, and sometimes even activities) at the same time and often at... Continue reading »
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Health & insurance
Travel Insurance Check your existing insurance policies and credit card coverage before you buy travel insurance. You may already be covered for lost luggage, cancelled tickets, or medical expenses. The cost of travel insurance varies w... Continue reading »
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Getting around
Thailand's domestic transport is accessible, efficient, and inexpensive. If your time is short, fly. But if you have the time to take in the countryside, travel by bus, train, or private car. Read on for details about all your transport optio... Continue reading »





