Saturday 20 December 2008
Chiangmai Cool Event December 2008
Arts Culture & Theatre Festival: ACT fest
Date: 19th-21st
Chiang Mai City Art Center and Three Kings Monument 053 404582, 089 9517882 Gabfai Community Theatre, Community Theatre Network and Child Trafficking Watch Thailand present 'Arts Culture & Theatre Festival: ACT fest' at Chiang Mai City Art Center and Three Kings Monument. This festival will take place on 12th-14th and 19th-21st December.
Central Plaza Gift Wonderland 2009
Date: Now – 31st December
@ G floor, Central Airport Plaza 053 999199 ext 1308 Come fascinate the land of music themed ‘The Star of Music’ under Christmas tree. The fair will include Acrobatic & Rope performance.
Chiang Mai Winter Fair
Date: 27th December - 5th January
@ The area behind the Chiang Mai City Hall 053112620 All sorts of wonderful, lovely and supremely tacky local goodies for sale in this annual winter fair. Have fun with many local shows and performances. Miss Chiang Mai contest will be held at the fair.
Chiang Mai Motor Show
Date: 12th-21st December
@ Big C Arena Hall: Big C Super Center (Don Jan) Chiang Mai Business Motors Club and Vsign Media Co., Ltd. will host the big fair ‘Chiang Mai Motor Show’. Check out the special promotion, ‘3G: Grang Dream, Great Drive for Green Innovation’. There is also off road gymkhana racing.
Annual Rose Show 2008
Date: 19th -21st December
@ J.J. Good Taste Market 081 0225827, 081 0316341, 081 4720242 Chiang Mai Rose Growers Group is holding its Annual Rose Show 2008 from December 19th – 21st between 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. The show features cut-rose and potted rose competitions, flower arrangement and painting for school children competitions, demonstrations on rose propagation and rose preservation in silica sand, exhibitions of roses from the Royal Bhuping Palace, Rose Clinic and other interesting activities. Free admission. Ample parking space.
The European Union Film Festival 2008
Date: 11th - 21st December
@ Vista Kadsuankaew The Vista, Central Kad Suan Kaew presents the European Union Film Festival 2008 at the 4th floor. Ticket priced 70 baht per seat.
‘The Eight’ Reindeer Monologues
Date: 21st – 24th, 26th- 28th December
@ ArtSpace 085 6226607, 084 0417982 artspacecm@gmail.com thegatetheater@asia.com Written by Jeff Goode and directed by Stephan Turner, this is a series of eight monologues, one from each of Santa's reindeers. A comedy play. Suggested donation is 250 baht. The show begins at 8 p.m. with doors and bar opening at 7 p.m. Adult audiences only.
Strange snow
Date: Fridays and Saturdays 5th- 20th December
@ Studio Theatre, 7th floor, Central Kad Suan Kaew 087 1772195, 086 6713371 thegatetheater@asia.com The Gate Theater Group is hosting ‘Strange Snow’ final production of 2008. Doors open at 7 p.m. with curtain at 7.30 p.m. Suggested donation 300 baht.
A Piano Recital by Na Nandhorn Boonruang & Ingvo Clauder
Date: 16th December, 7.30 p.m.
AUA Language Center 053 278407 D&M Music Studio’s piano recital by Na Nandhorn Boonruang & Ingvo Clauder from Germany. Tickets are priced 300 baht and 150 baht for student are available at the door or by calling K. Mongkol at 081 6828000.
Lanna Photo Contest
Date: Now - 28th February
081 9229063, info@knowledgemediagroup.com Knowledge Media Group invites all of you to join the Lanna Photo Contest to promote tourism, arts, and the unique cultural and historical heritage of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. The theme of the contest is 'Cheers! Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai' focusing on the best of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, cherished by residents and visitors alike - the pristine natural beauty and environment, the wonderful places of interest, the vibrant art scene, the best hotels, resorts and spas, beautiful gardens and parks, traditional and modern architecture, and the unique Lanna Cultural heritage of the people. Winners announced on March 31st, with exhibitions from May 1st to July 31st. There will be a dozen generous prizes valued at more than 250,000 baht.
Friday Night @ Amari Rincome Hotel
Date: Every Friday night
@ Amari Rincome Hotel 053 221130, sales@rincome.amari.com BBQ & Tapas Bar extravaganza with succulent seafood and prime cut meats. Great grill and tapas bar clinking glasses of wine & beer from 6 - 10 p.m. only 350 baht net per person.
Shangri-La's afternoon tea dance
Date: Every Saturday, 2.30-5.30 p.m.
Waltz - Rumba - Cha Cha Cha - Samba - and enjoy yourselves every Sat at the Lobby Lounge…a dance instructor is on hand for assistance. This new activity is included in the price of the famous Shangri-La Afternoon Tea. You could also enjoy the freshly made scones, cake of the day, classic sandwiches and a choice of over 50 different Ronnefeldt teas from around the world every Saturday and Sunday at 2 - 6 p.m.
Christmas & Count down Party @ Nimman Bar & Grill
Date: 24,31 ธ.ค.
@ Nimman Bar & Grill 053 222111 www.kantarygroup.com 24th December: 7 pm onward, welcome Christmas day with various cocktail. Enjoy the view of Doi Suthep and the cold wind that set a romantic Europe style. After warm up with beverages, let’s enjoy with Christmas special buffet including turkey and various food, all for 750 bath. 31st December: Let’s count down with your love. The best chef prepare tasty buffet menu for your cerebration. Have fun with live music and have a chance to get special prizes. The dinner is only 850 baht per person.
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve @ dusitD2
Date: 24th, 25th, 31st December
053 999999 or d2cm@dusit.com Christmas Eve dinner buffet with a Pecking duck station, roasted turdey, Australian prime rib eye of beef and Christmas desserts. Dinner buffet starts 6.30 p.m. 1,799 baht net. Christmas day: a selection of dim sum, sushi + sashimi, freshly shucked New Zealand oysters and a roast turkey carvery. Lunch buffet 1,299 baht net. New Year’s Eve seafood dinner buffet: Live music with a caviar station, duch foie gras, an ocean harvest corner, roasted venison flavored vodkas. Dinner buffet @ 4,599 baht net with a glass of Moet & Chandon Brut champagne. Mix Bar feature guest DJ, seed Norasate Mudkong. 9.30 p.m. onwards. Tokens are available @ 400 baht net per person including 2 cocktails or hotel selected wines. Children from 4-12 years enjoy a 50% discount and under the age of 4 dine for free.
Saturday 1 November 2008
November 2008's events.
November Promotion
Date: November 12th
The Imperial Mae Ping Hotel 053 283 900 On 12th November from 7 - 10 p.m. join a soiree set at a swimming pool with Lanna cuisine, a contemporary Thai dance performance and a Miss Yee Peng contest. Early reservations recommended. Tickets for adults at 550++ baht and children (4-12 years) at 275++ baht.
Thanksgiving at Bake & Bite
Date: 27th November 2008
Celebrate Thanksgiving Day with Bake and Bite on Thursday 27th November. Start the harvest festival with a Thanksgiving lunch special at both locations on Chang Klan Road and Nimmanhaemin Soi 6 from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., with a roast turkey set with full condiments at only 320 baht per person and other special dishes such as roast turkey with stuffing and gravy, roast lamb shoulder with gravy, vegetables and mashed potatoes, turkey stuffing, pumpkin pie and baked sweet potatoes. Continue the celebration in the evening with the Thanksgiving Buffet Dinner at the Chang Klan location from 5 - 7 p.m. and 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Dinner favorites include turkey with stuffing, roast lamb, honey glazed ham with apple sauce, vegetables, soup, pumpkin pie, rustic apple pie, mashed potatoes and gravy, pumpkin cheese cake - all this for only 450 baht per person and 220 baht for children under 12. Chang Klan Road Tel: 053 820 761 Nimmanhaemin Soi 6 Tel: 053 400 577
'Unit Asia' Jazz Concert
Date: 8th November
E.C. Court Auditorium, Payap University, Kaew Nawarat Campus The Japan Foundation and Payap University are co-organising this Southeast Asian Tour supported by the Consulate-General of Japan in Chiang Mai, Old Japan Students Association Northern Regional Office and Yamaha at 7 p.m. on Saturday 8th November. The theme of 'A New Direction in Asian Jazz' is being lead by five musicians active in Japan and other parts of Southeast Asia.
An Evening of Mellifluous Flute Music
Date: 15th November
AUA Auditorium 053 820464 The Chiang Mai Flute Club presents 'An Evening of Mellifluous Flute Music' from the Renaissance to the Blues on Saturday 15th November at 7:30 p.m. at the AUA auditorium. Admission is 150 baht for adults and 80 baht for students. Tickets are available from Xavier Flute Studio.
Super Star on North
Date: 1st - 2nd November
Lan Muan Jai, Central Airport Plaza Chiang Mai The first time in Chiang Mai for this kind of concert featuring well known local musicians such as Aof Pongsak, Lanna Cummins, M The Star, New-Jiw The Star, Ton The Star, Dew The Star, Mild, ETC and Peck-Ice as special guests. Some of the proceeds will go to 'To Be Number One Friend Conner Project'.
Remembrance Day
Date: 11th November
Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery A remembrance day service will be held at the Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery, in memory of all those who gave their lives in war and the service of their country. A two minute silence will be observed at 11 a.m. The silence will be preceded by a non-denominational service, commencing at about 10:45 a.m. After the service visitors are invited to the Chiang Mai Gymkhana Club for refreshments. The Chiang Mai Foreign Cemetery is on the Chiang Mai - Lampoon Road about 1 mile south of Nawarat Bridge, opposite the Electricity Company offices.
Digital ICT Chiang Mai 2008
Date: Now -2nd November
Chiang Mai University Convention Center 089 388 0354 Enjoy a special promotion on IT products at Digital ICT. The fair will take place at CMU Convention Hall from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Loy Krathong @ Kalare Night Bazaar
Date: 11th - 13th November
Kalare Night Bazaar Kalare Night Bazaar is proud to present the Loy Krathong festival from 11th - 13th November from 6 - 10 p.m. Activities include demonstrations of making a Kra Thong, a Tung and a flying lantern as well as the Kra Thong competition. The show includes a parade of angels, fashion shows and Thai traditional dancing.
British Boarding Schools Interview and Information Day
Date: 14th November
Shangri-La Hotel 053 224 603, 053 304 885 You are invited to meet representatives from UK schools and colleges where there will be free interviews and counseling from 3 - 6 p.m.
TAT Amazing Fun Golf
Date: Now - November
Tel: 1672, 02 747 3448 TAT, in cooperation with Kasikorn Bank and Taylor Made-adidas Golf, is launching this project which aims to promote tourism throughout the rainy season. The competition is being held on six star golf courses throughout Thailand. Limited to 160 competitors per course. Admission is 3,000 baht per person. Players will receive an 'After Par' manual book, privilege golf card and a souvenir gift valued at 2,000 baht from Taylor Made.
6th Annual International Day Celebration
Date: 8th November
Prem Tinsulanonda International School 053 301 5006 or email enquiry@premcenter.org Prem Center, located in Ban Nom Pla Man, Mae Rim, will be hosting its 6th Annual International Day Celebration on Saturday, 8th November from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Come and experience a taste of the world as you sample delicious international cuisine, view traditional dancing, participate in craft designing and admire the winning entries from our photo competition. Parking and entrance to the fair is free of charge.
Bakery seminar and workshop
Date: 18th November
Chiang Mai Phu Come Hotel 053 282 979, 053 334 111 www.cmbakermart.com Bakery seminar and workshop host by Chiang Mai Bakermart at the Werawan room from 8:30 a.m. - 4 .p.m. The workshop is open to anyone interested in baked goods with questions being answered by Chef Sunai Phiboonsawat, formerly of JW Marriot Hotel Phuket.
The celebration of Omkoi - Nanthaburi and the winter festival
Date: 7th - 12th November
Omkoi sub-district municipal stadium To celebrate and support the tourism industry, activities include light and sound shows, an exhibition from civil servants and individual organisations together with the OTOP fair, Yee Peng ceremony, beauty contests, Ka Ren boxing world championship, a cooking competition and much more.
Yee Peng Floating Lantern Ceremony
Date: 8th November
Lanna Dhutanka Meditation Center 089 633 2425, 085 062 5555 Buddhists! You are all invited to join the Yee Peng Floating Lantern Ceremony in Homage to The Lord Buddha. The ceremony will take place on Saturday 8th November from 4:30 - 8:30 p.m.
The Steak House Promotion
Date: November
The Steak House 053 872 890 The Steak House would like to invite you to experience wonderful French cuisine. Throughout November come experience the magnificent atmosphere on the bank of the Ping River with an excellent international buffet including French oysters and foie Gras, Australian beef BBQ, salad, pasta and dessert bar, cheeses and much more. There's also band performances and full moon night celebrations. Buffet 2,000 baht net per person includes a Krathong and balloon. All you can drink wine buffet 1,500 baht net per person. Open daily for lunch & dinner 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. The Steak House Sunday Brunch - choose from the a la carte menu and get free all you can eat salad, soup, pasta and dessert bar. For salad bar only 390 baht net per person. Adult brunch 550 - 990 baht net per person. Children 250 - 350 baht net per person.
Loy Krathong Dinner
Date: 12th November
Le Coq d'Or 053 141 555, 053 801 501, 081 671 2306 Come celebrate Loy Krathong and quench your culinary desires for luxurious French food with professional chefs in a fantastic atmosphere near the Ping River. Sip on glasses of Charles De Laroche 'Grande Cuvee' Brut and enjoy live jazz music under the sparkling sky with thousands of lanterns at Le Coq d'Or Restaurant on 12th November. Four course Loy Krathong dinner (including champagne) is 3,500 baht net per person.
Citylife Photo of the Year Contest 2008
Date: Now - 24th November
053 225 201, 053 357 428, 053 357 490 www.chiangmainews.com/photooftheyear Citylife magazine is inviting everyone who loves photography to join this photo of the year contest entitled 'City Life'. Please submit a maximum of 3 photographs per person between 1st October - 24th November. Photographs from mobile phones and compact cameras will also be accepted. The first prize winner will receive 10,000 baht and may have their photo featured on the cover of Citylife January 2009 [Ed. At the discretion of the photo editor], otherwise the photo will be featured in the magazine.
Benefit Golf Tournament
Date: 8th November
The Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort 086 910 6223 Thai Airways are hosting this benefit golf tournament at The Royal Chiang Mai Golf Resort Baan Rom Luang in San Sai in hopes to raise money for school supplies for students at Baan Bor Hom School in Samoeng. The shot gun star competition will start at noon from 8th November onwards, the application fee for a VIP team of 5 people is 10,000 baht, 6,000 baht for a normal team and 1,200 baht for individuals. The winner will be given an trophy from Gen. Yutasak Sasiprapha, the president of the Olympic committee Thailand.
Walk-Run Competition to Doi Suthep
Date: 2nd November
084 739 5959, 081 796 8999, 087 301 2944 Mae Wang Communication and Supply with Wellcom mobile are hosting a walk-run competition to Doi Suthep. Proceeds going to the orphan foundation at Wat Don Jan School and Wat Doi Suthep for renovations. The winner will receive 100,000 baht and a trophy from Princess Ubonrat. The competition is on 2nd November and 5 a.m. at Kruba Sriwichai Monument Yard. The competition is organised by Mac Media Chiang Mai Co.,Ltd.
Wanted: Cocktail Connoisseurs of Chiang Mai
Date: 7th November
Living Room Bar 080 128 1381 (English), 086 115 5913 (Thai) or email at-livingroompub@hotmail.com The stylish @ Living Room Bar is hosting a night of true drinking indulgence to celebrate their first year anniversary. They're inviting people to come and sample a range of free cocktails to help them update their menu. Connoisseur status isn't mandatory - just come along, drink and vote on your favourites. The theme for the party is 'Masquerade' and they'll be prizes for party goers turning up in the most creative outfits. They're also looking for five volunteers for a special competition inviting people to create their own cocktails. If you're new to mixing, shaking and stirring, their experienced bartender will walk you through the basics and then you'll be let loose on the bar, free to come up with your own creations. There'll be prizes for the winners as well as the winning tipple becoming a regular feature on the @ Living Room Bar menu. The first five volunteers to email at-livingroompub@hotmail.com will qualify for the competition. Although having aged gracefully over the year, the bar itself has also been through a bit of a facelift. The anniversary party starts at 9:30 p.m.
Saturday 30 August 2008
September 2008's events.
Le Paradis des Fleurs
7th Communication Seminar & Exhibition
Date: 13th – 14th September Central Airport Plaza
081 235 2344, 083 044 8029 www.in4comm.com
The Faculty of Information and Communications at Maejo University is hosting a communication seminar and exhibition entitled ‘Korea’s trends . . . cultural communication’. The seminar includes Asianista! Boy & Girl 2008 contest and a Fashion Show by Chiang Mai’s Young Designers.
‘Sankamphaeng’ The city of handicrafts
Date: Every Saturday (until 20th September) Sankamphaeng District
Sankamphaeng district is hosing ‘The city of handicrafts fair’ every Saturday from 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Come see art and handicraft products by the people of Sankamphaen. Products include Saa-paper products, batik and weaved clothing, coconut shell art, wood carvings and more.
The 5th Industry Meet People Fair
TAT’s Invitation to the Elderly
Date: Now - 5th September TAT Chiang Rai
TAT Chiang Rai presents this new project for the elderly ‘Wai Pra Tat 9 Chom (9 Sacred Places)’ in Chiang Rai. They’re inviting 30 healthy elders over the age of 60 to make merit at 9 temples over 2 days and 1 night (hope they will be healthy still after such a trek!). The registration fee is 500 baht. All income generated will go to the 9 temples.
Mooncake at the Gold Leaf Chinese Restaurant
Date: 14th – 30th September The Imperial Mae Ping Hotel
053 283 900 ext 7057
Enjoy a wide selection of mooncakes with rich and diverse fillings. Available daily at lunch and dinner time. The Imperial Maeping is also offering ‘An Apple a Day’ specials. Available at the Mae Ping Coffee Shop and Rendez-vous Lobby Lounge.
| Date: 5th – 7th September |
 Central Airport Plaza053 944 847, 086 190 0699 The Faculty of Fine Arts is hosting this flower exhibition in cerebration of their 25th anniversary. The exhibition will include flower sculptures under the concept of ‘Romantic Classic’, a flower arranging demonstration and contest, a fashion show and more. The opening will take place on 5th September at 5 p.m. |
Date: 13th – 14th September Central Airport Plaza
081 235 2344, 083 044 8029 www.in4comm.com
The Faculty of Information and Communications at Maejo University is hosting a communication seminar and exhibition entitled ‘Korea’s trends . . . cultural communication’. The seminar includes Asianista! Boy & Girl 2008 contest and a Fashion Show by Chiang Mai’s Young Designers.
‘Sankamphaeng’ The city of handicrafts
Date: Every Saturday (until 20th September) Sankamphaeng DistrictSankamphaeng district is hosing ‘The city of handicrafts fair’ every Saturday from 3 p.m. - 10 p.m. Come see art and handicraft products by the people of Sankamphaen. Products include Saa-paper products, batik and weaved clothing, coconut shell art, wood carvings and more.
The 5th Industry Meet People Fair
| Date: 5th - 7th September |
| Northern Industrial Center, Tung Hotel Road 053 243 494 The Department of Industrial Promotion is hosting this prettily named ‘5th Industry Meet People Fair’ where there will be more than 250 workshops from 17 provinces with traders from the north such as Sahapat Group, CPF, etc. Interested people have the opportunity to participate in 22 free short-term professional training courses. The fair takes place over 3 days from 9 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. |
Date: Now - 5th September TAT Chiang Rai
TAT Chiang Rai presents this new project for the elderly ‘Wai Pra Tat 9 Chom (9 Sacred Places)’ in Chiang Rai. They’re inviting 30 healthy elders over the age of 60 to make merit at 9 temples over 2 days and 1 night (hope they will be healthy still after such a trek!). The registration fee is 500 baht. All income generated will go to the 9 temples.
Mooncake at the Gold Leaf Chinese Restaurant
Date: 14th – 30th September The Imperial Mae Ping Hotel053 283 900 ext 7057
Enjoy a wide selection of mooncakes with rich and diverse fillings. Available daily at lunch and dinner time. The Imperial Maeping is also offering ‘An Apple a Day’ specials. Available at the Mae Ping Coffee Shop and Rendez-vous Lobby Lounge.
Sunday 27 January 2008
Shopping in Chiang Mai
With a large range of unique goods for great prices, Chiang Mai is regarded as the shopping centre of the North. The quality of goods varies and prices are often reasonable – though bargaining is a must. Known as the handicraft centre of Thailand, and one of the best in Asia, visitors come from around the world to purchase silver, rattan, ceramics, antiques, clothing and silk.
Chiang Mai’s best-known shopping centre is the Night Bazaar, which consists of two sidewalks packed with vendors displaying their goods every evening till midnight. Clothes and Thai handicrafts fill the market, as well as silver and other hill tribe items. Borsang village is worth visiting for its unique umbrellas, while San Kamphaeng houses a handicraft centre ideal for buying wholesale items. But the most rewarding shopping district, especially for wood, furniture, handicrafts and home décor items is Baan Tawai artisans village south of the city, which has an astonishing range of delightful and great value products.
The centre of town offers many handicraft shops, though only a few sell real quality items – noted by the slightly higher price. Jewellers, tailors and gem dealers can be found through out the city. For a more western approach to shopping, Chiang Mai boosts two malls, Central Kad Suan Kaew and Robinson’s Airport Plaza. Brands such as Guess and Esprit are represented in Airport Plaza, while Central is for the local crowd with many shops selling a variety of every day clothes and jewellery at good prices. The university area sells ridiculously cheap items that Thai students love – such as model phone ornaments and room decorations. Many of the clothes and shoes, along with electrical gadgets are locally manufactured and quality well-known brands sell for much cheaper. The following are some recommended shops and outlets for shopping in Chiang Mai.Credit : www.guidelines.com
Friday 25 January 2008
Chiangmai Baan Tawai Crafts
Chiang Mai province has always been famous for producing many of Thailand’s wonderful handicrafts and these are mostly produced in the artisan village of Baan Tawai. Taking a trip to this busy and intriguing centre, 30 minutes drive south of the city, is a rewarding half day shopping tour, enabling you to see the craftsmen at work and pick up the best prices for these charming items.
At Baan Tawai you will find numerous arcades selling everything from wood carvings and interior décor items, to souvenirs, art, sculpture, ceramics, furniture, toys, fabrics, antiques, murals and more. Some of them can fit in your luggage, others can be shipped home by one of several agents on hand, at a reasonable cost. Acquiring unique household items here, no matter how bulky, is a popular and cost-effective way of furnishing your home with Asian arts. In fact, retailers from all over the world beat a path here to make wholesale orders.
At Baan Tawai you will find numerous arcades selling everything from wood carvings and interior décor items, to souvenirs, art, sculpture, ceramics, furniture, toys, fabrics, antiques, murals and more. Some of them can fit in your luggage, others can be shipped home by one of several agents on hand, at a reasonable cost. Acquiring unique household items here, no matter how bulky, is a popular and cost-effective way of furnishing your home with Asian arts. In fact, retailers from all over the world beat a path here to make wholesale orders.
Some of the outdoor shops are delightfully decorated, with water features and boutique garden fixtures, so that even window shopping for ideas is rewarding. There are also several eateries on hand to quench your appetite.The following are some of our recommended businesses from Baan Tawai.
Note! Many of these services can be found advertising in our magazine with more details and thai directions for taxi drivers.
credit articlec : www.guidelines.com
Hotels reservation
Saturday 19 January 2008
Chiang Mai Night Market - Bazaar
Chiang Mai’s most famous area, the Night Market (Night Bazaar), is the best place to shop for unique souvenirs and items. Two long sidewalks, stretching along several blocks of Chan Klan road make up the Night Market and are crowded with small shops selling handicrafts and miscellaneous items from all over the region. A wide variety of things can be bought here, ranging from knock-off designer goods to hand-woven baskets and ornaments. Bargaining is a must here and most tourists seem to enjoy the opportunity to mark down prices.
The streets are crowded until 12pm, when the frenetic experience finally winds up. Even for wholesale handicrafts, the Night Market is a good place to start with your window shopping. Hill tribe women and their children walk through crowds displaying their goods on their arms and in little baskets; they may be persistent, but a simple shaking of the head often sends them away. Like all crowded tourist destinations, pickpocketing does occur and belongings should be kept close.Western influence is noted in the Night Bazaar area, with Starbucks, Subway and McDonalds being the prime locations to relax and marvel at ones purchases. Transportation to the Night Market area is easy to come by (“night bazaar” is understood by all modes of public transport) and getting a ride out is not a problem, with songtaews and tuk-tuks lined on the street. Besides, it’s so central you can practically walk from here to your hotel or a nearby restaurant and bar.
The Night Market offers a unique shopping experience and is a definite must-see when visiting
Chiang Mai, few people leave empty handed as the goods on display are so cheap (cheapest in Thailand generally), and the Thai handicrafts charming and delightful. Below are some recommended businesses at the night market.
Chiang Mai, few people leave empty handed as the goods on display are so cheap (cheapest in Thailand generally), and the Thai handicrafts charming and delightful. Below are some recommended businesses at the night market.credit : www.guidelines.com
Tours of Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is widely known for its vast choice of activities in and around the city, ranging from visiting the national museum to experiencing the hill tribe way of life. Tours of Chiang Mai city present an ideal way to get a thorough understanding of the rich heritage of culture, history and natural beauty that Chiang Mai has. Prices for Chiang Mai tours depend largely on the duration of the tour as well as the level of comfort. Cheap walking tours can be as low as a couple hundred baht, while others consist of air-conditioned mini vans customised to specific destinations and interests, such as shopping or national parks. Sizes of tours vary from single, couple and group tours.
Tours often take guests to Chiang Mai’s most famous attractions, such as Doi Suithep mountain and its highly sanctified temple, the moat and old town with its numerous ancient temples, the Night Bazaar and Baan Tawai for shopping, or the excavated ruins of Viang Khum Kham – which pre-date the present 700 year old city. Other areas of multiple attractions include the Mae Sa Valley, with its beautiful waterfall, elephant camp, botanical garden and numerous activities for the whole family including bungee jumping and animal shows. San Khampeng is another interesting area east of the city which boasts the Bo Sang Umbrella village, handicraft wholesales, hotsprings and the cavernous Mae On cave. Other day trips include visits to Doi Inthanon National Park (the country’s highest point), and the older city of Lamphun and temples in Lampang. Multi day tours from Chiang Mai can even be arranged to the Golden Triangle and Mae Hong Son.
Tours of Chiang Mai can be arranged within the city centre from numerous operators that are ubiquitous. We recommend the following tour operators.
Credit : www.guidelines.com
Tuesday 15 January 2008
Chiang Mai Courses and activities
Courses in Chiang Mai are plentiful and are offered at reasonable prices. Favoured courses include Thai cooking and jewellery making. There are several cooking schools in the city centre such as the well-known Chiang Mai cookery school and booking only needs to be done a day ahead. Cooking courses include going to a local Thai market and being told how to select fruits and vegetables, then taught how to make a delicious meal, and to end it all everyone gets to taste each others results. Massage course and Thai language course are also offered by several companies or institutions in the city, with courses ranging from one week to several months.
There are enough activities in Chiang Mai to keep one occupied regardless of the length of stay. Paint balling, mini-golf, archery and horse riding are largely accommodated and offer the needed facilities. The newly built X-Park offers ATV bikes, rock climbing and paint balling. There are many companies that facilitate bungee jumping at various locations in the North. Shooting ranges offer visitors an opportunity to shoot off rounds at cheap prices.A leisurely activity to enjoy on the outskirts of Chiang Mai is golfing. There are numerous golf courses in close proximity to the centre of town, which often offer free transportation. Gassan is the biggest golf centre in the North of Thailand and offers a resort.
Muay Thai is internationally popular and is largely practiced in Chiang Mai, with several accredited Muay Thai camps (along with some of the oldest). Visitors can take courses depending on the length of their stay, though 3 weeks is the standard. Stern camps are notorious for giving their students several daily mile runs and hundreds of squats and push-ups. Courses also depend on agility and strength of the student, as the tough courses may be too much for some.Credit Article : www.guidelines.com
Chiang Mai Spas and Health
With the opening of numerous spas and health care facilities, Chiang Mai is slowly gaining recognition in the spa and health industry and offers some of the best value worldwide for pampering yourself with the luxurious treat. Consisting of a blend of serenity and calmness, Chiang Mai’s natural surroundings bring spa treatment to a different level. Individual treatments, as well as special promotion packages, are a perfect way to spend either an hour or a whole day. Treatments and therapies at most of the Chiang Mai spas include facials, scrubs, wraps, foot and body massages. Jacuzzis, saunas and steam baths are available at spas and gyms around the city.Enjoy a unique blend of Thai herbs accompanied by modern and ancient techniques at some of the most noted spas in Chiang Mai. Trained specialists bring those who indulge in a spa experience to a better state of health, tranquillity and beauty. Be pampered in surroundings most comfortable to you, ranging from private garden villas to open bamboo huts.
Wellness centers are starting to gain popularity amongst both locals and visitors. Whether one wants blood analysis – where one drop of blood shows what vitamins are required for a healthy body – or to experience infrared sauna therapy, spas in Chiang Mai provide the facilities needed to nurture your body. Massage is another art Thais are famous for and the traditional Thai massage is offered all across the city by genuine massage shops. They range from high quality in-spa or hotel venues, to cheap places with a mattress on the floor of traditional shop house. The (mostly) ladies all usually have some sort of training, but quality varies. Few are associated with sleazy impression some people have of Thai ‘massage parlours’. For as little as 120 baht an hour you can indulge in a relaxing experience to ease tired ‘traveller’ muscles. For spas and expert massage in Chiang Mai we recommend the following wellness centres below.
Hotels Booking in Chiangmai.
Sunday 13 January 2008
Chiangmai National Park.
Doi Suthep - Pui National Park is in the area of Amphoe Mae Rim, Amphoe Hang Dong and Amphoe Muang, covering 262.5 square kilometers. Doi Suthep - Pui National Park is noted for its dense forests and watershed areas and is blessed with the most beautiful environment housing important places of historical and religious interest.The park is only 5 kilometers from Chiang Mai and accessible from the Huai Kaeo - Chiang Mai University - Chiang Mai zoo road which goes to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Voraviharn. From there you can walk upwards for a short while and then turn right toward the office of Doi Suthep National Park.
The attractions in the area of the Doi Suthep - Pui National Park are :
Namtok Huai Kaeo is a waterfall near Chiang Mai Zoo, 6 kms. from town. It's delightful atmosphere makes it the ideal place for picnics.
Phu Phing Palace is on Doi Buak Ha, about 4 kms. from Doi Suthep. Phu Phing Palace is the winter Palace and open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays as well as holidays, when the Thai Royal Family is not in residence.
Huai Nam Dang National Park, is about 60 kilometers along Mae Malai - Pai Highway and 6 kilometers on turning right. It commands a breathtaking view of seas of mist, flower beds and Lisu tribal people. Points of interest are Doi Chang, Doi Kiu Rom, Pong Ron Hot Spring, Namtok Mae Yen, etc.Huai Nam Dang is another area known for beautiful scenery especially in winter, when breathtaking views of mountains are shrounded under a sea of mist and the path along the foothills of the vantage point (Doi Kiew Lom) is covered with beautiful flowers in full bloom.
Mae Sa Waterfall National Park
On the highway 1096 at kilometer 7, you can visit the Mae Sa Waterfall National Park which is located in Mae Rim district. This is quite a famous waterfall with water cascading down and eight-tiered hillside, covered with evergreen trees and bushes. It is a cool and comfortable place all-year-round and seems to attract people from the local area, Thai citizens and visitors from overseas.
Doi Inthanon National Park
Doi Inthanon is one of Thailand's most famous National Park and one of the best equipped to welcome visitors. It is situated in the area of three Amphoes : Chom Thong, San Pa Tong and Mae Cheam, and covers some 1,005 square kilometers. It offers marvellous natural scenery. Shooting, fishing and causing damage to trees and plants are strictly forbidden.
To get to Doi Inthanon take Highway No.1009 at KM. 57 up to the top of Doi Inthanon for a distance of 48 kms. Attractions within the park include :
Namtok Mae Ya is 12 kms. from Chom Thong Market. Access to the falls is best made through local minibus. Namtok Mae Ya is one of the large and beautiful waterfalls in Chiang Mai.Namtok Mae Klang is at kms. 8 on Highway No.1009 . Namtok Mae Klang is a big cascade with a scenic spot for picnics.
Namtok Wachirathan is on the route to Doi Inthanon, 30 minutes drive from Namtok Mae Klang. Namtok Wachirathan is a beautiful scenic spot for picnics.
Namtok Siriphum is on the same route, an hour's drive from Namtok Mae Klang.
The National Park's Office is located at Km. 31. Accommodation are available here. Reservation can be made through the National Park Division, Royal Forestry Department, Tel. 579-0529, 579-4842.Doi Inthanon Royal Project is located on the right at Km. 3.1, one kilometre away from the main road. Main crops are cold climate flowers. Tourists can view flower nurseries and cultivation.
Yot Doi Inthanon is the ending point of this route is the highest mountain top of Thailand. The weather is rather cold all year round. Some rare species of plants are found such as Khao Tok Rusi (a kind of succulent plant), Kulab Panpi (Rhododendron). Also established here is the stupa in which the relics of the Chiang Mai's part ruler, Chao Inthawichayanon, have been keptMonday 7 January 2008
ChiangMai Hotels Reservation.
Hotels, Resorts and accommodation
As The top tourist destination of the North, Chiang Mai, is loaded with resorts and hotels, ranging largely in price and accommodation. Recently, Chiang Mai has developed several five-star accommodations such as the Mandarin Oriental Dhara Dhevi, D2, and the Chedi. Backpackers enjoy the hospitality of cheap guesthouses located in and around the city centre. There are also many moderately priced lodges available and are noticeably different in presentation.
Hotels in Chiang Mai are fully facilitated and offer a variety of things to do, inclunding pools, fitness centres, several restaurants, bars, lobby shops and tour operators. Many hotels are centrally located in the Night Bazaar area, while more exclusive boutiques lodges and backpacker guesthouses are found down the narrow lanes of the old town nearby and might be a little quieter. For a truly peaceful experience why not choose one of the beautifully located resorts outside of the city in lush natural environments, yet only 30 minutes drive from the city. On the whole Chiang Mai hotels are very good value for money. You’ll have no trouble finding a decent hotel at last minute in Chiang Mai, though reserving ahead of time during peak season is advisable. Below are some of our recommended accommodation options.
Credit article : http://www.compasscm.com/
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