October 23 2020

Thailand: Chiang Rai

Chiang Rai is known for its White Temple and it really is as stunning as it looks in the pictures. But it’s not just the glittering White Temple that will draw you in- the surrounding enclosure with its cartoon characters and small details to be discovered will capture your interest just as much!

“This small, amiable city is worth getting to know, with its relaxed atmosphere, fine local food and good-value accommodation. This is despite the fact that Chiang Rai Province has such a diversity of attractions that its capital is often overlooked. It’s also the logical base from which to plan excursions to the more remote corners of the province.” – Lonely Planet

Chiang Rai

Coming

Getting to and from

Where to Eat Chiang Rai´s most iconic dishes

Chiang Rai Restaurants – Where and what to eat

Eating

Sleeping

Where to stay

25 Awesome things to do

The White Temple

The Black House

Doing

Staying

An easy day trip from Chiang Mai or spend a few extra days exploring more than just the White Temple.

Head south to Chiang Mai or make your way up to the border to head over to Laos.

For more general information on traveling Thailand such as visas, money, Covid updates and more, visit my Thailand travel page.

Going

October 21 2020

Thailand: Pai

Roam Wild Asia Thailand 0

If you’re looking to kick back, relax and get away for however long, than Pai is the place for you. Small town mountain vibes make it easy to slow down and take it all in. Chase waterfalls and explore canyons during the day and relax or party all night.

“First-time visitors to Pai (ปาย) might wonder if they’ve strayed into a northern version of a Thai island getaway, only without the beaches. Guesthouses appear to outnumber private residences in the ‘downtown’ area, a travel agency or restaurant is never more than a few steps away and the nights buzz with the sound of music and partying.” – Lonely Planet

Pai

Coming

Be prepared for a bumpy ride with some twisty turny roads, especially if you take a minivan. Those prone to motion sickness might request to sit up front. I would very seriously advise not to be hungover for this journey.

Getting there and back from Chiang Mai

With such an influx of visitors there are a ton of great food options both local and Western.

Food Guide: where to eat in Pai, Thailand

All the Food You Should Eat in Pai, Thailand

Eating

Sleeping

Where to Stay – Good hostel options

Where to Stay – Good options for all budgets

17 Epic Things to Do

Doing

Staying

Most come for a few days but don’t be surprised if you’re sucked in by the chill atmosphere to stay for longer.

Head back to Chiang Mai and take it from there.

For more general information on traveling Thailand such as visas, money, Covid updates and more, visit my Thailand travel page.

Going

October 19 2020

Thailand: Chiang Mai

Roam Wild Asia Thailand 0

In my opinion if you’re only doing one thing in Thailand, Chiang Mai is the answer. There might not be any beaches up here but it’s the heart of the country.

Chiang Mai

Coming

Chiang Mai International Airport (CMX) is the main airport for Northern Thailand and connects to much of SE Asia and the rest of Thailand. From the airport it is a cheap and short journey into town. Find detailed info HERE.

Bus trips in Thailand are extremely comfortable and affordable, if a bit long. The seats are spacious and they offer movies (sometimes only in Thai, sometimes available in English). Make sure they bring something warm to cover up with as the AC gets chilly at night. Buses leave regularly from Bangkok’s Mo Chit station. The trip takes about 10 hours, the later the better to save yourself overnight accommodation.

You can also take the train from Bangkok which is around 12 hours with bunks available both with and without air conditioning.

Big red trucks called songthaews are the most common way to get around the city. Negotiate a price beforehand and ask your accommodation what a normal price is to get to where you’re needing to go.

Northern Thai food takes flavors and influences from its neighbors, make sure not to miss out on some incredible tastes and dishes that you won’t find elsewhere in the country.

15 Best Authentic Chiang Mai Food and Where to Eat It

11 Must-Eat Restaurants and Street Food Stalls

10 Must try Restaurants

Eating

Sleeping

Where to Stay (All budgets)

Another all budgets guide on where to stay

43 Absolute Best Things to Do in Chiang Mai

Best things to do in Chiang Mai

8 Day Trips

Doing

Responsible Tourism in Thailand

6 Things NOT to do in Thailand

Songkran

3-4 days is doable but rushed, I would suggest closer to 6-7 days.

Staying

Going

Myanmar and Laos are your closest options internationally but CM airport services many other international destinations. If you’re staying domestic then Pai and Chiang Rai are both nearby or head south to Bangkok on your way to the islands.

For more general information on traveling Thailand such as visas, money, Covid updates and more, visit my Thailand travel page.