Chiang Mai is a shopping paradise, simply because there is such a wide range of unusual goods at knock down prices. The quality is variable but the value for money undeniable, and most leave with much fuller luggage than when they arrived. When visiting Thailand it’s advisable to leave your shopping for Chiang Mai, it’s considered one of the cheapest places in Thailand and getting about town is easy.Chiang Mai - a shoppers’ paradiseChiang Mai - a shoppers’ paradise Chiang Mai is one of the handicraft centres of Asia, and not surprisingly many of the market traders from overseas come here to source their goods. Silk, silver, clothing, rattan, ceramics, interior décor, antiques, Buddhist art, lacquer and neilloware—the list of options is endless for shopping in Chiang Mai. The centre...

We’ve had some incredible birthday parties with guest attending from around the world. Our Australian Surfer friend, Rex and his lovely wife (who did most of the work) planned a 50th birthday party at Foxy Lady that was attended by top surfers together their spouses from Bali, Hawaii, California, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The bar girls were blown away and so were the guests. “Hang eleven.” Years later, Rex’s 50th is still talked about around town and I’m sure his guests are still in shock. Sporting events are also a perfect venue. Club Foxy Lady sponsors local golf tournaments and is a sponsor for the famous Chiang-mai Cricket International Tournament that takes place annually. You can laugh with the bloopers just as hard as the crowd hoots and hollers with a spectacular...

The Ancient City, or Muang Boran in Thai, is a relatively little known park dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of this country. Located 50 mins driving from the center of Bangkok the best way to get there is by taxi, but of course you have to make sure that the taxi meter is working. In my case only the third taxi “happened” to have the taxi meter working, so the cost was...

For many Chiang Mai is the second Thai must see destination after Bangkok; at least if you're on a cultural trip rather than a sun & beaches trip. It sounds intriguing indeed, with less stress, traffic and confusion than Bangkok, and many temples (30 just inside the small old city) to be visited. The countryside, with tribe villages, jungle treks and rivers to explore bamboo rafting are just outside...