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Curator’s statement
When I was 17 years old, I did a humanitarian trip for three weeks in Mexico. I not only fell in love with Mexico, but I fell in love with humanitarian work. This led me to prepare for a four-month humanitarian trip in Thailand. I lived in a small farming village called Phichit but since I lived there for so long, I was able to see and do a lot. On my humanitarian trip I taught young Thai children English. Thailand has a special place in my heart and I hope it finds one in yours too!
The Fora Difference
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay in Chiang Mai
Raya Heritage
Luxurious boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Northern Thailand's lush Chiang Mai region, offering a serene and culturally immersive retreat along the banks of the Ping River.
Fora Perks
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Rachamankha Boutique Hotel
An oasis of tranquility in Chiang Mai, Thailand, offering timeless elegance, traditional Lanna architecture, and a serene courtyard, providing a refined and culturally rich experience in the heart of the historic city.
Hoh Guesthouse
Experience a cozy and authentic Thai experience at this charming and budget-friendly accommodation in the heart of Chiang Mai.
Amaka Cafe Bed & Breakfast
An ideal base for exploring Chiang Mai's vibrant culture and rich history, offering a charming blend of cozy accommodations and a delightful café experience, featuring modern, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.
Unlock perks by contacting Anna to book your trip.
Things to do in Chiang Mai
Visit the tigers: Make sure you choose an ethical sanctuary, I visited Tiger Kingdom and had a wonderful experience.
Spend an afternoon with the elephants: Chai Lai Orchid in Chiang Mai is great for an overnight stay as well as other adventures as well! Nothing speaks quite as much to a southeast Asian experience as being with these majestic beasts.
Visit numerous different temples: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep is the most famous but there are so many more!
Spend a night at the night market (Saturdays/Sundays): You cannot miss this! streets on streets on handmade items, and amazing food! Elephant pants are a must!
Take a cooking class, or two: Siam Rice - The Cookery School is my fave, I went there twice!
Doi Inthanon National Park: This park was absolutely amazing. You can spend hours soaking in the beauty.
Take a history tour of old town: Make sure to pass by the ancient ruins of the city gate! And Wat Chiang Mai.
Catch a lantern festival In October or November: Have a real life Tangled experience where all the magic began.
Explore around your hotel: Maybe pop into a local food shop, or grab something off the street, I try to find a local smoothie shop wherever I stay. This is a great way to find hidden gems!
Day Trips
Chiang Mai Grand Canyon: Head over to this large lake for a nice cool off in the refreshing waters!
White Temple at Chiang Rai: Visit this out of this world temple, and add the blue temple to your list to see as well!
Places to eat & drink in Chiang Mai
Salsa Kitchen: This is one of the main restaurants in Chiang Mai and I ate there every time I was in the city
Larder Cafe: Not only amazing breakfast but AMAZING smoothies! For those craving some Western favorties
Pathom: Traditional Thai Breakfast!
Khao Soi Prince Maejo Halal Food: This place serves what's now considered the dish of Chiang Mai: Khao Soi. A little bit of a drive outside the city
SP Chicken: Must try the rotisserie styled chicken!
Ahka Ama Coffee: Supposedly the best priced coffee in the world, as well as numerous other breaky type options to get your fix.
Auny Aoy Kitchen: Favored among all. Can't forget the local hole in the wall places that wont show up on the map when your’e walking through the markets or find someone who may not always be serving up grub
Travel Advisor
Anna Reid
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to Chiang Mai. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Travel Advisor Pam Khemnark travel guide, Make a Splash in Thailand: A Complete Guide to Celebrating Songkran Festival.