Hotels near Chiang Mai International Airport - CNX, Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai is mostly flat; the old town being defined by a rectangular "moat" . There are many interesting temple sites and places where markets are held, some of which are quite special. The people are delightful and are used to their town being inundated with foreigners. There is plenty of nightlife when the temperature is easier than the daytime heat. There is a huge range of eateries. The street food I found much preferable to some of the food "courts" especially set up for visitors. Shopping is endless. The clinics are also.

I loved it in Chiang Mai. The temples are beautiful, the Chiang Mai night bazaar was lovely (probably one of my favorite night markets, as they had shopping, food, and Muay Thai fights), and many day trips available. The nicest elephant sanctuaries seem to be located here as well. I went to Chai Lai Orchid for a day at the elephant sanctuary and had the greatest time of my life. The only downside about Chiang Mai was I went in April which happens to be burning season. Air quality wasn't great. It was considered "Unhealthy" throughout my stay but that didn't stop me from being outside and doing activities. Just be careful.

I had a friend who was able to give me a head start in getting around the town and district. Also on one day I hired a driver for about 3 hours to drive me around to the sights he thought were worth visiting. That was very cheap, 1000THB and good value. Just make sure their English is good enough for what you want, otherwise it would be a pain. The town is really clean. No rubbish to speak of anywhere. Most of the action is from about 10.00 am through to midnight when it is the cooler hours of the day. The fresh food markets are very interesting to get an idea of how the Thai people transact business. An interesting place to visit is the Museum of Makers. Doesn't get much of a write-up but worth it. It is an arts and crafts location with very good quality items - clothes, jewellery, furniture, coffee. The building is great architecture, modern Thai.

Chang Mai is much bigger than I had realised. It has some historical sites, including the obligatory temples, and unique city walls and gates, as well as lots of activities for nature lovers, animal lovers and those that like "doing" things like canoeing, rafting etc. We went on a tour with Annie to the Sticky waterfalls, which was brilliant, and also did a night tuk tuk tour to several temples and the markets which we really enjoyed, and attended a Khantoke dinner and show, which was excellent. There were also lots of places to eat in the numerous markets, and lots of places that offer cheap massages. I would recommend flying here (cheap and frequent flights) and then doing lots of day trips/ activities from here, including the white temple and blue temple located in Chaing Rai. Note, it is a few degrees cooler here than Bangkok - a blessing for us as the rainy season is just starting and it is very hot and humid here (late May)

Chiang- Mai has changed over the years; several places were closed during the pandemic but never reopened. The city is now more international, with a growing number of Chinese tourists and residents. Northern culture and local warm hospitality still remain.

Chiang Mai was so chill that I almost forgot my cell phone. I could enjoy the city without using my phone which just like I had left every bad memory behind in my own country and enjoyed the present of the atmosphere of the City. I then understood why my co-worker visit Chiang Mai every single year. Besides, the food was so affordable and extremely delicious. We are planning to go to Chiang Mai soon with my friend again shortly.