Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The only reason to stay in or around Sop Ruak is to take advantage of some of northern
Thailand's best upscale lodgings; those on a budget are advised to go to Chiang Saen.
There are several tourist-oriented restaurants overlooking the Mekong River.
HOTEL $$$
Four Seasons Tented Camp
( 0 5391 0200; www.fourseasons.com ; tents per night, all-inclusive 79,000-89,000B; ) If you can
fit it into your schedule (and budget), this safari-inspired resort is among the most truly
unique accommodation experiences in Thailand. The 'tents' are appropriately luxurious
and decked out in colonial-era safari paraphernalia. A minimum stay of at least two nights
is required, and guests take part in daily activities ranging from mahout training to spa
treatment.
Anantara Golden Triangle
Resort & Spa
( 0 5378 4084; www.anantara.com ; Rte 1290; r & ste per night all-inclusive 36,500-44,000B; ) This
award-winning resort takes up a large patch of beautifully landscaped ground directly op-
posite the Hall of Opium. The rooms combine Thai and international themes, and all have
balconies looking over the Mekong River. Squash and tennis courts, gym, sauna and spa
round out the luxury amenities, and activities, ranging from elephant training to cooking
courses, are included in most packages.
HOTEL $$$
Getting There & Away
There are frequent sŏrng·tăa·ou to Chiang Saen (20B, from 7am to noon) and Mae Sai
(45B, every 40 minutes from 8am to 1pm), both of which can be flagged down along the
main strip. Minivans to Chiang Rai (50B, one hour, hourly from 6am to 5pm) wait in the
parking lot west of Phra Chiang Saen Si Phaendin. It's an easy bi-cycle ride of 9km from
Chiang Saen to Sop Ruak.
TOP OF CHAPTER
Chiang Khong
POP 12,000
More remote yet livelier than its neighbour Chiang Saen, Chiang Khong is historically an
important market town for local hill tribes and for trade with northern Laos. At one time
the city was part of a small meu·ang (city-state) called Juon, founded in AD 701 by King
 
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