Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
two sulphurous hot springs, the government-operated San Kamphaeng Hot Springs and the
private Roong Aroon Hot Springs. Whichever you choose you are in for a treat. The Thai
people believe that the hot water has therapeutic properties sogive it a try! There are a vari-
ety of pools and tubs for soaking depending on your party size. From the ticket office you
can buy chicken eggs and cook them in the hot springs for a little lunch after your bath.
Just remember that the sulphur in the tub will make you smell like a cooked egg as well so
grab a shower when you return to town.
For more leisurely sports check out one of the ten golf courses in the area or hit the tennis
courts. You can relax with a Thai massage from one of the local schools, like the Blind
Institute. To treat yourself to fine cuisine you don't need to look any further than Ruen
Tamarind, in Tamarind Village. After a few days of sampling food from the markets and
you may want to learn how to cook it yourself. There are many cooking classes available
thatwillteachyouthefarmtotabletechniques tocreate thesameflavorsinyourownhome
to share with friends and family when you return.
Be sure to experience some of the local nightlife at Nimmanhaemin and have a cold one
at the Beer Republic. To find more action about town head on over to the Good View Bar
& Restaurant, and then to The Riverside Bar & Restaurant. At both you can listen to live
music while overlooking the Ping river, trading stories about your adventures that day. Get
there early because they fill up right after dinner no matter the time of year.
Chiang Mai has plenty of activities and things to do to keep you occupied for a few days
if not a few weeks. You can even play with tigers if you're looking for a real rush. Don't
worry, your last words won't be "Look ma no hands", the tigers have been raised in cap-
tivity and are accustomed to tourists. There have been reports of mistreatment of the tigers
so carefully consider your visit. As with any activities involving animals it is better to pay
more for an ethical tour operator than the cheapest. Many raft and hike tours also include
an elephant ride for participants, without a doubt an exciting thrill. However remember that
it is better to choose the company carefully to ensure that the elephants are well cared for
and not overworked. An alternative to elephant rides for those who are keen on interacting
with the gentle giants is to visit and volunteer at the Elephant Nature Park located in the
Mae Taeng valley, about 37 miles from Chiang Mai. You can come for the day or for an up
close and personal experience you can arrange to volunteer for a week.
