THAILAND 1

INTRODUCTION

Northern Thailand is one of the most diverse areas on earth. Culturally rich and containing some of the most beautiful scenery in the country it provides an ideal location for a wide range of interested parties. Steeped in a rich colorful identity all of her own Chiang Mai submits an opulent combination of modern city life in parallel with unique age old charm. The city teems with elaborate temples and cultural relics, some originating since the cities inception some 700 years ago. Doi Suthep monastery crowns the mountain overlooking the fertile valley which embraces Chiang Mai. In the city’s famous night bazaar local traders, modern department stores and exotic tribal arrivals combine offering bargains for all.

The city also boasts of numerous international restaurants of all kinds as well as a thriving night life. Nearby Sankampaeng is busy with the time honored crafts of local artisans. Here the crafts folk utilize their traditional skills to produce intricate products from hand made umbrellas, teak furniture, leather goods, silver / bronze objects and hand made spun silk.

You do not have to travel too far to reach the lush rain forest and exotic tribes that host, just some, of the adventure highlights that have made the North a favored intrepid visitors destination for over two decades.

Simple tribal villages adorn the mountain sides and offer simple overnight lodgings for adventurous wayfarers. Bamboo rafts are constructed to navigate the many rivers and elephants are harnessed to provide novel transportation means for the adventurer. The sights, sounds and scents of the forest will leave an indelible mark of enchantment on visitors of all ages. Mighty waterfalls proliferate throughout the area naturally supplying an ideal picnic point. The cool, benevolent climate of the North encourages vast assortments of fruit, vegetables and plants to flourish. Visitors can purchase this delicious mouth watering morsels at incredibly low prices.

The latest addition to the areas attractions includes a new conservation site for elephants and the surrounding forest.