| Most people associate Thailand with Bangkok, | | | | the pristine nature and variety of hilltribe villages |
| Pattaya, Phuket and the islands. However there is | | | | scattered throughout the area. Then there are |
| much more to the country than the beaches of | | | | countless other cultural, historic and natural |
| the south, a whole other world in fact. | | | | wonders ranging from temples, caves, museums |
| 700km north of Bangkok lies the capital of the | | | | to waterfalls. |
| North - Chiang Mai, the launching pad for any | | | | Outside of Chiang Mai one could spend weeks |
| travelers journeys around the North. So why | | | | exploring the rural provinces of Mae Hong Son and |
| should one make the journey up there? | | | | Chiang Rai visiting remote areas and villages near |
| Well for those seeking a more cultured, authentic | | | | the Thailand Burma border. This area is rich in |
| and historic experience the North is the place to | | | | traditional culture, hilltribes and breathtaking |
| go. The North shows a different side to Thailand - | | | | scenery. |
| less touristic and commercialised than the south | | | | The north of Thailand is characterised by it's |
| means that it is often cheaper too. Another | | | | sweeping mountain landscapes, forests, waterfalls |
| advantage is the cooler climate, during winter | | | | and temples. The pace is much slower and outside |
| daytime temperatures are a more moderate | | | | of the towns there is an air of serenity and |
| 25-30 degrees, in the highlands temperatures can | | | | calmness. Another important facet are it's people |
| even dip to as low as 10 degrees something | | | | - Northern Thais are renown for their gentle |
| unexpected for the tropical temperatures most | | | | nature and kindness perhaps a result of their |
| people associate with Thailand. | | | | surroundings in fertile and abundant countryside. |
| The hub of Chiang Mai is much more laid back | | | | Even beach lovers end up falling for the lure of |
| than it's Bangkok counterpart, yet has the same | | | | the north and many make repeat visits. The |
| endless possibilities for activities and sightseeing. It | | | | north offers something for all ages and tastes, it |
| is a great destination for soft adventure activities | | | | is somewhere where you can surround yourself in |
| such as; ziplining through the forest, cycling, white | | | | the lush nature, kick back and relax or be as |
| water rafting and elephant riding. Trekking is | | | | active as you want. |
| probably the most popular activity here due to | | | | |