CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

In recent years, the population of Chiang Mai has grown very quickly, and the city is now one of Thailand's largest, with a population of more than 1,500,000. Growth has brought with it concerns about air pollution and rush-hour traffic, though these are not nearly as bad as in Bangkok. Other problems have occurred as a result of the influx of tourists. These include deforestation and the displacement of tribal people in nearby hills and valleys to make way for resorts and roads. Despite all this, Chiang Mai retains a magical charm. It is an exciting city with a rich cultural heritage offering numerous sights and activities for the visitor.

Some major attractions include historical and religious buildings, bustling markets, nature parks, and stores selling an incredible variety of handcrafted products. Chiang Mai is much smaller than Bangkok and, even if you are unfamiliar with maps, it is fairly easy to find your way around. Perhaps the best place to start is the old city. This central part of Chiang Mai is contained within four walls and a moat, originally built for defense. The walls date back to... more