| Top Contributors |  |  |
| There are two main methods of travel to Chiang Mai – bus and rail. Airplanes are also an option – and for those traveling from nearby countries they might be much better than going through Bangkok – but most people arrive on the ground.
The bus is a shorter trip – and cheaper. Usually that’s a winning combination. A number of buses depart during the day, and take a number of hours – the length of time varies greatly according to traffic and when you leave Bangkok (streets are not nearly so horrific in Chiang Mai, although the smaller city has its share of jams as well).
The train travels slowly. However, for those not in a rush, it can be much more pleasant. For one thing, two overnight trains depart from Bangkok in the evening. You can save on accommodation for the night and relax along the way (a third train travels throughout the day, but this is the worst of all worlds).
Also, the trains tend to be pretty social. Dining cars turn into low-tech discos around 8 p.m., and you'll have neighbors of every nationality. Your berth is fairly comfortable (lower beds moreso, but at an uptick in price). Waiters also patrol the cars selling beer and food.
One drawback to the trains is they don’t provide a lot of room for larger pieces of luggage. If you’re traveling with a couple large duffels, you might prefer the belly of the bus.
|
Chiang Mai has a new bus system which goes most places throughout the city, but it still has some kinks and many locals haven’t figured it out yet (partially because it is changing with experience). Tuk-tuks aren’t hard to find in any part of the city, although Sawngthaew are particularly plentiful here. (Sawngthaew are covered pick-up trucks with two benches lining the bed. 20 baht is a fairly standard fee, and you are likely to share your ride with others).
Also, renting a motorbike or car is very economical and, considering the wealth of beauty just outside the city, the preferred method for many people.
|
Also unlike Bangkok, Chiang Mai is fairly easy to navigate. It’s centered around the old walled city, which is ringed by a moat. Much of the wall is still standing, and you could walk its entire perimeter in about an hour.
East of the old city is the Ping River (running north-south), with much of the action lying between the two. The railway station is east of the river, and the airport is in the southwest corner. Doi Suthep is one of the larger and more famous mountains in the area, off to the northwest. With Chiang Mai’s general lack of height and towering landmarks surrounding it, figuring out where you are isn’t too difficult.
|
Ratings for |   |
| |
|
