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BANGKOK
The capital of Thailand is one of the worlds most exciting and exotic cities. Here you find an interesting intermingling of the old and new cultures, something that makes it quite unique among the capital cities of the world. In Bangkok you will find a fascinating hodge-podge of people, skyscrapers, hectic and chaotic traffic, overflowing market places, tailors, large, modern shopping centres, as well as flashy disco’s and night clubs. Bangkok offers something for everyone. If you have a need for peace and reflection, you will find this in one of the city’s many temples, on a boat trip along the river or in one of the more exclusive restaurants. The difference between the rich and the poor is obvious in Bangkok. In Sukumvit or Silom you see exclusive cars, boutiques and expensive clothing, while the poorer section of town lie along the rivers and on the outskirts of town. The middle class is, by far, the largest and most of them are in school or at work. But – no matter where your travels take you in Bangkok – friendly help and smiles will greet you wherever you go.!
CHIANGMAI
Chiang Mai lies approximately 700 kilometres north of Bangkok and is the second largest city in the country. Chiang Mai is the “entryway” to Northern Thailand and is considered the cultural capital, with ancient craftsman traditions and an excellent place to shop. The city has a cooler climate and is less hectic than Bangkok. Chiang Mai is often called “The Rose of the North” and is famous for its history, culture and ancient temples. Chiang Mai has a large and diverse population of craftsmen and produces and offers excellent products for sale, such as silk and cotton products, ornate silver, wood carvings and ceramics. To the north of Chiang Mai, a fascinating landscape stretches – across forested hillsides, jungles and rivers, to the very borders of Myanmar (Burma), Laos and “the Golden Triangle”. Elephants are still used for logging in the forests; it is in this part of the country that we find the different tribes (among these, the women with the long necks) who live in these hills. Northern Thailand is definitely a travel destination for those who seek the origins of the Thai cultural history, stunning vistas and fresh mountain air.
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