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Chiang Rai Thailand

Chiang Rai  is the capital of Thailand’s most northerly province: a town with a population of around 40,000 and situated about 820 km north of Bangkok. It is the main commercial centre serving the “Golden Triangle” border region of Thailand, Burma and Laos and an excellent base for visitors aiming to explore the region.

The city itself can be explored on foot, but for trips into the province consider renting a car or a motorbike. Budget and Avis both have offices in Chiang Rai and there are several local agencies. Driving may well be a very different environment from what you are used to, so you might consider hiring a car with driver - it does not cost much more. Public transport consists mainly of the colourful tuk-tuks and songthaews, plus a smaller number of taxis.

A motorbike is a good way to see these parts: there are several trails and a 250cc dirt bike is a great way to see the countryside. However, be aware that many of the mountain roads are narrow and winding and that Thailand has one of the highest rates of motorcycle accidents in the world. 

In the city itself, there is a night bazaar, filled with hustle and bustle and covering four city blocks, including music and dance entertainment on several stages, each far enough away from one other to avoid sound overlap. Patrons sit in front to watch the shows while having a meal, snack and cool beer. There is a tremendous variety of shops, from silk ready-made garments to tattoo etching. The hill tribes come to Chiang Rai to sell an amazing selection of old coins, collector's pieces of needlework and very fine quilted bed spreads.

The night bazaar is also connected to the city's fresh fruit market that is also open at night. You can experience indescribable shapes, colours and tastes of Asian fruits in the height of harvest season.

You may be surprised at the array of Western franchise restaurants to be found near the night bazaar. Your taste buds can still be in for a surprise inside, though, such as when the counter girl asks: " Will that be regular or hot and spicy?"

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• Chiang Rai Holiday activities