Friday, April 4, 2008

Chiang Mai,Old fashioned Thai style.


Mother and children of Hmong tribe in all their finery

Old-fashioned Thai-style hospitality in a thriving metropolis.

Chiang Mai has a striking mountain backdrop, over 300 temples and a quaint historical aura. It's also a modern, friendly, internationally-flavoured city with much to offer the visitor - food, accommodation and shopping are all top quality and cheap, and the nights are relatively cool.

Thailand's second-largest city and the gateway to the country's north was founded in 1296. You can still see the moat that encircled the original city. Doi Suthep, topped by one of Thailand's holiest wats, rises behind the city, providing a dramatic backdrop and fine views of the city.



Gilded fence at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, most sacred of northern Thai temples



Pilgrim to Wat Phra That Doi Suthep makes offerings to a reclining Buddha



Dancer performing at the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre



Mahout washing his elephant at Mesai Elephant Camp



Farmer tilling his field near Chiang Mai



Monk going about business at dusk in Wat Chedi Luang



Young monks collecting alms in front of one of Chiang Mai's 300 temples



Abuzz with activity: Chiang Mai night market



Local delicacy: skewered chicken feet, freshly grilled and ready to eat

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