From where I sat on the white sand beach of Tonsai Bay, the enormous blue sky above was reflected in the clear turquoise water below, punctuated by towering limestone crags. Behind me sat bamboo bungalows, karst cliffs, and dense rainforest, the area being a popular destination for backpackers and rock climbers. It was my first stop in the Thai islands and I couldn’t wait to see more.

While Tonsai Beach is technically part of the mainland, hundreds of islands dot the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand along the Southern coast of this Southeast Asian hotspot.

Some of the larger islands are more well-known, like Koh Phi Phi’s Maya Bay made famous by the Hollywood hit film The Beach. Other islands fly under the radar, like Koh Muk, Koh Chang, and Koh Yao Yai. (Koh is the Thai word for “island.”)

While some destinations are overrun with tourists and only cater to those on luxury vacations, there’s no lack of options when it comes to the Thai islands—no matter which one you choose, they all resemble paradise.

There are endless places to visit in Thailand—Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, Surat Thani—but the islands are not to be missed. Here are five reasons to visit them now:

1. The iconic beaches

You know the photos you see in travel magazines with white sand beaches, crystal clear water, leafy palm trees, and luxurious beachfront hotels? That’s Thailand. The beaches truly can’t be beaten.

With hundreds of islands, you could never tire from all the different ones to explore—you can experience bright colorful reefs on Koh Tao, bring the family on a holiday to Koh Samui, or chill at a reggae bar on Koh Lipe. Just make sure you don’t choose the wrong beach—some are definitely for partying, some are for peace and quiet.

Some beaches even have hidden lagoons or caves! Do a little research beforehand, or embrace a sense of adventure and see what you stumble upon.

2. The affordability

Sure, plenty of other places offer islands and beaches that are just as picturesque as the Thai islands, but are they quite as affordable? Part of Thailand’s appeal is how incredibly inexpensive it is.

While the Thai islands are definitely more pricey than the rest of Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, they still offer a great deal. If backpacker hostels are your jam, you’ll only shell out about $11-$15 (USD) per night. Mid-range hotels can cost you about $50 per night, while a 5-star resort will still only set you back about $125 per night.

The ridiculously cheap Thai food also happens to be incredibly delicious, and alcoholic drinks are usually less than $6. (Mojito, anyone?) Combined with reasonable airfare from major international airports, the Thai islands are a perfect choice for those looking to rein in their vacation spending without compromising on luxury.

3. Diving and snorkeling

Thailand has some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in the world, hands down. Visitors flock to the islands to get scuba certification and experience mesmerizing reefs, deep drop-offs, wrecks, walls, caverns, and tunnels. (The affordability of getting certified in Southeast Asia also draws in many looking to get certified.)

Adventurers can expect to see whale sharks, manta rays, leopard sharks, and more, and even if you’re on the cautious side and stick to the shallow reefs, you can still experience a colorful paradise that will make you feel like you’ve landed in a scene from Finding Nemo.

While all the islands boast beautiful spots, some of the best snorkeling and diving can be found on Koh Tao, Koh Lanta, and Khao Lak.

4, The sunsets

If the beaches, the affordability, and the underwater beauty don’t sway you, maybe the sunsets will.

With gorgeous geological backdrops no matter where you go, Thai islands are the perfect places to relax on the beach with a drink in hand and watch the sun go down. Choose a fancy resort or local beach bar, and you’ll join throngs of travelers reveling in the evening light, often with appetizer specials and happy hour drinks.

No matter the level of fanciness you choose, the vibrant sky won’t disappoint. Head to the Western side of any island for a memorable night.

5. The ability to party and/or relax

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shane's Chasing Paradiso. (@shanes_chasing_paradiso)

No two Thai islands are the same, and some are actually incredibly different. These differences are what make the islands appeal to everyone, and offer something for every traveler.

Want to experience a Full Moon Party, the notorious all-night beach parties? Head to Haad Rin beach on Koh Phangan. (Half Moon parties exist, too.)

Looking for a quiet escape on a peaceful beach where you can relax on a beach lounge and sip from an ice cold coconut? Try Koh Samui or Koh Yao Noi.

Want the quintessential Thai experience with colorful longtail boats, friendly fishermen, and looming limestone cliffs? Railay Beach is what you’re looking for. (Not technically an island, but still a beautiful beach in the South.)

There’s truly something for everyone in Thailand.

Getting there

The Thai islands are easy to add to your must-see list. Fly into Bangkok from any major airport for the best price, and then take a smaller plane to Krabi or Phuket—these flights are usually less than $50. (Koh Samui is an option too, though considerably more expensive.) From there, ferries are available to nearby islands.

Be sure to check out the weather before booking tickets, though—rainy season is roughly from May to October.

The choices can be overwhelming, but don’t worry—no matter which island you choose, you’ll end up in paradise.

Suggested next reading: How To Eat Your Way Through Southeast Asia Like A Pro

The post 5 Brilliant Reasons To Visit The Thai Islands appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Thailand is unique because it was the only Southeast Asian nation that was never controlled by a foreign power, so it’s home to centuries of history and culture that you can’t experience anywhere else.

If you only have a few days to spare in this bustling metropolis, here’s a guide on all the best things to do in Bangkok.

The Main Attractions

1. Grand Palace

The Grand Palace complex has been the heart of the Thai Government and many Kings of Siam since 1782. Although the current king resides elsewhere, the ornate palace complex is still home to many official functions and remains one of the top things to do in Bangkok.

The key sight in the palace complex is Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which served as a royal chapel.

The palace’s opening hours may still be affected by funeral activities for King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), so be sure to check with your hotel or hostel to get the most up-to-date visiting information.

2. Wat Pho

The Wat Pho temple complex is home to one of the largest reclining Buddhas in Southeast Asia (46m long), making it a must-see on any trip to Bangkok. While this is a popular tourist attraction, many people don’t take the time to wander through the temple complex, so it is a very peaceful experience outside of the main building.

In addition, Wat Pho is one of the top schools of massage in Thailand, so it’s a great place to experience a true Thai massage to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

3. Wat Arun

After visiting Wat Pho, take a ferry across the Chao Phraya river to visit Wat Arun (Temple of the Dawn), directly on the other side.

The breathtaking tower is covered in ceramic tiles and porcelain, and the level of intricate detail makes it easy to spend a long time exploring the temple complex. It’s towering spires makes it stand out and unique from all the other things to do in Bangkok.

Although it is the Temple of the Dawn, it’s also a spectacular view when the spires are lit up at night.

4. Khao San Road

If you’re looking for an unforgettable night, the bars and clubs of Khao San Road are a must.

The area is known as “the center of the backpacking universe” so you won’t meet many locals here, but it is a cool place to meet other travelers from all walks of life.

Although the area has become a bit of a tourist trap, it’s definitely still worth a visit.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Zagales en ruta (@zagales_enruta) on Jul 25, 2018 at 8:38am PDT

5. Chatuchak Market

The Chatuchak Market (also known as the weekend market) is truly a sight to behold. The over 8,000 market stalls span across 27 acres, making it one of the largest markets in the world.

It is only open on Saturdays and Sundays, and you can find everything you ever possibly dreamed of and more at local prices, so it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs for your family and friends, or replace some of your worn out clothes if you’ve been traveling for a long time.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nel Dubbio Viaggio (@mariella_albericci) on Oct 29, 2018 at 9:06am PDT

6. Floating Markets

The floating markets are one of the coolest things to do in Bangkok, in my opinion at least.

The most famous (read: most touristic) ones are located about an hour outside of Bangkok and are still worth a visit for the experience. Especially if you aren’t spending a weekend in Bangkok and will miss out on the Chatuchak market.

However, there are some smaller local floating markets located closer to downtown Bangkok, but they will be harder to get to and may lack the same historic buildings and charm of the larger options.

Depending on where you’re staying and how much time you have, you might want to visit one that’s closer, so be sure to ask your hotel or hostel front desk for their recommendations.

Unique Experiences

1. Street Food

Eat everything everywhere. Since many Thai people eat out instead of cooking at home, street food is often cheaper than buying groceries and cooking yourself, and is a great way to fully immerse yourself in Thai culture.

There are food stalls everywhere, and it’s easy to find a variety of delicious options to suit all your dietary needs. Find a place where the locals are eating and grab a plate there too!

If you have a sensitive stomach, you should be fine as long as you don’t eat anything that’s not cooked. If you’re looking for fruits or salads—buy a bottle of water and wash it yourself before eating.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Story of a hungry girl (@story_of_a_hungry_girl) on Nov 1, 2018 at 9:09am PDT

2. Sathorn Unique Tower

The Sathorn Unique Tower complex is the remains of a skyscraper building project that was abandoned in the midst of the global financial crisis and never completed.

If you pay a small fee to the security guards at the bottom and are feeling athletic, you can climb the 49-story tower for some stunning views of Bangkok’s sprawling metropolis.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Julio Lopez (@piscolomo) on Nov 1, 2018 at 7:27am PDT

3. Sky Bar

If you don’t feel like walking up 49 flights of stairs, Bangkok is home to many other rooftop bars (with elevators).

You may recognize this one from The Hangover, and it is indeed a great place to catch a sunset or have a drink while looking out over the city. Drinks will be a little pricey, but it’s worth it for these stunning views.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Sky Bar, Bangkok (@skybarbangkok) on Aug 30, 2018 at 10:43pm PDT

Beyond Bangkok

Ayutthaya

If you have an extra day to spare in Bangkok, Ayutthaya is definitely worth a day trip.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to 1350, and was once one of the world’s largest urban areas and cosmopolitan centers. The former capital of the Siamese kingdom was destroyed in 1767 by the Burmese army and was never rebuilt, so it remains an extensive archaeological complex.

If you’re interested in world history, this is absolutely one of the best things to do in Bangkok for you.

Suggested next reading: 7 Legit Reasons Why Digital Nomads Are Flocking To Chiang Mai

The post The Complete Guide For Experiencing The Best Of Bangkok appeared first on Modern Trekker.

However, with that first bite ofsai ua along with my dragon fruit smoothie my life changed and now I’m addicted.

If you head to Chiang Mai, binging on street food will be a MUST for anyone who loves food. Unless you decide to stay in a hotel and eat every meal there while experiencing zero of the culture, you cannot miss Chiang Mai street food.

What’s the deal with Chiang Mai street food?

Chiang Mai street food has a unique flavor that’s not easy to come by down south. Thai food is all very regional, and the northern Lanna food has its own obsession with pork, veggies, and adding enough spice to put tears in your eyes.

So if you’ve said….“Ahhhh I loved that pad thai I had in Bangkok,” well….you’ve not experienced the best part of Thai food! Go to Chiang Mai, bring your stretchy pants, and get eating!

My top three favorite foods in Chiang Mai:

1. Pork Curry: Also known as gaeng hang lay, is my all time favorite curry. It’s a thick and soft pork that soaks in ginger, garlic and spices. Eat it at Aroon Rai over rice.

2. Khao Soi: For just over $1, you’ll be able to indulge in one of the most famous dishes of Chiang Mai. It’s a thick and spice-filled broth that typically is made with chicken. There are both fried and soft noodles within the soup. You can add lime, spices, pickled vegetables, and shallot to your meal however you feel necessary. Eat it here for just 45 baht!

3. Sai Ua: This is the best sausage I have ever had in my life. It can be found at street cart vendors all over the city. Thai people love their sausages, and no, not that frozen gross processed stuff you buy at your hometown grocery store. The sausage is unique as it is a bit drier than what you may be used to. Mixed in are different bits such as lemongrass, galangal, garlic, and chilis. While some sai ua makes my mouth turn to fire, I find that most are very tolerable for my weak spice buds.

Although that may seem pretty meat-heavy, Chiang Mai is also loaded with tons of vegetarian options and even has a slew of vegan restaurants popping all over the city.

My favorite places to go for Chiang Mai street food:

1. The Chiang Mai Gate food stalls: Every Saturday I head down to the southern part of the city for a $5 foot massage and pork noodle and wonton soup. For just about $1.50 I can slurp my soup in front of 7-Eleven while people watching and drinking a cold beer. Throughout the entire southern part of the moat are tons of street carts selling everything imaginable—meat skewers, fruit shakes, mango sticky rice, corn on the cob, bugs, durian, meatballs, spring rolls…and the list goes on. As you walk around you’ll be swarmed by loads of smells that make you drool with hunger…well, usually, unless it’s that bad sewer smell that lingers throughout southeast Asia. Regardless, you’ll be grabbing snacks for a few bucks while frolicking wide-eyed through the market.

2. The Chiang Puak Market food stalls: If you aren’t too keen on crazy crowds, the street food at the north gate offers a more laid-back vibe. Yes, it may have been made famous when Anthony Bourdain came and munched on pork and rice. Get on over to the Cowboy Hat Lady for one of the top recommendations in town. Throughout the area you can get wonderful treats without feeling too overwhelmed by the tourist crowds.

3. The Night Bazaar: During the week, you should head to Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar to binge on even more goodies. Here you will find a lot of pad see ew, assortments of noodles, different kinds of curries, and skewers a-plenty. Food stalls surround the perimeter of the location where you can listen to live music. Here you won’t find solely Thai food but loads of other mouthwatering eats as well.

4. Thanin Market: There are tons of markets around Chiang Mai where you can buy either on-the-go food or ingredients to bring back home and cook. My favorite market is just north of the old city in the neighborhood of Santitham. Thanin Market has EVERYTHING you need and is extremely local and affordable. As it doesn’t cater to tourists, you’ll be able to eat your meals for much cheaper while supporting the locals who aren’t at the busy markets in the old city. You can weave your way through multiple food stalls and snag wontons, soups, sausage, shakes, fruit, veg, dumplings, and more! These food items will be about half the price as the typical markets. So go for the local feel and head to Thanin Market to binge on more Thai snacks.

BONUS: “Tao Rai?” you ask. Thai locals will LOVE if you can ask for their treats in their language. You may even score a discount if you ask politely.

Reading about Chiang Mai street food is not as thrilling as experiencing it in person. You won’t really know what that smell is until you’ve tasted it. You’ll be drooling with no shame when you pop around the various street food markets in Chiang Mai.

Don’t know what you’re eating? Good! That’s part of the adventure. Support the local vendors who work so hard to make Chiang Mai delicious! It’s hard to miss the street food in Chiang Mai—actually, it’s quite impossible. So grab that ice cream cone from the man waiting in the heat for a sale. You’ll be doing good and eating great!

Suggested next reading: 8 Incredible Outdoor Adventures Near Chiang Mai

The post Chiang Mai Street Food: What To Eat & Where To Find It appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Southeast Asian Food Stalls

What comes to mind when you think of food stalls back home? Cheap? Lower quality food? In Southeast Asia, some of the best places to eat are food stalls at the local market. Although you might think that a restaurant is a better idea and a safer bet, it’s not. At restaurants, you cannot see them cooking the food and you don’t know how long the food has been sitting back there. Be especially wary of a restaurant if it serves Western-style food such as hamburgers or pizza. Those restaurants almost guarantee that you’ll get food poisoning. At Southeast Asian food stalls, however, you can watch your food being prepared hot and fresh. Often times, the food stall is just a family or man and woman cooking food over a fire pit. You’ll want to watch where locals are eating and follow them. If you look out of place, then you know that you are in a good spot. Another thing to look for is the plastic chairs. If a food stall has plastic chairs, no matter how uncomfortable they may be, this is a good sign. There’s nothing quite like eating some Thai street food sitting on a tiny plastic stool while people watching and drinking a cold beer. The simple pleasures in life.

Try New Foods

Speaking of new experiences, Southeast Asia is a different world than any Western country. Some of the first things you’ll notice are the chaos, wild dogs, and of course, the smells. Some are delightful, while others are not so much…Regardless, different types of food being cooked is a part of these smells. Some of the Southeast Asian food you’ll see may not be familiar. Southeast Asia is for adventurous eaters so it is important to keep an open mind about the food choices. Whether it be fried spiders in Cambodia, hard-boiled duck eggs in the Philippines, grasshoppers in Thailand, or deep-fried scorpion on a stick in Vietnam, there are plenty of new foods to try wherever you go. My favorite Southeast Asian food that I tried was actually rat in Thailand. It actually costs more than chicken or pork and is considered a delicacy in the country. It actually had quite a lot of flavor with almost no fat. If you find yourself in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend trying new foods and expanding your horizon. Some foods you may not enjoy, but there may be some that you really love!

Use The Condiments Provided

 

View this post on Instagram

 

Restock sambal belacan yang beberapa hari dah putus.. hehehe.. dah ada orang bising.. maka ku mencari la mangga muda kat pasar chowkit and harini berlaku la ia.. hehehe.. nah resepinya.. . Bahannya adalah: Cili merah Cili padi Asam Limau Mangga muda Belacan Cuka Garam/gula Sedikit air . #leenskitchenkal #sambalbelacan #sambalbelacanmangga #ulamulaman #sayamasak #jiwakelantan #masakankelantan #asianfood #selerakampung #ulamulaman #malaysiantaste #food #malaysianfood #foodporn #foodart #foodlover #foodblogger #veggieslover #foodphotography #foodshare #goodmoodfood #instafood #vitdaily #like4like #majalahrasa #resepimasakan @gambarmakanansedap @vitdaily.co @resepisedap @majalahrasa

A post shared by haznierozleen (@haznirozleenharon) on May 17, 2018 at 8:39am PDT

If you are already overwhelmed by the food, you might just skip over the condiments. That is a big mistake in my book. To use an analogy that many might be familiar with, it’s like having pancakes without maple syrup…It simply cannot be done. The two go hand in hand. There are quite a few condiments to choose from depending on what you are looking for. You can easily find different sauces from spicy to sweet. In my opinion, however, there are really only three you need to know. The first one is Sambal Belacan. It is a chili shrimp paste that is delicious on almost any kind of food and can be found in most countries throughout the region. Be careful though, I’m not kidding when I say it is spicy…Really spicy! The second sauce to try is called Tuk Trey It is a sweet and sour dipping sauce found in Cambodia and it is to die for! The sauce is mainly used with appetizers, but of course, it can also be used for entrees as well. My final favorite Southeast Asian sauce is called Fish Sauce. The reason the sauce has this name is because it’s created from fermented fish. (In other words, they let the fish get rotten and create a sauce out of it.) Due to the fact that it comes from a fish, the sauce is quite salty and is often used in curries. It can also be used with meat. In Vietnam, for example, fish sauce is often put on Banh Mi beef sandwiches, a local snack, to add some saltiness to the sandwich.

Make Sure Food Is Prepared In Front Of You

When anyone thinks about food in Southeast Asia, they immediately think of getting sick and having their trip be ruined. It’s always a toss-up whether you’ll get sick or not since the bacteria is so different. I’ve heard stories of being sick for a month or others that have lived there for some time and have never experienced food-related sickness. I previously mentioned that restaurants are a no go because you cannot see them prepare the food, To be safe when eating all that Southeast Asian food, it’s important to watch them cook your food fresh. You have to be strict about it. Sometimes you’ll notice that some street vendors just reheat food that was previously unsold. You have no idea whether that food was made earlier in the day or a week ago. Unfortunately, Southeast Asia does not have the same food safety measures that are in place for other countries and it is up to you to protect yourself. I always ask for the freshest meat they have and if I notice that the food sitting out has a lot of flies swarming it, I won’t eat it. If you watch vendors make your food, chances are you’ll be able to safely and happily enjoy your eating adventure in Southeast Asia.

Suggested next reading: 5 Crazy & Delicious Foods I Tried While Traveling

The post How To Eat Your Way Through Southeast Asia Like A Pro appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Flexible, alternative lifestyles are becoming more and more common in 2018, especially among millennials. Cities all over the world are becoming digital nomad hotspots, tempting remote workers with things like low costs of living, easy-to-obtain visas, and plentiful wifi.

Chiang Mai has become one of those cities.

A beautiful mountain town in northern Thailand, Chiang Mai has recently seen a surge in its population of digital nomads. It’s been a popular destination among English teachers for years, but it’s now becoming especially popular among remote workers.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Travel/Thailand/Gopro/Enduro (@mileshunta) on May 7, 2018 at 6:13pm PDT

Why are there so many digital nomads in Chiang Mai? Here are seven reasons:

1. A Low Cost of Living

Southeast Asia in general is an incredibly inexpensive place to live, and Thailand is no exception. Basic studio apartments are available to rent for as low as $150 USD/month, with luxury units still only around $800 USD/month. Month-to-month leases are common and spaces often come furnished. Mobile phone packages with unlimited data can run around $18 USD/month (in case you need to hotspot your phone) and wifi is abundant at nearly every coffee shop and restaurant. Local transportation is easy with songthaews (local pickup trucks converted into taxis with two benches fixed along the inside) and Grab, an Uber-like app. And the best expense? Food! You can get a mouth-watering local dish from a street vendor for as little as $1 USD. If you’re making a western salary, digital nomads in Chiang Mai can live like kings, easily.

2. Accessibility to Western Comforts

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by ting05pc (@ting05pc) on Dec 5, 2017 at 6:48am PST

While Chiang Mai is a city rich in Thai culture and history, it also boasts some familiar Western comforts to appease even the most reluctant of travelers. Thai malls are some of the best you’ll find (seriously, give one a visit and you’ll be pleasantly surprised) with amazing food courts, well-known clothing shops, and plenty of services like mobile phone retailers. Western-influenced neighborhoods attract plenty of foreigners, making them a bit more expensive but with many comforts of home, like American grocery stores, European restaurants, and trendy cafés. The Nimmanhaemin Road area is especially popular.

3. Good Infrastructure and WiFi

Chiang Mai is renowned for the ease it provides remote workers. Traveling within Thailand is easy, with major airport hubs in Chiang Mai and Bangkok. In fact, Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi international airport is the ninth busiest airport in Asia, offering cheaper tickets and more accessible flights. (And flights between Chiang Mai and Bangkok are dirt cheap.) Internet is plentiful in Chiang Mai, with most coffee shops and restaurants happily offering free wifi. Coworking spaces are common, offering affordable daily and monthly rates—some host fun informational talks and meetups so you can network and get to know other digital nomads in Chiang Mai. In general, Chiang Mai is an incredibly easy city to settle into and work from comfortably.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Thailand / Таиланд (@landofsmilethailand) on Sep 14, 2018 at 2:20am PDT

4. Stunning Landscape and Temples

Chiang Mai is bordered to the west by Doi Suthep, one of the twin peaks of Doi Suthep-Pui National Park. You can grab beers from 7-Eleven and sit on a rooftop or balcony (both of which are common in apartment buildings in CM) to watch the sunset behind the mountain, which never gets old. Dotted throughout the city are over 300 ancient temples, anomalies amidst the modern shops and cafés. Strolling through the streets of Old Town, it’s impossible to avoid stumbling upon a majestic temple, and for a nominal fee you can enter and wander the grounds. (Usually the equivalent of $3 USD—but make sure you’re dressed appropriately.) And sitting at the top of Doi Suthep is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, a Buddhist monastery from the 14^th Century offering incredible views of the city below. No matter where you look, there’s always so much beauty on offer for digital nomads in Chiang Mai.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DEL (@livewellwithdel) on Sep 10, 2018 at 4:51am PDT

5. A Plethora of Outdoor Activities

There’s also no lack of things to do outside in Chiang Mai. Feel like climbing waterfalls? Swimming in a reservoir? Hiking up a mountain in a national park? All of these are possible in CM! Sticky Waterfalls, Huay Tung Tao, and Doi Inthanon National Park are all within a day’s drive. Jungle trekking, zip lining, and mountain biking are also available, proving you’ll never be bored in Chiang Mai. (Check out a full list of ideas here.)

6. The Kindness of the Thai People

Perhaps another reason why so many people stay in Chiang Mai long-term is the Thai people themselves. In general, they are welcoming, gracious, and kind. Even if they only speak a bit of English, they’ll go out of their way to try to talk to you and learn about you. Rather than seeing foreigners as an imposition, they’re usually eager to practice English and tell you about their country, which they take so much pride in. They certainly help you feel at home in Thailand, even if it’s a temporary home.

7. Incredible Food

Saved the best for last! Because not only do digital nomads in Chiang Mai live like kings, they eat like kings, too. Noodle soups, chicken and rice, fruit shakes, curries galore—it’s all so good. Ingredients are fresh and family recipes abound. Most food is served street-style, cooked up right in front of you on a cart on the curb. The popular dish local to northern Thailand is khao soi, a coconut and curry noodle soup usually served with chicken, pork, or beef. It’s topped with crunchy fried noodles, and spicy pickled mustard root, shallots, and lime wedges are served on the side. Food just doesn’t get any better than Thai food in Chiang Mai.

There you have it. Chiang Mai is a little spot of heaven amidst Southeast Asia. Is it really any wonder why there are so many digital nomads in Chiang Mai?

Suggested next reading: 7 Wonderful Things To Do In Chiang Mai

The post 7 Legit Reasons Why Digital Nomads Are Flocking To Chiang Mai appeared first on Modern Trekker.

When you stay in Chiang Mai, opt for accommodation in the Old City. It’s a one-mile-by-one-mile square inside of a moat and old gated walls that still subtly remain. It’s where tourists flock, vendors set up street food carts, and where you can find little cafés and massage parlors nestled between mazes of alleys. There’s luxury hotels, adorable guesthouses, and backpacker hostels for any type of adventurer.

Here are 7 top things to do in Chiang Mai.

1. Visit The Temples

There’s no shortage of stunning temples in and around Chiang Mai. In fact, there are approximately 300 Buddhist temples. Near the old city you will find beautiful shiny temples peeking out around various corners and entrances. While entry is typically free or just a small fee, make sure to bring something to cover your knees and shoulders. A must-see temple just on the mountain to your west is Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You can hike for 30 minutes along the Monk’s trail from the base at Suthep Alley Road and stop for a coffee at Wat Pha Lat. From there you can either snag a Songthaew (red truck) for just 40 baht from the main road or hike the remainder of your journey. The temple on top has views of the entire city.

2. Bike Around The City

You can easily rent a bicycle and peddle your way through the town. The city is small, flat, and easy to navigate. You may find yourself popping into little remote corners where you can find cute hidden gems. You can bike northwest to Huay Kaew Waterfall or bike east towards the Mae Ping River. If you’re feeling that you want a bit of guidance on your cycling venture, sign up for a city bike tour or mountain biking expedition.

3. Shop At The Night Markets

Chiang Mai is all about the markets. It would be impossible to visit the city and avoid them. Every day there’s lively evening markets offering street food, massages, clothing, trinkets, and art. If you make it to Chiang Mai on the weekend you can join the heaps of crowds looking for their sweet deals. You’ll be jam-packed shopping side by side with fellow tourists. In this case, you may fancy grabbing an hour foot massage on the streets for about $5 while watching people go by. The Saturday market is a bit less hectic as it is just south of the old city and nearby the delish street vendors. It’s a bit more spacious and if you head far enough south, you can catch the police officers singing karaoke! Even if you don’t make it on the weekend you can head to the Chiang Mai’s Night Bazaar any day of the week, Warorot Market or Jing Jai Market for even better discounts, and the markets near Chiang Mai University that cater to the local youngsters in the area. Want to test out your haggling skills? “Lot dai mai?” will be your key phrase to get a better deal.

4. Eat The Street Food

Northern Thai food will transform your taste buds. Thai food is more than just your go-to pad thai dish that your order from your favorite chain restaurant back home. From Khao Soi to Sai Ua to Gaeng Hang Lay you’ll have to test out the food yourself. Although the food may be a bit spicy for your liking, it’s all worth a shot. “Mai pet” means to not add spice if you’re feeling a tad sweaty already. Whether you are meandering around the north gate of the old city and make it to the famous “Cowboy Hat Lady’s” stall for some pork or are eating yourself into a food coma around the south gate, you’ll have plenty to keep your taste buds entertained. Pork noodle soup, spring rolls, mango sticky rice, fruit shakes, mystery meat sticks, and more! The second best part of eating street food in Chiang Mai is that each dish will typically be in the $1-$3 range, which makes eating all the authentic food one of the top things to do in Chiang Mai!

5. Take A Thai Cooking Class

Now that you ate all of that street food you need to learn to make it, right? RIGHT! Thai cooking classes will make you feel like a professional chef, even if only for a day. Sign up for a local cooking class and learn all about the food you love to eat. Many cooking classes in Chiang Mai will offer full or half day excursions which include shopping in local markets, hearing the background on different ingredients, and giving you step-by-step guides on how to cook like a Thai. Not only that, you’ll be able to take recipes home with you and give it a go when you feel that you crave a bit of that spice.

6. Come For The Festivals

If your vacay plans are somewhat lenient, check your calendar and plan accordingly as two of the best festivals in Thailand are worth celebrating in Chiang Mai. In mid-April is Songkran festival which is a three-day nationwide water fight welcoming the new year and rainy season. November is brightly lit by the famous lantern festival, Loy Krathong. Watch thousands of lanterns float up to the sky or along the river. For Thai locals, it signifies a new fresh beginning into the new year.

If possible, avoid coming from the end of February through early April. It is the smokey season and is not as glamorous to travel up north when the rice fields nearby are all being burned to prep for a new season of crops.

7. Sabay Sabay

Or in other words, relaaax! Chiang Mai doesn’t need to be go-go-go. It’s great to spend time here and unwind on your refreshing trip away. You can go for a lazy picnic in the huts at Huay Tung Tao, you can do free yoga at Buak Hard Park in the mornings, you can find various pools around the city, or you can simply go for massages all day long. The city is small enough to not feel overwhelmed by having too much to do. So enjoy some R&R while traveling through Chiang Mai.

Overall, don’t over-plan your Chiang Mai adventure. There are many top things to do in Chiang Mai not mentioned here, so you can go with the flow and find many things to do upon arrival. Eat the food, explore the markets, and take photos of the temples.

Also, if you want to get out of the city for a bit and dive into nature, Chiang Mai offers loads of outdoor adventures for your perfect vacay.

The post 7 Wonderful Ways To Make The Most Of Your Trip To Chiang Mai appeared first on Modern Trekker.

I discovered this myself when I moved to Chiang Mai in search of a slower-paced lifestyle. In between bites of authentic northern Khao Soi and “Sai Ua” sausage I was scrolling through my good friend “Google” to figure out where to hike next. The outdoor playground that neighbors the city is my new boundless backyard. The Chiang Mai province alone contains 13 national parks. The ability to escape to splash in various waterfalls, visit serene Buddhist temples dotted all over the forests, or play in the mountains are all within reach. For me, having a bit of city life without sacrificing the option to trek out into nature is why Chiang Mai is a perfect destination.

No matter your length of stay in northern Thailand, you will want to take advantage of some of these fun outdoor adventures near Chiang Mai.

1. Hiking up to Doi Suthep:

Those famous golden spires you see perched on the mountain west of Chiang Mai are part of the famous Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep Temple. You can’t miss it. You’ll look up and wonder “Hey, what are those golden spikey things that are peeking out among the trees? Better go check!” The temple of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep is a beautiful golden temple that overlooks the city. Although you can easily get there by Songthaew, the adventurous way to explore this temple is to make it a trek! If you love hiking and are ok with getting lost—wait, is that just me?—then make it a day-long excursion. Be sure to bring water, good shoes, and go for it!

From Chiang Mai, you can walk about 40 minutes to the trailhead if you’re feeling ambitious. Otherwise, you can take a Songthaew or Grab (the Uber of southeast Asia) if you want to quickly get out of the city. You will want to go to the entrance of the Monk’s Trail at the end of Suthep Road. Some people, like myself, make the mistake of starting from the Chiang Mai Zoo. However, then you have to pay entry even if you’re just trying to sneak past it to access the trail. From the Monk’s trail you will have a clearly marked trek up until Wat Pha Lat. This temple is a serene hidden escape that spies on the city below. You can then take a quick rest on your hike, get an iced coffee, and sit near the stream with views of the city off in the distance.

Once you continue your way up toward the golden spires, the trail becomes less clear. You will find some steep slopes that aren’t as clearly marked as the beginning. However, this hike is the most common in Chiang Mai, so you likely will run into someone who can trek the path with you.  Once you make it to the top, you’ll be greeted by loads of food vendors, elephant pants, and the bright dragon-faced staircase that leads you to the temple you saw from the city.

2. Climbing at Crazy Horse Buttress:

In the old city of Chiang Mai is CMRCA—Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventures. Although there is a small indoor bouldering wall for training, the outdoors is likely what you really want for an ultimate Chiang Mai climbing adventure. You can either book a group tour, private tour, or hire a songthaew through CMRCA to get you out to Crazy Horse Buttress for your climbing excursion. Even if you are going solo, it’s easy to find a belay buddy through CMRCA. There’s also no need to feel overwhelmed by bringing all of your climbing gear across the world to Chiang Mai as you can rent out everything you need from the shop before you take off. The limestone climbing crag of Crazy Horse Buttress is located in Mae On, about 45 minutes from the city. It’s the highlight of Chiang Mai’s climbing scene. Once you arrive, you’ll have over 150 routes to conquer!

The beauty of Crazy Horse Buttress is that you have options for outdoor pitches, multi-pitches, and climbing inside a cave. You’re sure to find like-minded climbers upon arrival which makes it easy to make new friends. Whether you’re brand new to the sport or have been climbing for years, you will love your experience with CMRCA.

3. Visiting One of the Various Waterfalls:

Chiang Mai may not have beaches, but there are great waterfalls to enjoy nearby if you’re needing to cool down. Whether you want to lounge in the sun and have a picnic, swim in the crisp waters, or just be out in nature, you’ll be pleased with the options nearby. A great recommendation for those passing through is the Bua Tong “Sticky” Waterfalls. It is not nicknamed that by accident. The falls are sticky due to the limestone rock that allows you to literally just climb on up! At the base of the waterfall, you can go for a swim, but it’s really mostly known for the fun and sticky climb. Through the different tiers, there are spots to relax or put up a hammock. You’ll think you’re on a movie set with the lush backdrop of mountains that look at you across from the falls.

Chiang Mai has many other amazing waterfalls as well. There’s the ginormous Mae Sa Waterfall which is a fun motorbike ride up north. If you want a quick half day trip, then check out the local Huay Kaew Waterfall near the Chiang Mai Zoo. Just past that is the Monthathan Waterfall. And if you have time to trek in the jungle and camp for a day or two, check out the Mae Takhrai Waterfall.

4. Trekking in the Jungle:

Chiang Mai offers various eco-tours for those who want an ultimate hiking adventure with a local guide who can immerse you in a cultural trek. The great part of booking a tour is that you get to be with experienced local professionals who are familiar with the area. Whether you are wanting to do a home-stay, see elephants, or just experience the jungle, you’ll have a trekking adventure that will fit your needs. These tours can either be private or group tours so you can tweak your adventure to whatever suits you best.

If a guided trek is a bit too “planned” for you, go for a hike! Grab a pal from your hostel and get lost in nature. I personally like a mix of guided trekking and solo hiking to get a variety of different experiences.

Many treks may offer the opportunity to visit an elephant sanctuary or ride elephants. However, be wary of companies that offer elephant riding as it is very bad for the animals. Some tour companies take advantage of profiting off of these gentle giants.

5. Camping at Doi Inthanon:

Just a two-hour drive from Chiang Mai is Doi Inthanon National Park. The park is home to Thailand’s highest peak at over 8,000 feet. You can either grab a motorbike, hire a taxi, or rent a car to take you to Doi Inthanon. All you need to do upon arrival is head to the Campground Headquarter. From here you can rent all of your camping gear. It’s a breeze. There’s no stress and it’s clearly accessible for tourists.

Once you are there, you will have access to loads of trails, waterfalls, and the famous image you see all over Google, The Royal Twin Pagodas. If you don’t have much time or aren’t keen on overnight camping, you can easily do a quick day trip and still have time to hike and see the Pagodas.

6. Ziplining:

If you want to fly with the birdies, zipline your way around the jungles near Chiang Mai. There’s no better way to get the adrenaline pumping than by swinging through the trees. Everyone needs to fly like Superman at some point, right? Chiang Mai offers many ziplining adventures throughout its nearby national parks. You will need to book a tour for this experience and there are many to choose from. Why not get rid of your fear of heights in the tropics near Chiang Mai with a fun group of like-minded flyers? You’ll be guided by professionals and be experiencing the jungle in one of the most unique ways possible.

7. Mountain Biking:

A while back I did my first mountain biking tour in Chiang Mai. I didn’t really know what to expect, but I figured I knew how to ride a bike. I showed up to Mountain Biking Chiang Mai and was given all of my protective gear. I rolled my eyes as I put on my elbow pads, shin pads, hand pads, and all that good protection I thought I was too cool for. Little did I know what I was really getting myself into. We took off for the mountains and I immediately realized the truth behind a mountain biking adventure. Although a bit intimidated at first, there were options for the more “newbie” types to ditch the steep hills. I only fell three times and was thankful I was all geared up.

Overall, it was a blast. We cycled through coffee plantations, had stunning views weaving our way through mountains, and had great guides. Eventually, we rode down to Huay Tung Tao Lake for a late lunch and time to relax.

8. Relaxing at Huay Tung Tao:

If mountain biking isn’t your thing, head over to Huay Tung Tao for an afternoon on the lake. It’s a quick 20-minute drive from the city. The reservoir is speckled with over 100 little private huts that can easily fit small groups of friends. Each area provides local snacks and drinks in exchange for a space to sit. Bring a deck of cards, a book, some sketchbooks you’ve been meaning to get out and relax on the lake. It’s peaceful, you can paddleboard or swim—despite the somewhat murky waters—and take in the beautiful mountainous surroundings. You can also walk or cycle the perimeter if you want a bit of exercise.

So many adventures near Chiang Mai await! Chiang Mai is both a great place to get a mix of blood pumping outdoor exercise on top of complete relaxation. After a day of working up a sweat, you can go relax at the night bazaar while getting a foot massage, fruit shake in hand, to heal those sore muscles. What are you waiting for?! A Chiang Mai outdoor adventure is calling your name—go and book those tickets!

Suggested next reading: How To Go Rogue And See Southeast Asia By Motorbike

The post 8 Incredible Outdoor Adventures Near Chiang Mai appeared first on Modern Trekker.