Chiang Mai, 16th January 2023

Thailand, lovely Thailand.
There's a relaxed, almost serene air about Chiang Mai. Its reputation precedes it. I'm feeling calmer already - after only one day.
Chiang Mai's known for having lots of temples, and the hiking (not for me) and the elephant sanctuaries you can visit. Frolicking in mud and cuddling several tons of animal might sound like a grand day out, but I've seen them in action in India and I could nip to the zoo if I'm desperate to bump into one again. Checking the tours advertised around Chiang Mai, at last count there were at least eight different 'elephant sanctuaries' on offer. (I think these particular elephants are fairly safe now.)
The. town is very walkable. There's a big, square old town district (where I'm staying), and most of the temples are easy to get to and move around.
Yes. it's a very photogenic place, with oodles of ex- (and current) hippies bicycling and walking around the town. I have to say, it's a very laid back and pleasant atmosphere after the big cities of Vietnam.
More exploring tomorrow before moving on.Read more