Chang Mai, Thailand - a must see....

In January I was in Thailand again and this time spoke in Chang Mai. It was my first trip to this wonderful city which 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 - 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. As usual, I took some time to visit the Elephant sanctuaries and I hired a longtail boat and travelled up on the rivers, stopping at a local farmer for a breakfast of fresh fruits, wonderful.....

This is definitely a place to put on your travel itinerary.