I just don’t get Chiang Mai.
I’m well aware this is probably a controversial statement. I’m ready for a backlash from the masses of people I’ve spoken to that love it but the truth is; I really don’t see what the fuss is about.
This is my second visit to Chiang Mai. My first visit was towards the end of February when we did the jungle trek and a visit to Chiang Rai and the Golden Triangle where Thailand, Burma and Laos all meet. Don’t get me wrong; these were all great things to do but they weren’t actually in Chiang Mai. The jungle trek was a good hour away and Chiang Rai is a completely different city!
Trekking through the jungle is great fun, but it’s not actually in Chiang Mai!
In my two visits here I’ve seen a few temples, been to the night bazaar (which doesn’t seem to sell anything you can’t buy elsewhere in Thailand) and been to watch Muay Thai twice. Other than that, I’ve genuinely struggled to find things to do in the city. It’s not that I’m expecting to walk out of my hostel and be faced with a million and one things to do – I’d just like an insight into why so many people love this city.
I have, on occasion, found myself wondering if there’s an entire area of the city that I’m yet to discover but it seems there isn’t. Maybe it’s just so highly rated because it’s the gateway to a lot of things like jungle treks and the tiger kingdom which are outside of the main city.
One of the few things I’ve found to do in Chiang Mai.
Maybe I came into it with my expectations too high. I class myself as something of a city boy, despite being from a small town. I’ve always felt more comfortable being and living in a bustling city and can’t see myself settling in a small town for quite a long time. Both times I’ve arrived in Chiang Mai it’s been after a crazy visit to Bangkok, so maybe the comedown from being in the capital has contributed to me not looking so favourably on Chiang Mai. For what it’s worth; I know many people who’ve hated Bangkok but loved Chiang Mai.
This post wasn’t meant as a complete slating of Chiang Mai; I’m just genuinely curious to know why it’s so highly thought of on the backpacker circuit. Am I missing something? Or is it just not my scene? Answers on a postcard please…
Rambling Northerner 
Didn’t think this to be fair, always thought Chiang Mai was top draw! Btw mate, did you take a laptop with you or you blogging on your phone/internet cafe? I’ve set a preliminary target for my travels – October/November! (PS, bought a 60L bag on your recommendation, cheers)
Have you been before mate? Where’s on the list this time?
I’m blogging on my iPad, can be slightly inconvenient with a touchscreen but I find it alright. Give me a shout if you have any more Q’s before you jet off!
I’ve not, no, but heard from those who’ve been that it’s supposed to be one of the ‘must-see’ places in Thailand – just assumed it was amazing!
Ah ok, didn’t know what score was with technology while travelling, seems more people take their computers than what i imagined. Yeah, shall definitely be asking Qs so cheers for that mate, will give you a shout closer to the time!
“I have, on occasion, found myself wondering if there’s an entire area of the city that I’m yet to discover but it seems there isn’t.” I always got that feeling too!! I do like it, as a chilled out place n a gateway but i dont think theres all that much to do there in the actually city! Like you say its all about whats around the city tho i guess!
Glad to hear I’m not the only one! I’m surprised at how many people have agreed with me actually; I was under the impression that everyone loved it!
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I’m in Chiang Mai right now and I feel exactly the same. I booked 5 nights here after everything I’ve read about how good it is and you need a minimum of 5 days to experience it all… honestly I could have left after 2 days and would of had I not already paid for my accommodation. I just don’t get it and am so bored! Anyway I leave tomorrow and not sure that I’ll be returning in the future.
Hey Rachael – thanks for reading! It’s good to know I’m not just complaining for the sake of it and that some people agree with me, haha! I wouldn’t go back without a good reason, that’s for sure. Where’s next for you?
Hey sorry, I’ve just seen your reply!
So next was back to Bangkok for a night, then Koh Tao, Koh Pha Ngan then Samui. Now I’ve just arrived in Phuket to see my friend. Then home on Friday unfortunately 😦
I love Bangkok. One of my favourite cities! Back to reality on Friday then? Good luck!