CHIANG MAI PROVINCE While the most direct way to Chiang Mai is to fly from Bangkok (1hr) the alternative is a mini bus via Ayuthaya, Lopburi and Sukhothai, all ancient capitals. By taking this route you will get to see more of the country and experience Thai culture. Chiang Mai has over 300 temples within it's city limits making it visually striking. Many visitors stay in Chiang Mai longer than they plan because of the high quality of accommodation, activities, food and cool nights. Chiang Mai has an increasing number of cultural and spiritual learning experiences available; Thai massage, Thai cooking, Thai language, Yoga, Vispasana (meditation) and T' chi. To top all that Chiang Mai is also the staging point for trekking, elephant riding, rafting and visiting hill tribe villages on the Burmese and Laos borders. For the get up and go types northern Thailand has every adventure, scenic valleys, temples of learning and exciting food. A visit to Thailand is not complete without going to Chiang Mai. CHIANG RAI PROVINCE Chiang Rai is Thailand's northern most province. The Maekong River separating it from Laos forms half of the province, the other half is mountains cleaving Thailand into Burma. Chiang Rai is responsible for most of the poppy growing in Thailand. Chiang Rai 180 km north of Chiang Mai is known as the gateway to the Golden Triangle. Most visitors to the town are interested in hill tribe trekking or river trips; lots of handicrafts and silver are on offer in the lively night markets. For lovers of rugged mountain terrain and adventure, 2-3 day excursions into Laos or Burma can be arranged. PHITSANULOK PROVINCE Phitsanulok, this vibrant lower northern city makes an excellent base from which to explore the lower north. Besides the venerable temples of Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat and Wat Chulamani, in town you can explore the surrounding attractions of historical Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phed and Si Satchanalai, as well as national parks/ wildlife sanctuaries. All of these places are within 150 km of Phitsanulok.