Uncle Ted’s Postcard from Chiang Mai
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Dear Kids,
www.desiam-antiques.com. Also you really must see Ratana House – Lanna architecture at its most decorative! Here you can find laquerware containers that can be turned into lamps. 053-271734.
Dining: In the moated, old city, don’t miss The House Restaurant & Wine and Tapas Bar.
There is a Moroccan-style cocktail lounge outside. Inside, one dines in
the spacious living room of this large old Colonial house — great food,
ambiance, and value, at 199 Moonmuang Rd 053-419011.
Walking distance from the night bazaar, over the bridge, on the banks of The Ping River, you will find The Gallery
— great tropical ambiance, charming staff, and good food. There is good
jazz in an adjoining room. This is my favorite restaurant on the river.
25-27-29 Charernras Rd., 053-248601.
I’ve enjoyed some very good dinners at Antique House next to the Night Market at 71 Charoen Prethet Road; 053-276810.
Other things to do: Boats cruising The Ping leave the landing near The Brown Bean Coffee Corner five times a day from 10AM; 01-8844621. Don’t miss Wat Phra Singa, Wat Chiang Mun (photo below), and Wat Phra That Doi Suthep. You can also go elephant trekking, rafting, and visiting the hill tribes.
Want a laugh?
In the center of town is a huge billboard, “Sheraton Chiangmai is the tallest building and the only Deluxe Class hotel in Chiangmai to offer 526 over-size rooms.” Who cares? Who would come to Chiang Mai to stay in a high-rise, commercial hotel? I usually stay at Lotus or PJs Place where the owners are so friendly, and all the fun, gay places are just minutes away!
All the best, Uncle Ted