Head to the Hills

It’s no secret that ‘the land of smiles’ has become a massive party destination for gap-year travelers, recent grads, and other twenty-somethings on the road for the first time. From the pubs of Khao San Road to the full-moon raves of Koh Phangan, Thailand is a hotbed of hedonistic holidays. But when the party ends, the glow sticks fade, and the henna tattoos wash off, most travelers look north for quieter, cultural-based stimulation. For them, Chiang Mai is the destination of choice.

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas 450 miles north of Bangkok, this historic city of 170,000 has a well-developed tourism industry and large expatriate community. It’s conveniently located less than a day’s travel from whitewater rapids, ziplines, caves, hot springs, and four different hill tribes, which makes it a superb jumping-off point for all manner of soft adventure. Of the many options available, most travelers agree that one mode of transport is superior to all others: elephant.

Intelligent, tame, and naturally built for the terrain, the elephants of Chiang Mai offer a ride so smooth that some tour guides will even put a chair on top of them for you to sit on. Once you’ve saddled up, your options are broad. Chiang Dao Tours will take you to visit the famous Chiang Dao caves, search for wildlife, or even to see the famous Padung tribe where the women extend their necks to eerie lengths using brass rings. You also have the option of riding your elephant up the Ping River and then floating back down the river on a bamboo raft with a cold Chang beer.

When you’re not up for exploring the jungle, Chiang Mai offers a plethora of chilled-out activities. The market is said to be incredible. Cooking and Muay Thai boxing lessons are also available. But, if you really want to learn about traditional Thai-style relaxation methods you can learn how the art of Thai massage from a pro or, for a different kind of relaxation education, take a trip to the Opium Museum.

Now you see why it’s called ‘the land of smiles’…