Nov 3-6 2022 |
After a nice multi-day pit stop in Pai, I was stoked to be heading to Chiang Mai, thirty years since since my last visit. About 15 minutes out of Pai, the road got downright spectacular, a massive curvy hillclimb. And at the top of the mountain, I had one of those uniquely Thai cultural exchanges, an SUV full of people, all waving, smiling, and yelling hello. Why are they doing this, I thought to myself? Did they mistake me for someone else? Did I forget to put my pants on today? But then I realised, this is just normal friendliness here, in the Land of Smiles (vs the Land of Frowns, no names mentioned).
I stayed three nights in Chiang Mai, a decent but economical hotel in the best location in the old city. You can see why many expats, and especially riders chose to live in Chiang Mai. I could easily see myself there in future. One highlight, highly recommended, was Hand Made Pizza - just go if you ever can.
On the housekeeping front, for my upcoming ride into Laos (fingers crossed) I got new tires in Chiang Mai, some good knobby grips. And also went to the dentist to get a night guard made - 20% of cost of same in Singapore.
Also a call out to a new expat connect, Andrea, admin/expert of Unsanctioned Riders Thailand. Andrea had lot's of info and tips on Laos entry, and is all-round great people.
Ride: 130 km | 3 hrs
Stay: Malee Guesthouse (Agoda) | $26 | 5/5
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