Chiang Mai: The “New City”

Chiang Mai is the largest and most culturally significant city in northern Thailand. Chiang Mai means “new city,” named for when it became the new capital of the Kingdom of Lanna all the way back in the 1200’s. The city is poised to become a “Creative City,” a city where cultural and artistic activities are an integral part of the place’s identity, and is featured in TripAdvisor’s 2014 “25 Best Destinations in the World.”

 

Weather in Chaing Mai

Thailand is HOT. The average temperature rarely dips below 70 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year and it isn’t uncommon to have a string of days in the high 90s or low 100s during the hottest months! Not only that, from around May to October is the rainy season in Thailand, so make sure you pack accordingly!

 

Language in Chaing Mai

Most inhabitants of Chiang Mai speak Northern Thai (or Lanna), but Central Thai is used commonly throughout the city as well as in education. Many hotels and travel-related businesses use English to conduct business, and a portion of Chiang Mai’s educated population also has experience with the language.

For more on Chiang Mai, check out Lonely Planet and find out what others are saying are the best parts of the city.