All About Chiang Mai In Thailand

Vieng Haeng, Chaing Mai

2011-03-10T22:11:00.000-08:00

Vieng Haeng

One hundred and fifty kilometers from the bustling metropolis of Chaing Mai lies a little-known northern district borderning Myanmar and Thailand. Nature at Vieng Haeng District is still relatively unspoiled; the woods are green and fertile, and rafting along the Mae Taeng River is a new adventure for tourists who visit Vieng Haean.

Vieng Haeng is home to many ethnic minorities who co-exist peacefully. The communities of Lisaw, Museu, Karen, L-kaw, Tai Yai and Haw, diverse thoung they may be, retain their unique customs and traditions. As civilization has yet to overtake the district, most people fallow a simple lifestyle making a living from agricuture.

Viewd from a high plateau on highway 1322, Vieng Haeng looks much like a second Mae Hong Son. At 700 meters above sea level, it enjoys a mild year-round climate but can be quite cold in winter. Pine trees generally line sides of the road, which, in perfect conditions, makes this sleepy district quite inaccessible to the outside world.

Wat Doi Thaen Phra Pa Luang

2011-01-03T18:03:00.000-08:00

Wat Doi Thaen Phra Pa Luang

History – Wat Doi Thaen Phra Pa Luang (Temple of the Royal Cliff) Tambol Papai, Amphur Sunsai, Chaingmai

Thai Wat is situated in a very remote area, in the hills 7 km. from Ban Pong. The uniqueness of this Wat is the large boulder easily visible a the entrance. It is said that 5 years before the end of his life, the Lord Buddha spent time meditating on this boulder. Underneath this boulder was a cave where a hermit lived. The hermit sensing the Lord Buddha’s presence, came out of the cave and asked him the following 4 questions:

1. What Dhamma states which human beings who pass this life will be reborn as human beings in the next life?
2. What Dhamma states which human beings who pass this life will be reborn as animals or devils in the next life?
3. What Dhamma states which human beings who pass this life will be reborn as angels or Thevada ?
4. What Dhamma states which animals can pass this life and be reborn as human beings ?

The Lord Buddha replied as follows:

1. The 5 precepts are the key to being born again as a human being.
2. Those who are consumed with greed anger, and blind to the truth, not knowing themselves, are those who will be born again as animals.
3. Those who train themselves in Dhamma, practicing metha (compassion), karuna (giving assistance to others), muthita (happy with success of others) – opposite of envy), ubekka (letting go if you are in the situation where you are unable to help), will be reborn as Thevada.
4. The Dhamma that help the animals to cross over to be human beings are Ariyasatsi, which is tuk (suffering), samutai (knowing the cause of suffering), niroj (wanting to get rid of suffering), and mak (ways to get rid of suffering).

After explained the above to the satisfaction of the hermit, the Lord Budhha predicted that there would be a large city below this boulder, and when the king of this city came to the boulder, the golden, As time passed, this boulder became the gathering place of many animals. So the hunters came and used the boulder as their slaughtering platform. Then a boar, believed to be a miracle reached the ear of Phraiaw Kuuna, the King of the Mengrai dynasty, who at that time was the King of Lanna Thai. The King came to look at the boulder himself and found a large Buddha, that no one knew how or who erected to protect the Buddha. Thus this is the only temple when on enters, one sees the back of Buddha, so that these who wish to make merit can put the gold leaf on the back of the Buddha. Thus The saying “Pid thong lung Phra” (Put the gold leaf on the back of the Buddha). This temple was erected more than 600 years ago and was badly in need of repair.

In 1983 (Buddhist Era 2526), Krom Silapakorn (Fine Arts Department) made a study and determined that the Buddha is of the Chiangsean period, and has been left unattended many times. Phra Kru Ba Sriwichai, Lanna’s highly revered monk, and Phra Kru Phra Chao Luang Pu Waen Sujinno, another highly revered monk, came to spend time at this Wat during the period of their “duen thudong” (walking into wilderness in search of a peaceful place for meditation).

In December 1976 (Buddhist Era 2519) Phra Ajarn Wallop Kittipojtho, the present abbot, again found this Wat when he was doing his “duen thudong”. He discovered the cave and writings describing the above story. The cave has been closed off by nature now. However, there is a statue of a hermit situated near the cave. so that those who wish to pay respect can do so. Then Phra Ajarn Wallop made many repairs that were badly needed. He is a devoted monk to be able to live in such a remote place and make his temple known to all who wish to seek the Dhamma.

Wawee Coffee in Chiang Mai

2010-02-13T09:28:00.000-08:00

Nine yeas ago, a small coffee place named “Vavee” was opened…

Gradually this small enterprise has transformed itself into the Wawee Coffee branches that we all know so well, stretching across Chiang Mai. And now Wawee is also appearing in parts of Bangkok and the South. This local café also acts as inspiration to Chiang Mai people, both those who love coffee and those interested in the coffee business, too. This is often down to the fact that each of the Wawee branches is unique in its own way, and here are some examples to try.

Soi 9, Nimmanhaeminda Rd, Branch: The first branch of Wawee coffee, now slightly relocated, featuring a lush and spacious garden.

Soi 4, Nimmanhaeminda Rd, Branch: Situated at the Nimman Promenade shopping center, this is a place to take some rest from bargain hunting and meet with friends, A bar and terrace are available at this branch.

JJ Market Branch: A perfect place to chill out within a cozy atmosphere while shopping for decorative plants and fine handicrafts.

JJ Market Branch: A perfect place to chill out within a cozy atmosphere while shopping for decorative plants and fine handicrafts.

Room#2 Branch: With its sophisticated design, this branch is suitable for business meetings as well as being a venue to hang out amongst college student.

Mae Rim’s Tita Branch: This is a coffee place within an artistic environment, where fine art pieces are decorated within a mountainous locale.

Rachadamnoen Branch: Located in the heart of the old city area, and surrounded by several ancient Buddhist temples, this branch sits on the renowned Sunday Walking Street.

Alternatively, a cup of Wawee Coffee can be found at Suriwongse Book Center, CMU International Center, Suandok Hospital, Him Ping, CentralPlaza Chiang Mai Airport, The Elephant Camp, Chotana Road, Punna Place, Mae Jo Road and Hua Rin Corner.

Go sip and see!

Wild & Surprising Habitats Hosting Events In Chiang Mai Night Safari

2010-02-08T06:03:00.000-08:00

The success of a seminar, event, or other special gathering can depend considerably on the location. If the setting is unique and memorable, chances are, the outcome will be a favorable one.

Chiang Mai Night Safari, apart from giving pleasure and edification about nature and wildlife to its visitors. Is also a perfect to hold all types of events and activities. Meeting incentive convention and exhibition (MICE), seminars, celebrations, as well as product launchings, will benefit from the clean air, peaceful natural environment and impressive architectural structures.

With large swathes of land and various buildings types, Chiang Mai Night Safari is able to accommodate all sorts of events, big and small. These can be situated along the alluring 60 million baht swan lake, with its fascinating musical fountain, certainly adding to overall impact, or else can take place alongside all the other wondrous wildlife sightseeing activities available.

As for food and beverages, different types of catering such as buffets, Northern style cuisine, or even a traditional Northern food market, known as Kad Mhua, can be arranged to best suit your event’s specific needs. A food court is also on hand for regular luncheons and dining.

For special events or those who wish to have an overnight stay, both long and short-term, Chiang Mai Night Safari can provide family size accommodation or set up tents within the camping grounds to take full advantage of the real forest atmosphere.

All of these unforgettable lay just 12km away from Chiang Mai city.

For more information about Chiang Mai Night Safari, please contact 0-5399-9000 or visit http://www.chiangmainightsafari.com/

Gourmet Tours with the Royal Project in Chiang Mai

2010-02-08T05:48:00.000-08:00

Visiting the Royal Project sites has been launched as a form of tour option, offering special one-day and overnight trips.

Among the services offered, a major highlight are the culinary tours known as La Tour d’Ang Khang, whereby all participants have an opportunity to taste a variety of dishes prepared by experienced Chef Herve Frerard, from Bangkok’s French restaurant Le Beaulieu. Le Beaulieu is situated on Sukkhumvit Soi 19, and uses the Royal Project’s homegrown ingredients.

This culinary showcase will be held during the Valentine season; 12th-14th February 2010. In addition, a high tea in a tea-plantation locale will also make for a sophisticated dining experience, set within flower gardens, as well as cookery and floristry classes being available, too.

Another fascinating event by the Royal Project is the Ang Khang Gourmet Tour which will take place from 12th 14th March 2010, exactly while the peach trees are in blossom, Those attending will have a unique dining experience provided by Norbert Kostner, Executive Chef from Bangkok’s Oriental Hotel, together with Yunan and hill tribe cultural performances. Also enjoy a strawberries picked at source from the plantation. Interesting background information regarding the Royal Project and HM the King will be provided by Mom Chao Bhisadej Rajani.

The Royal Project’s Chefs

Chef Norbert Kosner

Apart from working as an executive chef for the Oriental Hotel in Bangkok, this talented 61 year old has also been a consultant for the Royal Project, selecting grains and ingredients used in their cooking for over 15 years now. Thus, he regularly has a chance to cook for the country’s royal guests and visiting foreign leaders.

Chef Herve Frerard

All the French cuisine aficionados will know Herve Frerard of Le Beaulieu, Sofitel Residence, located in Sukkhumwit Soi 19 (aka Soi Asoke) What makes this restaurant outstanding? It is definitely the high standard of food preparation, along with the applied creativity of the chef himself, who is forever developing his own original recipes.

Information…

Center for the Tourist Coordination of the Royal Project
65 Moo 1, Suthep Rd. Tel; 0-5381-0765-8 ext. 104 or 108

Haäagen-Dazs® in Chiang Mai ‘Pleasure in its purest form’

2010-02-06T01:32:00.001-08:00

At Haäagen-Dazs, we are passionate about everything we do. Our worldwide search for ingredients takes us to Madagascar for vanilla, Hawaii for Macadamia nuts and of course, Belgium for chocolate. Equal effort and care goes into creating harmonious combinations of flavors and textures that make Haäagen-Dazs the ultimate in luxury ice-cream.

By including just a minimum of air, we produce an ice-cream that is richer in taste, creamier in body and only fresh cream, skimmed milk, egg yolk and sugar, combined with fine ingredients from around the world, There are no artificial colors in Haäagen-Dazs.

We were founded in the 1960’s and our passion for craftsmanship continues to this day, ensuring that every spoonful is an intensely rich experience.

Inspire your sense with the pure pleasure of Haäagen-Dazs, at the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar (near Royal Princess Hotel).

Recommended Creations:

Brownie Explosion

A crumbling, freshly baked Chocolate Brownie, served with a scoop of Cookies & Chocolate and a scoop of Cookies & Cream ice-cream, draped in hot chocolate fudge sauce.

Smoothies strawberry banana

Frosty Raspberry Sorbet and Vanilla Yogurt, Raspberries, Bananas, sparkling cranberry juice and crushed ice.

Information…

Haäagen-Dazs® in Chiang Mai located on Night Bazaar, opposite McDonald’s, A. Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand Open daily noon-midnight. Tel: 0-5382-0666

Rimping The Wise Green Supermarket Chiang Mai

2010-02-06T01:07:00.000-08:00

Small steps based on more joined up ‘green’ thinking on the part of Rimping led to the supermarket’s introduction of a re-useable cloth shopping bag campaign five years ago. Since then, new applied technology has created eco-friendly plastic shopping bags, using materials including corn and minerals, which biodegrade within eight months of production.

Another campaign, namely Local Talent, has also been practiced in order to develop local agricultural technologies, as well as the quality of agricultural products.

The Local Talent campaign is also based on the improvement of product marketability, with special sections for local products provided at all Rimping branches, together with sufficient publicity for local consumers, Furthermore, to ensure product quality, the Rimping Select logo has been awarded to certain local products which reach Rimping’s products and are divided into four different categories as fallows:

- Fruits and vegetables, such as organic bean sprouts
- Hydroponics, such as the product by Take Me Home
- Non-GMO and chemical free meat
- Products with the ‘Organilicious’ Label by Rimping Supermarket, and guaranteed by Organic Thailand and Organic Agriculture Certification Thailand.

Organilicious products include cereals, juices, condiments such as olive oil, as well as pastas and cheeses, for example.

Take Me Home One of Rimping Local Talents

For over three years, Rimping Supermarket has been cooperating with DATT Company, a hydroponics producer of tomatoes under the brand name Take Me Home, featuring three different types of foreign tomatoes.

“We provide local farmers with tomato seeds and fertilizer, the same farmers that used to grow bell peppers for us. This way of working together helps to provide incomes for local crop producers. However, they need to follow our instructions closely. We are really concerned with the whole process, from the selection of the seeds, to the growing, and specific pricing methods we use. We attempt to provide as much choice as possible to consumers” explained Panadda Inkaew, DATT’s Marketing Manager.

And so we hear the voice of a manufacturer of premium local product, working in cooperation with local farmers and Rimping Supermarket, a wise ‘green’ local business, with big ideas for the wellbeing of the community.

Information…

Rimping Supermarket
129 Chiang Mai-Lamphun Rd., T. Watket, Chiang Mai City, Thailand
t+66 (0) 53 246 333-4

Street Eats In Chiang Mai

2010-02-05T00:53:00.001-08:00

My friend paid me a visit recently, expecting to have the experience of all Chiang Mai’s culinary delights. So, as he wished, I provided the perfect program as follows… Firstly, a dish of Hai-Lum steamed rice with chicken near to Chiang Mai Railway Station Although not a local food type, the traditional style of cooking used here provides an excellent flavor making it a place well worth a visit.

Moving down the road we had some Chinese buns at Salabao Vikul on nearby Charoenmuang Road, before sampling a bowl of sweet sesame-stuffed dumplings in ginger syrup at a place opposite the Warm Up Café on Nimmanhaeminda Road.

Afterwards came one of our most popular Lanna dishes; Khao Soi egg noodle curry soup. And there are certainly plenty of restaurant where this dish is served, so I would recommend Khao Soi Mae Manee, situated on the Mae Rim-Fang Road in a small alley next to the Department of Labor, open daily from 8 am.

In the afternoon, after some shopping at Kad Luang Market, my Bangkokian friend appeared to try something from each of the surrounding food vendors! Whenever I go to Kad Luang, I usually have a cup of fresh coffee or young coconut ice-cream. Café de Laujou was our next destination, located inside Laujou Alley opposite the Chinese temple. Aromatic coffee is served daily in this lovely little place. The coconut ice-cream can be found opposite 7-Eleven. This is also made fresh daily, and from 9 am – 5 pm everyday. Two thumbs up from my friend for the day’s dessert, too.

Of courses, it was impossible for him to try all the good restaurants in Chiang Mai in just a couple of days, for there truly are a massive number of them. From those in the city locale to those spread along the banks of the River Ping. However, as my friend requested local cuisine once again, I look him to the Duang Sompong restaurant in Mae Rim District. This eatery is one of the local people’s favorites. What are the recommended items? Well, every dish served here is worth recommending, so I suggest you get along there and find out why. As we finished dinner at 9 pm, the night was still young, so we went to chill out of The North Gate, the perfect place for fine live Jazz with competitively priced drinks.

The clock turned midnight. I jokingly asked my friend if he was ready for another meal. The answer was yes! So we moved to the renowned Kai Thieng Kuen (Midnight Fried Chicken) at Kampaengdin Road, the Thai rice noodle bar at San Pakhoi Market, and finally Chok Sompet where we enjoyed a warm bowl of traditional rice porridge.

This signified the end of the night, but as my friend pointed out, Chiang Mai is a never ending food experience, that just keeps deliciously rolling on…

GLORIOUS FOOD Chiang Mai

2010-02-03T22:12:00.000-08:00

Thinking back to when I was a child, I remember the early morning mist and the smoke from food my grandmother cooked for my school lunch box, It was as if the smoke and mist would making it impossible to separate them.

I would help my grandmother collect eggs from the nearby duck house, break them open, and stir their yellowy contents into some fish sauce and shallots. We would pour the mixture into a folded banana leaf, shaped like a boat, and grill it over charcoal in the traditional way until it was firm and smelling delicious. To accompany it, my sister would pick small cucumbers off the vine covering the bamboo fence of our house. Kai Pum is the old local item we use for eggs cooked this way in banana leaves. It’s a tasty and easy way to make breakfast.

And I might have been the only student who brought sticky rice and grilled fish to school at that time, instead of the more fashionable American fried rice or macaroni, as others students from the Catholic school loved to bring, But these days I feel as though I owe my grandmother a lot. She raised me as a Northern Thai woman, and now I have become a person who is proud of my roots, and the traditional ways of culture, especially our food.

In The Good Old Days

My grand mother used to say “When the time comes that we have to buy vegetables, rice, and water. Then it must be time for the end of the World!” For her generation there was rarely any need to buy food. Even as children, whenever we wanted to eat or cook something, we just fetched the ingredients from the garden or from the farm.

At the time of the Thai New Year (Song Kran) we would prepare fresh sugar cane to make Thai dessert; Kanom Tein (steamed rice flour stuffed with coconut), and Khao Tann or Khao Nang Led (rice crackers). You could hear the tok tok tok sound of things being cut upmon chopping boards resonating all around, that was the way of cooking Laab (Northern Thai Style minced pork), and we believed that eating Laab at the beginning of the year, brought luck, or money, it’s what some of us still believe. On Thai New Year’s Eve we would also have the chance to sample Gaeng Kanoon, a special jackfruit soup. It was thought that by eating this soup we would be supported, as the name of the jackfruit in Thai also relates to support, the kind that we give to each other as people.

Whenever we went to the rice field, we’d always gather Pak Waen (Northern Thai clover fern) and Plaa Kradi (a kind of fish). This was enough to make an unbelievably delicious dinner. One of the other most fun food for foraging activities for kids was trying to catch crabs for making Nam Poo (crab sauce) We’d crush lemon grass together with the field crabs to get rid of their strong smell, and be left with a rich dark sauce. This goes very well with boiled bamboo shoots, as a side dish.

Cooking spicy Northern Thai food is very easy on the whole, as long as you have some basic ingredients to make the paste used in most soups; chill, salt, garlic, red shallot onions, and Ka Pi (shrimp paste). My grandmother also told me, as a guideline, that when you create a Thai soup, if you are using beef then you’d better and more galangal to it, and if it’s a fish soup you better use a lot of lemon grass. For chicken, color the soup with turmeric. And if you would like to get an umami (broth like) taste, then add some crushed red onions. The rest depends on the chef, but you should be able to make your own delicious dishes following these simple rules, without resorting to monosodium glutamate! In fact, traditional natural methods of cooking food are becoming very popular again since a reaction to so many unnecessary chemical ingredients and excessive uses of high technology. Many people want a more personal connection to what they eat, the way it was grown, and how it is then packaged and produced.

When we talk about food in the North, we also need to talk about “rice” Sticky rice is a staple dish for Northern Thai families. Traditionally we eat sat on the floor, gathered around a circular table. A spicy soup is then normally rested on the table upon a round platform called the Kantok. There are different ways to then handle and mold the rice, including: Ong Ka Long Kwai Non, Huk Na Wok, Mur, Bai.

Fusing the Past with Present

And even while everyone was still growing and picking their own vegetables straight out of the garden, there were often different groups of foreigners setting and working in and around Chiang Mai. Well over a hundred years old. There was already a whole international riversidecommunity, driven by a burgeoning fumber trade. There was a Chinese, European, and Indian community. They mainly lived near the Wat Kate temple area known as Bann Ta Huan Pae, located opposite what is now the Lam Yai fresh produce market (opposite Warorot Market). They all equally brought their own ideas, and cultures of food to bear on the eating habits of everyone in the city, and that has continued right through to the present day. Chiang Mai’s international eating scene stands as a clear testament to the fact.

But while getting a real ‘taste of Chiang Mai’ is all about the mixing of different cultures, with new dishes being created daily, the charming old ways of how to cook and savor Northern Thai food has never failed to have an influence either.

One thing I can guarantee; once you step into this town you will never leave hungry, as there is so much good food for you to sample and enjoy, both authentic and contemporary.

Le Crystal Restaurant Chiang Mai

2010-02-03T18:46:00.000-08:00

Le Crystal voted Thailand’s Best Restaurant 2007-2009 by Thailand Tatler. Experience the Finest French Cuisine in a superb Lanna style venue on the Ping River. Select from their exceptional wine cellar and dine on delicate French cuisine in a magical garden setting. Warm atmosphere, soft music, attentive service and fine French dining create a romantic evening for two or the most pleasant place for a special occasion.

Properly prepared chocolate is good for an individual’s nervous system and mental health. Really! And several food aficionados in Chiang Mai agree that the ‘Warm Chocolate Cake’ at Crystal’s Cake Shop is a truly remarkable item.

Ingredients:

Unsalted butter 95 g
Dark chocolate 160 g
Eggs 3
Sugar 80 g
Flour 95 g

Method: Butter some remekins and sprinkle with flour, discarding the excess. Put in the chocolate and butter in a bowl set on a pan 0f simmering water and warm together. Keep stirring until blended and smooth. Whip the eggs and sugar till mixed, Slowly add the chocolate and butter mixture into the remekins and place in the fridge. Bake in the oven at 180c for 10mins before serving with ice-cream.

Open daily from 18.00 to 22.30 hours. Reservations are recommended. Complimentary transportation from the city.

Information…

Le Crystal Restaurant
74/2 Paton Rd., Chiang Mai City t+66 (0) 53 872 890-1
Complimentary transportation from the city info@lecrystalrestaurant.com, reservation@lecrystalrestaurant.com
http://www.lecrystalrestaurant.com/

Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai

2010-01-30T14:59:00.000-08:00

Among the extensive and high range of hotels within Chiang Mai downtown, many things have changed from the old days. But unlike the others, Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai aims to deliver a friendly traditional Lanna style resort with an architectural design based upon the city’s Lanna heritage.

With the outstanding interior design conceptual “Contemporary Thai Hospitality” emerges its red roofs, open-sided pavilions, extensive use of golden teak, and lushly green gardens. Each building is connected by bridge-walkways roof free to embrace the golden sun.

Most of the ancient trees have been nicely preserved and almost half of the land was turned into a wonderful Lanna Field. This resort hotel is on an intimate scale and offers all the warmth of a traditional Northern Thai hospitality. The extremely charming Royal Sala Spa Suite, with extra room area of 150.00 sq.m and 173.00 sq.m of Gazebo with a roof top garden and Jacuzzi. Moreover, every flamboyant room is also prompted with bathroom with separate bathtub and shower room, extra king size bed & twin beds, 42” LCD TV with satellite program and DVD Player as well as full-stocked mini-bar. Cool breeze and sweet scented flowers planted around the compound will allow you to relax in an enchanting natural environment making it an authentic venue to stay.

Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai is easily accessed just 800 meters directly from Chiang Mai Railway station and only 6 km. from Chiang Mai International Airport through a local road linked to Chiang Mai Gymkhana Sports Club. From the unique design of authentic style plus suitability in Lanna art and culture, it pleasantly combines richness in style reflecting the true spirit of Lanna culture. All this leads to a wonderful experience at Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai, the princess of magnificent Lanna.

Information…

Siripanna Villa Resort Chiang Mai
36 Ratcha U-thit, Tambol Watkate,
Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50000 Thailand
Tel. +66 (0) 5337 1999
Fax. +66 (0) 5337 1900
E-mail: svc@chr.co.th

Sinativa Spa Club Chiang Mai

2010-01-30T02:31:00.000-08:00

The original Chiang Mai Spa established since 1997, with high quality and unwavering concept of management “What others cannot offer, we can,” makes Sinativa Spa Club one of the best Destination Spas in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The spa is nicely located in the heart of Chiang Mai downtown set in the topical green garden. Here, you will find the Sinativa Spa Club ready to relax and pamper you in true Lanna style.

Sinativa offers a full range of uniquepackages: a 3 hour package will include a skin detoxification, facial treatment, a relaxing full body holistic aroma massage, an anti-oxidant body scrub, herbal steam, and a mineral / scented floral bath in Jacuzzi. The guests will be relaxed and fully revived after they unwind and let their cares, aches and pains waft away with the light breeze. Furthermore, Sinativa also uses skin-care products made only from the most valuable and suitable substances extracts from selected forests, fields and oceans providing the skin with everything that it needs to become beautiful, soft, firm and healthy.

The spa is housed in a fascinating old Lanna Thai residence perfumed with sweet fragrance most appealing to the sense of smell such as lavender, rose, and jasmine to give you that first leisure in life. Switch off your hectic life and come experience a spa journey that leads to your own sense of wellness. Calm down your spirit at a place where you belong, Sinativa Spa Club.

Information…

Sinativa Spa Club22 /1 Nimmanhemin Rd. Soi 9Tel. +66 (0) 5321 7928 Mobile: +66 (0) 8665 92545Free Transportation Opening hours: 9.00 a.m. – 22.00 p.m.

Lanna Come Spa Chiang Mai “A Touch of Sib Song Panna”

2010-01-30T02:24:00.000-08:00

Lanna Come Spa is the first Thai Northern spa which proudly showcases its distinctive Sib Song Panna style. Come feel the genuine contemporary atmosphere of upper northern region and enjoy all this natural beauty while luxuriating in the comfort of our warm welcome in Sib Song Panna style: a combination of Thai culture and our several mixing tea served with Thai delicious desserts.

After enjoying our relaxing warm welcome, we offer you a variety of spa treatments like Aroma Massage, Stone Massage and Ayurveda Massage for Hydrotherapy massage. Massaging in the water by Ozone Jet, this extraordinary jet is unique from all others as it is part of the hot tub's filtration system. When an ozonator is installed, the ozone is introduced into the water through this jet with color therapy to help sanitize the tub. The ozone will appear as a stream of small bubbles and will be active during heating and filtration cycles. Amazingly, 200-300 calories are burnt for a convenient 30-minutes massage. The most treatment that we would like to suggest is “Vichy Shower Massage”, a relaxing massage performed under sprinklers with water heated to match your body temperature. This massage increases circulation and lymphatic flows which aids the body in cleansing itself of toxins. Totally an incredible experience you don’t want to miss!

We also have several facial treatments like Skin Detox, Hydra Treatment, or making shining & bright face after a sun burnt immediately disappear with just the first use of our Professional skin care. Furthermore, the treatment that you definitely must try at Lanna Come Spa is “Gold Class Spa” which has the ingredient of pure gold. All our products in Lanna Come Spa are well selected from Thai local wisdom, Thai herbs and oversea imports.

Information…

Lanna Come Spa 88 Sridonchai Rd.,Changklan, Muang, Chiang Mai 50000 Thailand Tel. +66(0) 5327 4377 Fax. +66(0) 5323 5768

90/9 Home Mood Cuisine Chiang Mai

2010-01-28T14:03:00.000-08:00

Winter nights are so charming with crickets lovingly singing in the moonlight beams. Cool breeze and dazzling star embellish a delightful night. Occasionally after the rain, it seems like we can almost touch the rainbow over there. Every night in the rainy season, hundreds of hundreds of sparkling fireflies come out to celebrate their new circle of lives again. This is a wonderful happening at “nine-o-nine”.

This sweet little cuisine refreshes your body and mind with quality food and nature’s beauty. Dinner is a perfect time to revitalize and gain your strength. 90/9 expertly blended every dish mixing the good old days and the modern style such as the unique appetizer baked prawn with cheese served with garlic rice. Additionally, besides serving the finest Thai food, another favorite is the Grilled sirloin served with black pepper sauce. And please don’t forget to try River prawn with Panang sauce serve with black pasta and many more dishes on the menu guaranteed to taste super yummy. Just come take a seat under the big tree shade, spacious green garden surrounded with sweet scent of colorful flowers and whispering wind while having your favorite food. This is the easiest and most enjoyable way to take your stress away while cleansing your heart and soul filling it with gratification.

The location is along an attractive country road in Tambon Sunpheesue Amphoe Muang Chiang Mai. Separated from the Outer Ring, the road runs parallel to the Mae Ping River that leads you to a lovely home mood restaurant “nine-o-nine” an engagingly eye-catching restaurant that will surely bring you more joy and laughter among its natural tranquility.90/9 is opened from 5.00 p.m.-11.00 p.m. everyday except for the period of Nov. 2-9 of each year saved for Meditation Course.

Information…

90/9 Home Mood Cuisine 90/9 M.3 Tumbon Sanpheesua Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand Tel. +66 (0) 5311 0732-3Mobile. +66 (0) 8494 88909Fax. +66 (0) 5311 0732

Wat Chedi Chet Yod in Chiang Mai

2010-01-27T15:52:00.000-08:00

Wat Chedi Chet Yod located on the Chiang Mai-Lampang Super Highway, Wat Chedi Chet Yod is among the oldest temples in Chiang Mai and Lanna Kingdom. It is one of the most significant temples in terms of architectural style and aesthetic value. Buddhism had an important role in the Lanna Kingdom during the reign of King Tilokaraj (1441-1485). In the temple, there was a Bo tree which was planted by the order of the king. This became the origin of the name Wat Maha Botharam. In 1477, the king also held a meeting for senior monks to revise the Tripitaka. This gathering was known as the Eight World Buddhist Council and it was the first of such event to happen in the land of the Thai people. Interesting Facts: Seven-spired Square Chedi (Stupa)The shape of the stupa resembles the one of Mahabodi Temple in Bodhi Gaya in India. The top part or the roof consists of seven spires. The base, on the outside is decorated with stucco featuring angels in various costumes and in different postures such as sitting in meditation and standing. The stucco is the oldest and most unique in Lanna. The popular name “Wat Chet Yod” is derived from this seven-spired stupa.

Wat Chedi Liam or Chedi Ku Kham in Chiang Mai

2010-01-27T15:50:00.000-08:00

Wat Chedi Liam or Chedi Ku Khamin according to historical evidence, this temple was originally named “Wat Ku Kham”; Ku means ‘stupa’ and Kham means ‘gold’. It was built in the year 1188 by the command of King Mangrai during his reign in the Northern region. Distinctive feature of Wat Chedi Liam (Chedi Liam Temple) showing great influence of religious structure construction from the Lanna architecture is the pyramid like shape stupa. Made from bricks, the stupa is then covered with white cement with the balconies enshrining 15 Buddha images under each arch totaling to the amount of 60 Buddha images from all 4 sides.

The angular base is guarded by the 4 lions sitting and facing outward faithfully on watch. Between each lion rest the Buddha images displaying Pagan-Myanmar influence. The side of each arch is decorated with stucco floral vines and 2 protective serpents with their tails entwined all the way to the top on each side. At the top of each stupa is a delicate metal decoration distinctively different from other temples.

Wat Lok Moli in Chiang Mai

2010-01-27T15:46:00.001-08:00

Wat Lok Moli another treasured temple by the people of Chiang Mai is Wat Lok Moli (Lok Moli Temple). The exact origin date is not known but after World War 2 the Fine Arts Department registered this historical temple as an archeological site in the year 1959. Presently, this precious structure is used as a modern day blue print to unravel the splendor of Lanna Architecture’s past for the students of the Faculty of Architecture, Chiang Mai University. What distinguishes this site from other temples in the Northern region is the unique dimensional stucco designs decorating the entrance gable with distinctive Lanna style displaying wisdom and fine craftsmanship of the Lanna artists in that era.

Interesting Facts:

Wiharn Luang The temple was built with teak wood, a distinctive feature of Lanna architecture. On both sides of the stairs leading up to the temple are two mythical serpents creating an awesome feeling. The front part is colorfully decorated with colored glass with the 3-tier roof overlapping on top. The floor is painted black to brilliantly reflect the shimmering glass colors that seem to dance vividly right before your eyes. The ceiling is adorned with gilded wood carvings chronicling the life cycle of the Lord Buddha. The beauty is just beyond any descriptive words.

Wat Pan Tao in Chiang Mai

2010-01-27T15:41:00.000-08:00

Wat Pan Tao located on Phra Pok Klao Road, Phra Sing District, Amphur Muang, this temple is believed to be dated as old as Wat Chedi Luang (Chedi Luang Temple). As the legend goes, this place had many kilns used for creating Buddha images for Chedi Luang Temple. Thus, the name “Pan Tao” meaning ‘thousand kilns’ was given. Similar to the name but slightly different in pronunciation, this temple housed the Buddha image name “Phra Pan Tao” meaning ‘thousand times’. It has been said that if you made a wish, whatever it might be, would multiply to hundreds and thousands of time.

Interesting Facts:

Wiharn Luang Pan Tao shrine perfectly displays all the artistic elements of the most beautiful wooden Lanna structure in the North. Above the arch gable is the beautifully hand craved exquisite peacock, the royal emblem and a symbol for the Northern royal court. It stands gracefully on a Hmon (mythical animal carrying “Thep Pachchunna” the rain god) distinctively showcased in an elegant triangle frame. The only feature that is not Lanna is the wooden style panel wall, called “Fa Ta Paa” by the Lanna people. These particular panel walls were generally found in houses of the Central region part of Thailand. The roof structure is precisely built by jig sawing the pieces together without using a single nail. Presently, Wat Pan Tao is registered as a national archeological building since 1980.

Wat Chiang Man in Chiang Mai

2010-01-27T15:09:00.000-08:00

Wat Chiang Man located on Ratchapakhinai Road, this temple is the oldest and the first of its kind in Chiang Mai. After the establishment of the city in 1296, King Mangrai ordered the construction of the stupa at Ban Chiang Man. This particular location was chosen because it had served as a temporary royal pavilion for the King as he waited for the completion of the city construction. He named the pavilion “Wiang Lek” meaning ‘city of steel’. Later, as a sign of his dedication to the faith of Buddhism, King Mangrai made an offering of this historic site and proclaimed it as the first royal temple. Thus, the auspicious name “Wat Chiang Man” meaning ‘Temple of the City of Strength’ was given.

Interesting Facts:

Chedi Chang Lom (Stupa Surrounded by Elephants)The highlight of this Lanna style stupa is its bell shape surrounded by 16 elephants standing guard around the square base. The elephants signify strength and support for the strong faith of Buddhism.

Wiharn Chaturamuk (Four – Corner Balcony Wiharn)The worshiping shrine holds the Phra Se Taang Kamanee or Phra Kaew Khao (Crystal Buddha) dated back more than 1,800 years old. The Buddha image has great significant religious value to the people of Chiang Mai. It is carved from crystal clear rock depicting the Lord Buddha in a meditation position. The temple also holds Phra Sila dated as far back as more than 2,500 years old. It is a stone Buddha image carved in the Northern Indian Pala style depicting the Lord Buddha taming the Nara Kiri elephant.

The Buddha image stands on the lotus base under an arch; his right hand hovering over the crouching elephant while his left hand is held up in a forgiving blessing position or giving a sermon as his disciples look on from the left side. It is priceless Buddha image well respected and worshiped by the people of all ages. The four walls of the temple are adorned with golden gilded painting telling tales of the Chiang Mai city establishment. The Lanna calligraphy and exquisite designs brilliantly display Lanna’s ancient arts.

The Wonders of Banana Tree

2010-01-25T07:13:00.000-08:00

Many of us have the phrases “Easy-peasy”, “nothin’ to it” and “piece of cake” or maybe the Thai expression, “as easy as peeling a banana,” I agree that peeling a banana is easy, but many people neglect the banana’s significance and value. Bananas are invaluable in our lives in countless ways. With earth facing a crisis with global warming, banana trees are plants that can help save the planet. They not only grow quickly can be planted on every kind of terrain, but bananas provide moisture to soil also. Whenever I plant perennial plants, I always plant bananas as well as a helpful assistant. When the perennial plants are still small, the banana tree can provide shade and when the perennial plants are fully grown the banana tree can be moved to another location. The value of the banana tree is not limited to the above-mentioned reasons also however. Another important reason is that bananas are a good industrial crop which exemplifies the concept of a “Self-Sufficiency Economy.”

Bananas can be used in a variety of packaging and wrapping or used in oblations such as in an offering for a spirit invitation ceremony, or “Krathong” (banana float), or used in general decoration decorate your place, Its trunk can be used as string to bind and bundle things together due to its natural strength. Its blossom can be cooked or eaten while still fresh. Raw bananas can be cooked for food, light meals and dessert. Ripe bananas can be made into desserts, dried, deep-fried or just eaten providing high nutritional value.

I think there’s no country in the world that appreciates the value of the banana tree like Thailand. In my opinion, banana trees can relieve many of our burdens by reducing pollution through supporting the self sufficiency concept. We should all plant some banana trees in our backyard. This world be helpful too in case of an emergency because you can depend on the leaves, stem, blossom, and fruits to help your family and household. Of course it can also is used to supplement your income in the future

Information…

Baan Suan Klang Pa Pa Ta Vegetarian Restaurant located middle room of JJ Hobby Market Atsadathom Road, Chang Puek sub district, Muang district, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Children’s Shelter Home Union Chiang Mai

2010-01-24T12:19:00.000-08:00

If you are born and have an opportunity to live with your parents in warm family, it will surely be like you are heavenly blessed, In contrary, it will be very desolate and lonely if we are born and have nobody; i.e. AID-infected orphans and who face physical deficiency (mostly deaf and mute). They need love and care from family like ordinary persons. Only few people may understand these children’s feeling, and sometimes they are discriminated. However, if there’s a hope; they will be light, once Khun “Joy” Thaneen Worrawittayakhun and Khun Ulrike Elisabeth Melster collaborating together to give these children warm family and hope under the title “Children’s Shelter Home Union Chiang Mai” which is an affiliate project with “School for life; Chiang Mai”. Both project have been established under family management and administration concept in order to give love and care of being warm family and also conserve the natural-living lifestyle for children, so that these children the natural-living lifestyle for children; so that these children the will have new home and new life under supervision of “Lakeland House”, located only 5 minutes walk from School for Life.

Khun Joy told us about the school establishment “These children come from many places and each has their ower problem. We have to build a family as we have our teachers who also parents for each house. Then, children have right to choose and live in any house they want. They cannot change to live in other once they make their decision to enter a house. They have to be sure that can learn from our rules. Also, parents must have their techniques to bring up children as their own children. Children who and deaf and mute must learn sign language, which is different from other houses because all learning and details depend on teachers’skills.

Otherwise, we have to pay additional expenses, and that’s what we have to be economical. All of children have to study like others. But some may be behind-scheduled; for example children who are 12 years still attend grade-1 class. Although they are handicapped, they can attend class together with grade-2 students without feeling awkward.”

Children’s Shelter Home Union Chiang Mai & School for life, Chiang Mai is like place to treat these children to walk to bright future and have warm family. And offers opportunity to children who have physical deficiency to communicate with other people normally, By the way, this project will not happen if there is no support from us and related organizations, Are you ready to be a contributor and provide support to these children?

Information…

Children’s Shelter Home Union Chiang Mai located on Tambon Pamiang, Amphur Doisaket, Chiang Mai, Thailand Tel.087-1729909, www.childrens-shelter.com

Chiangmai Bakermart, Baker’s mate…

2010-01-24T09:33:00.001-08:00

When you go out and want to buy some delicious biscuits, your only answer is a bakery. But it you to want make some delicious biscuits yourself “Chiangmai Bakermart” is your only answer.

Twenty years ago, Chiangmai Bakermart started providing a service which has become very well-known as the first and only complete bakery store in Chiang Mai Province that sells a whole range of baking ingredients, kitchen gadgets and food packaging materials. Nowadays, Chiangmai Bakermart is not only the best friend of bakery lovers, but can also meet the professional needs of restaurants and businesses from local coffee shops to luxurious hotel restaurants.

When you enter Chiangmai Bakermart, besides being impressed by the convenience of being able to purchase all baking product such as cookbooks, baking ingredients and food packaging material in one place, Chiangmai Bakermart also provides baking demonstrations and arranges seminars for interested customers.

All of this and more is available from your best friends at Chiangmai Bakermart for you…

Information…

Chiangmai Bakermart Partnership Limited located on Lamphun Road Nhong Hoi sub district, Chiang Mai, Thailand Open daily from 8.00 a.m. – 6.30 p.m.

Krok Lao Restaurant (Literally means “Laotian mortar”)

2010-01-23T23:30:00.000-08:00

If I mention to any food which is easy to find, easy to cook, contains lots of nutrients, cheap and also northern region’s uniqueness, the first choice in my mind including me is definitely “Somtam”.

Although many people think Somtam (Papaya Spicy Salad) is only a plain food, can be found anywhere, and all the same every restaurant, it’s kinda true, I don’t argue their opinion. However, I would like to introduce a new native restaurant, called “Krok Lao” who serves very tasty papaya spicy salad, in cheap price and sanitary, located at McCormick Hospital intersection opposite to the Price Royals’ College, not too far, right? If you wish to look for something to fulfill your need, you’d better be trying to acquire it. Here at Krok Lao, the place is well-decorated and very clean. The interior is also spacious, well-arranged and well-ventilated. The most impressive thing to my is a hospitality from the ower who always welcomes, takes care and providers good service to every customer (sometimes I’m quite confused whether he is a waiter or owner). Besides, all materials used here are newly fresh and clean everyday while there are varieties of menu to choose; such as variety of papaya spicy salad (Thai style. Laotian style, with or without crab), charcoal-broiled chicken, charcoal-broiled pork neck, charcoal-broiled intestine, or freshly-hot charcoal-broiled meat from the stove or variety of tasty spicy salad.

It’s up to you to choose what you like. Also, for those of you who cannot eat spicy food, Krok Lao also serves you rice and curries, Ka Nom Jeen (Thai vermicelli eaten with curry) including dried sukiyaki. Once you visit here, you don’t have to look for food from anywhere else because it’s all complete. Another impression to this restaurant is the food price which is not expensive at all. I all agree that I almost choke with the food and its low cost. It’s worth paying during the era that everything seems to be expensive.

As I said since the beginning. If I am to choose sometime to fulfill my need. It’d better be something worth and pleasant for mine, even something ordinary like “Somtam” which is something simple. If you wish to look for delicious and low-price somtam, “Krok Lao” will be definitely one of undeniable choices for me.

Information…

Krok Lao Restaurant located next to McCormick Hospital opposite to the Prince Royals’s College Kaew Nawarat Road,Watgate sub district Muang district, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Charcoa House the Cozy Bed & Breakfast

2010-01-22T22:46:00.001-08:00

The Charcoa Hotel and restaurant is located in the old city of Chiang Mai. At this loveable area they have created a lovely Bed & Breakfast for your relaxation and tranquility. I am sure you will enjoy your stay in this beautiful European country home. Charcoa serves you international meals, original Thai food, different appetizers and delicious coffee grown in the surrounding mountains of Northern Thailand. Certainly there are a lot of activities to do in and around Chiang Mai, so I would like to invite you to stay at this exclusive Hotel and enjoy your holidays in Chiang Mai.

The rooms at Charcoa Hotel are very well furnished. Their standard room offers refrigerator, air conditioning, flat screen TV and many other useful things like internet connection. They have accomplished the ambience of the rooms with stylish furniture and tropical plants and flowers. You will have a choice between double, single or twin rooms. All rooms have their private bathroom and a small balcony. Every room is located away from the street and is very quiet, so you can be sure to have a good night sleep after your adventures in Chiang Mai. You can choose your like; Superior Room, Deluxe Room, Deluxe Family Room, and Studio Attic Room.

Bakery is well known in Chiang Mai and I also think that customers will always remember the good taste of Charcoa Bakery goods. Charcoa bakes daily and also deliver their goods to many other coffee shops and restaurant. Open Daily 8.00 a.m to 9.30 p.m.

Information…

Charcoa House the Cozy Bed & Breakfast located on Sripoom road, A.Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand

91 Coffee

2010-01-22T20:18:00.000-08:00

During the hurried moments of this winter season, when weekend holidays come, I all get urge to escape from the hectic city and replenish our energy amid a pleasant setting surrounded by nature. You can find this atmosphere at 91 Coffee where you will smell the tantalizing fragrance of 100% Arabica Catimor coffee which is derived from the Coffea Arabica Catimor strain and immunized from Leaf Rush which can effect coffee. This particular strain is imported from Portugal and is harvested by 91 coffee beans are red and ripe and then roasted according to certified menthods employing a royal project organic system which utilizes natural fertilizer and nutrients. Then, the best beans are selected and shelled using a water method which is clean, effective and environmentally sound. The beans are roasted in limited quanitities, just enough to sell in the shops or according to custom package as it is opened. By this strenuous process you can be sure that every cup of special espresso coffee is a masterful brew for coffee lovers.

During this winter season, if you who want to enjoy a peaceful natural setting, then just visit 91 Coffee and refresh yourself with a fragrant cup of coffee that will wash away your anxiety and fatigue from work. 91 Coffee always welcomes you with an open heart…

Information…

91 Coffee located…

Branch 1 : Chiang Mai-Chiang Rai Road (Kilometer No.48 on Highway NO.118)
30 Moo 2; Tambon Pamiang, Doi Saket district, Chiang Mai 50220
Open daily from 07.00 a.m. – 09.00 p.m.

Branch 2 : Mae Khachan Hot Spring
Open daily from 08.00 a.m. – 08.00 p.m.

Branch 3 : In front of Wat Puaklam located on Samian Road, Soi 7, Tambon Phra Singh, Muang district, Chiang Mai

Open daily from 08.00 a.m. – 08.00 p.m.
Free Internet Wi-Fi