Month: February 2015

CHIANG MAI: Rose of Northern Thailand

This cultural capital of the Lanna Kingdom wows visitors with ancient wonders while keeping pace with a modern enthusiasm for adventure, all set amongst the fragrant backdrop of the city’s annual Flower Festival.

cropped-logo_ie_99.jpgFebruary 2015, Issue #134

Story & Photography by Gail G. Collins

It is said that in 1296, when King Mengrai saw a large mouse and four smaller ones scurry down a hole under a holy Bodhi tree, he established this city to stand as the heart of his Lanna Kingdom. A moat surrounds old Chiang Mai, and its corner defensive bastions remain, reminders of early battles for control. After more than 700 years, this population of 200, 000 on the Ping River still boasts the greatest concentration of handicrafts in Thailand. Continue reading “CHIANG MAI: Rose of Northern Thailand”