Visiting Thailand

Full Article: 36 Hours in Chiang Mai, Thailand

36 Hours in Chiang Mai, Thailand
By JOSHUA KURLANTZICK

BLESSED with a cooler climate than Bangkok and buffered by lush mountains, Chiang Mai has long served as a backpacker’s gateway to Thailand’s northern reaches. But an influx of Thai artists and Western expatriates has turned this quiet city into a vibrant destination in its own right. Design studios have sprung up in town, fusing traditional Thai with modern twists. Age-old curries are now paired with Australian red wines and croissants. The area around Nimanhaemin Road now looks like South Beach, packed with BMWs and Art Deco homes, alongside contemporary art galleries run by young Thais with purple hair and nose rings. But traditional Chiang Mai is still there. Walk away from Nimanhaemin into the old city and you’ll see shaved monks meditating and backpackers chowing down on banana pancakes.

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Full Moon Party
Originally uploaded by re-ality

The Full Moon Party in Koh Panghan is one of Thailand’s most famous repeating festivals. Every month there is a Full Moon Party in Koh Panghan on Had Rin Nok beach, and thousands of people visiting Koh Panghan take part.

As the name implies, the Full Moon Party in Koh Panghan takes place on the night of the full moon, which changes monthly. Music and dancing are all part of the Full Moon Party, and the party lasts all night.