Chiang Mai is simply, “just one of those places.” Chiang Mai has that certain quality that leaves an everlasting impression on the soul. The city is a popular destination for the 21st century blogger/digital nomad/healer/artist/you name it/ well intentioned wandering soul. It is a hub among hubs. The city naturally ushers in expat communities worldwide to touch and tune in to the very fibers of ones authentic nature. The cafés, restaurants and city streets are a buzz with innovative projects and creative endeavors, lifting spirits worldwide.
Chaing Mai is located in Northern Thailand, surrounded by majestic mountains and hill tribe communities that lie beyond the “Old City” walls. Spiritual pilgrimages and outdoor adventures beckon the traveler near and far to jump in a tuk tuk, songthaew, taxi, motorcycle or bus and weave with care through the bustling city streets to a world far far away.
Dating back 700 years, Chiang Mai is home to over two hundreds golden wats that are interwoven throughout and beyond the city walls. Wats are monasteries or (schools with temples). A monastic life in Chiang Mai is very much alive today. Monks are seen walking the streets of Chiang Mai on any given day. Monks are very much appreciated and honored for their simple, yet brightly illuminated path. It is written that eighty five percent of the population in Chiang Mai practices Buddhism, today.
Whisked away by this charm filled city, many gems await to be discovered. Ancient trees with giant sun lit Buddhas adorn the streets. Luminous gongs, labyrinths and sacred spots invite a pause inside a world of simplicity and grace. A walkabout throughout the old city of Chiang Mai often inspires a slower rhythm of life, spontaneously encouraging one to take a giant leap of faith and perhaps begin a new chapter in ones life.
ALISUN TREES
Comments 2
Hello, Nice post – I particularly love the pictures. We have lived in Chiang Mai for almost two years now and so can attest to the fact that it is an easy city to set up a home base, while you travel around the north part of Southeast Asia, namely Myanmar, northern Thailand and Laos. The city is changing, however, with numerous condo buildings going up simultaneously and many worry about that “charming feeling” going away. One concern of the locals here is to maintain the green-ness of the mountain and so there is a current law that no buildings can be constructed on the mountains, but there is also a law that states no buildings can be higher than 4 floors and since we live on the 6th floor of our 8 story building, you can see that perhaps this is more like a suggestion. 🙂
Thanks ladies! You are an inspiration! Definitely see you next time.