Chiang Mai   Ever had a holiday where you had wished there was more to do or where you'd tried something a little different?   If so, then you obviously haven't tried a stay in Chiang Mai!   There literally is something for everyone from bathing in a hot spring, giving alms to a monk at one of the city's beautiful historic temples or riding in a traditional ox cart. The good news is that most of Thailand's handicrafts are made in Chiang Mai and the surrounding villages and "must buys" include wood crafts, ceramics and textiles.   I personally have never managed a trip to Chiang Mai without buying at least one of each of the above!   It really is a place where you find yourself with bags full of things you never knew you needed but just had to have. In addition, as well as being an excellent place to learn Thai massage, Chiang Mai is a centre for holistic medicine and there are many courses to choose from in yoga, Thai chi, massage and meditation.   So, a trip to Chiang Mai could a chance to wind down whilst learning one of these ancient oriental arts. As with Bankok, my first piece of advise to visitors to Chiang Mai is to buy a Nancy Chandler Map.   It is excellently researched and comes with an index so you will have no trouble finding the places which you want to go, plus a whole load more.   Nancy's map can be bought from any good book store or alternatively visit www.nancychandler.net More About Chiang Mai ... 40 things you can do in Chiang Mai Our destination guide Links to guide book websites Getting about in Chiang Mai The "Low Down"... Sight seeing Shopping Get sporty Chill out - heath, beauty and relaxation National Parks Where to Stay? Close to Chiang Mai's historical walled city, the Amari Rincome Hotel reflects the unique culture of the north.   The bright guestrooms are accented with wooden carvings and colourful fabrics.  Works of art and antiques can be found throughout the hotel and the restaurants offer the opportunity to try special northern Thai dishes as well as Italian and international favourites.   Two swimming pools, and tennis courts are all available on the grounds while there are many other activities like elephant trekking, golf and mountain-biking nearby. The area surrounding the hotel is particularly cosmopolitan with design shops, wine bars and art galleries. More about the hotel...