Travel Guides & Tips
Expert insights for exploring Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand
Muay Thai in Chiang Mai: Which Stadium Fights on Which Night
Four stadiums, one city, and not all of them fight every night. Here is who is on when, where each one is, and what a ringside seat actually gets you.
Ethical Elephant Sanctuaries in Chiang Mai: How to Choose Well (and What a Day Is Really Like)
No riding, no tricks, just elephants being elephants: how to recognize a genuinely ethical sanctuary in Chiang Mai, what a visit day really looks like, and how to choose between half-day, full-day, and private experiences.
Muay Thai in Chiang Mai: Where to Watch a Real Fight Night
Sarama music, the wai khru ritual, and the crack of shin on pads: watching Muay Thai live in Chiang Mai is unforgettable. Here is how a fight night works, where the stadiums are, and how to get good seats at fair prices.
Grand Canyon Water Park Chiang Mai: The Quarry Lagoon Day Out
An old quarry south of Chiang Mai turned into turquoise lagoons with a giant floating aqua park, cliff jumps, a 400-meter zipline, and wakeboarding. Here is what Grand Canyon Water Park is like and how to plan your splash day.
Chiang Mai's Weekend Markets: The Saturday and Sunday Walking Streets
Every weekend two Chiang Mai streets close to traffic and turn into the North's best evening out: Saturday on silversmith Wua Lai Road, Sunday through the old city on Ratchadamnoen. When to go, what to eat, and how to haggle kindly.
Changklan Road: The Story of Chiang Mai's Night Bazaar Street (Our Home Street)
Changklan Road went from Yunnanese trading caravans to Thailand's most famous nightly market, and it is also where our two offices are. History, the Night Bazaar today, Kalare, Anusarn, and how to do our home street properly.
Luggage Storage in Chiang Mai: Where to Leave Your Bags and Explore Hands-Free
Hotel checkout at noon but your flight leaves at night? Here is exactly where to store your luggage in Chiang Mai: two secure, staffed locations by the Night Bazaar, transit to monthly rates, late pickup options, and a delivery service that brings your bags to Chiang Mai Airport so you never have to double back.
First Time in Chiang Mai: Everything You Need to Know
Chiang Mai is the cultural heart of Northern Thailand where ancient temples, lush mountains, amazing food, and warm local hospitality come together. This first-timer’s guide covers everything you need to know before you visit, from must-see sights and practical tips to the best tours and experiences you can book online or with our local offices at The Astra and Astra Sky River.