Chang Me? No, Chiang Mai!!

Chiang Mai serves as a refreshing escape from the tourism saturated islands of Southern Thailand. Unique and authentic culture fills the historic streets of Chiang Mai’s old city. Enclosed by a 700 year old moat lays a labyrinth of endless small local restaurants, shops and temples. Additionally, this is the first city I've truly seen a military presence during the coup. Soldiers are stationed throughout the main points of the area and military hummers are constantly patrolling. Do not worry though - they are incredibly friendly. I was even able to take my first "Military Selfie" which I consider a complete cultural success. Today is my fourth day and I have gained an exceptional introduction experience into the cultural of this historic city.

If you are traveling, do not be stressed to create specific accommodation plans. Upon my arrival at the airport, a taxi drove me to the Chiang Mai Rock Climbing Adventure company for 80baht (since my goal for this trip was climbing, I figured this was a good starting point.) From there, I simply strolled up the road for less than five minutes and saw endless hostels, guesthouses, hotels, etc. I personally chose a small guesthouse called Baan NaNa (the name was easy enough to remember – Banana!) The guesthouse is simple, affordable and included free breakfast. If that wasn’t enough of a seller, there is an old tuk-tuk that has been turned into a bar and also an authentic French crepe stand in front – perfect for late night snacks and drinks!

My first day was spent wandering the streets in an attempt to become oriented. The city is truly beautiful and well manicured. The old moat spouts fountains and hosts homes to grass lawns, trees and flower gardens. Within the inner city there are multiple temples whose golden peaks and artfully decorated roofs can be seen popping out from behind stonewalls. The city is a beautiful combination of East and West. A refreshing breathe of true Thai culture.

My personal favorite restaurant during my first few days is called the Funky Monkey Café. A small stand with a few dozen chairs around it, the Funky Monkey serves delicious smoothies as well as Fanang (foreign) and Thai food for incredibly cheap prices! Keep aware of the price differences throughout the old city. If a restaurant or coffee house looks westernized, the prices most likely are, too. I’ve found coffee for 75baht and some for 20baht. Keep an open eye and good deals are everywhere.

While in Chiang Mai I had the pleasure of playing Ultimate Frisbee Pick-Up with the local team here (https://www.facebook.com/groups/cm.ultimate/ ) – A great group of locals and foreigners who get together every Monday, Thursday and Saturday @ 5pm. It was a co-ed field and the skill levels ranged from beginner to experienced. Overall, a very laidback and fun atmosphere with a great group! After the matches, the team was friendly and even invited me to join and watch the Germany vs. USA World Cup match at a popular local meeting point called the UN Irish Pub.

I spent most of the day Friday exploring and also doing some climbing conditioning at CMRCA ( https://www.facebook.com/thailandclimbing?fref=nf ). Although the gym only hosts a small bouldering wall with roughly 10-15 routes, it is a resource I recommend for anyone coming to Chiang Mai for climbing. The gym has weights, fingerboards and other means of conditioning. Additionally, gear rental and organized climbing and caving trips are possible from here.  If you are an experienced climber with your own gear, there is also the option of transportation out to the popular Crazy Horse crag with lunch included for 300baht round trip. I met my climbing partner through the bulletin board that advertises local climbing news and fellow solo traveling climbers. 

Crazy Horse was a fantastic area for climbing. My partners and I did various lead climbs in Tamarind Village, the Furnace and Crazy Horse crag. The rock is encompassed by fantastic jungle scenery and boosts a secluded, natural setting that is refreshing after areas such as Tonsai and Railay. Routes vary with difficulties ranging between 5a – 7b+. CMRCA also works to help maintain routes and bolts so the area is safe and up-to-date.  My personal favorite was called route was in Tamarind Village and is called the Chimney Sweep. A 6a, 6 bolt route that is just fun! Highly recommended.  Bring plenty of mosquito spray when going to Crazy Horse and be aware that June-October hosts the monsoon season as well as wasp season so be wary of that!

After climbing, my new friend Steve and I rode the moped around the maze of Chiang Mai just exploring back alleyways and secret streets. A great find during this adventure was called Beer Republic. Now, as much as we backpackers love Chang and Leo… a nice western beer is sure appreciated from time to time. Beer Republic offers draft beers from Germany, Belgium, England and so on. Additionally, they sell beer samplers! Steve and I enjoyed a good Hefeweizen and IPA that was delicious and refreshing and tasted like you know… real beer.

Tonight is the famous Sunday Market here in Chiang Mai. Supposed to me a massive display of local crafts, trinkets and of course – FOOD! Tomorrow I depart for the infamous moped drive to Pai. The drive takes roughly 3 hrs and includes something along the lines of 170 turns, should be fun!

Any questions about Chiang Mai climbing, contact myself of CMRCA.