Chiang Mai , General info:
9/10

To those that have visited Chiang Mai, Thailand they love it and thousands of foreigners have made this their home in retirement. But yet many still have not heard of Chiang Mai which is Thailand\'s 2nd largest city at only 300k population (city but outlying areas).

Chiang Mai is located about 1 hr north of Bangkok by plane and is cooler, cleaner, less traffic, less pollution and lower priced than Bangkok or Pattaya or Puket.

Chiang Mai , Different stuff:
7/10

If you are not from these parts some of the fruits and food you will not be accustomed to and we suggest sampling as much as you can and only watch out for foods with hot peppers as you have to develop a tolerance for the types and amount of peppers to add.

Chiang Mai , Food:
10/10

One of the best things about Chiang Mai and Thailand are the foods and fruits most of which are grown locally including strawberries.

So many different types of fruits that after living here for several years I have still not tasted them all.

The food is delicious and cheap.

Chiang Mai , Hotels:
10/10

Udon Thani , General info:
5/10

A major commercial center in north east Thailand, a primarily agricultural region. The main areas of interest however lie outside the city, rather than within the main conurbation.

Udon Thani , Cheap stuff:
8/10

Local silks and cottons

Thai and Isaan food

Udon Thani , Different stuff:
10/10

Try eating an insect, morlam music festivals or ploghing the paddies!

Udon Thani , Don't miss:
5/10

Ban Chiang museum

Dancing orchids

Excellent local food

Udon Thani , Food:
10/10

From the simplest stertt hawkers to more formal restauaranst, Udon Thani has a wide range of eateries.

Udon Thani , Hotels:
10/10

Gecko Villa - geckovilla.com

Green Gecko - thaivillarent.com

Udon Thani , Safety:
10/10

Very safe.