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

Ulaanbaatar , Cheap stuff:
6/10

Local "black" markets have much to offer. Language barrier is an issue, so bartering can be problematic. Best to have a local as a guide and don't be surprised at the practice of Mongols being charged far less than tourist.

Cashmire is a reasonable purchase. A cashmire or camelhair blanket will be a purchase you will enjoy for decades.

Ulaanbaatar , Don't miss:
10/10

Milk Vodka...

Ulaanbaatar , Food:
5/10

International cuisine can be found. No McDonalds yet. Traditional Mongol food can be found and if you like mutton you will be in heaven.

Ulaanbaatar , Hotels:
2/10

There are only really 2 to chose from.

Ulaanbaatar , Safety:
5/10

Be very careful of traffic. Pickpockets. Being out at night might be a problem, yet doesn't seem to bother residents, but much of the city's once operational street lighting doesn't work.