CM/CR Trip Part 3

15 Nov-This is the day we head to Chiang Rai. We had asked Dao, our host, to pre arrange 2 taxis for us. It came for us on time and we got a good price through our efficient host. Reaching the arcade bus terminal, we found some seats to wait around. Its a good time to chill, enjoy the laid back vibe of the bus terminal. They actually have very decent food in and around the terminal, and one can get snacks for the approx. 3 hour bus ride ahead. The coach ride is very comfortable, and there are enough stopover points for us to stretch our legs and get toilet breaks. Before we know it, we arrived at Chiang Rai. Bus station 2 is the main one, and it's under renovation so a temporary tentage is set up. The whole place has a small town vibe which makes it very likeable. We proceed from there to our hotel at Nak Nakara.

Our first meal at CR-another roadside food shop with noodles and chicken rice. This noodle soup comes with blood cakes, either chicken or pig blood..not bad, in fact quite tasty. Something extinct in Sinkieland. There is a small 2 storey mall opposite the eatery, something very old fashioned. Can get some air con breeze there; CR is a little more humid than CM. it is also quieter and more sleepy, especially on a Sunday.

The rest of the day we spend in the hotel and also scouting for a good local tour. The gold clock tower at a main road junction is the main icon and landmark of CR. From there, make a few turns we found a more vibrant alley with 3 local tour agencies. The tour agency boss recommended the Sunday night market some 15mins walk down. This place is less crowded than night markets in CM, and has good stuff too. Its best to take a break in the middle as its a long stretch.

First stall upon entering-CR Lok Lok

grab a cold drink

Our dinner is something western. The waitress told us she love Singapore when we told her where we came from. So sweet indeed.

this place is at the fringe of the night market

salmon steak

The tour next day started with the black and white temples, built by 2 different rich man. The black house was abit more interesting with some live animals at the courtyard, like snakes, owls and birds. Next stop was a huge park with a tea plantation.

tea plantation

Summit restaurant selling organic produce

Another note worthy stop of the local tour, is the monkey cave. They live in a lovely place with very good fengshui; mountains behind, lake in front, many luscious trees; better than us in the city.

monkey love peanuts, and bananas

follow you only becoz of food