Traditional + Contemporary Art of Northern Thailand

January 20-31, 2027
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Rhode Island School of Design Alumni

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Traditional + Contemporary Art of Northern Thailand

Prepared for RISD, this journey explores the vibrant intersection of traditional and contemporary art across Northern Thailand. Experience Bangkok’s temples and art centers, hands-on workshops, UNESCO heritage sites, and creative spaces in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, immersing yourself in the region’s rich cultural and artistic heritage.

Journey Through Thai Art

Journey Through Thai Art image

At a glance

Day 1 - Depart USA for Thailand

Day 1 - Depart USA for Thailand image

Begin Your Journey to Thailand

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Flight details and visa requirements

Airfare is not included in the cost of the program. Individuals are to book their own flights. Please bring copies of any online visas you filled out in advance.

US Citizens do not need a visa, but will need to complete a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) prior to departure.

Day 2 - Arrive in Bangkok and Settle In

January 20, 2027
Day 2 - Arrive in Bangkok and Settle In image

Arrive in Bangkok, Check-in and Rest

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Arrive in Bangkok (BKK)

Upon arrival at Suvanaphum International airport (BKK) in Bangkok, collect your luggage, go through customs and proceed to the arrivals hall.

Make your own way to the hotel. Check-in (or leave bags with reception until guaranteed check-in time; early check-in available as needed for an additional $100 per room).

Lunch and dinner on own expense, recommendations provided. Remainder of the day free to rest and refresh.

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Riva Surya Bangkok or similar

Day 3 - Bangkok Temples, Grand Palace, and Art

January 21, 2027
Day 3 - Bangkok Temples, Grand Palace, and Art image

Explore Bangkok's Temples

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel.
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Transfer to activities via private coach

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Bangkok Temples and Monuments Tour

Meet your guide and head out to explore the main temples and monuments, discover a few hidden gems, and gain an insightful introduction into Thai culture and its fascinating history.
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Wat Pho Visit

Experience the monks' early morning chanting ritual during your visit to Wat Pho, Bangkok’s oldest temple. Discover the country's largest reclining Buddha, also known as the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
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Lak Muang City Pillar

Continue to Lak Muang City Pillar, which represents the foundational stone of Bangkok.
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Grand Palace and Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Step into the Grand Palace, the official residence of the royal families from 1782 until 1925, before admiring the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Pra Kaew), the most revered shrine in the Kingdom dating back to the early 18th century.
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Group lunch at local restaurant

Group lunch at local restaurant.
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Bangkok Kunsthalle Visit

After lunch, head to Bangkok Kunsthalle, a dynamic, rigorous, and accessible cultural institution devoted to art, cinema, music, dance, literature, architecture, and other creative languages.
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Return to hotel for a refresh

Return to hotel for a refresh.
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Welcome dinner with local artist

Gather and depart together for your welcome dinner with local artist (could be someone like Hongjorn Sanitteh Emjaroen or Vasan Sitthiket TBC).
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Transfer back to the hotel via private coach

Transfer back to the hotel via private coach.
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Riva Surya Bangkok or similar

Overnight at Riva Surya Bangkok or similar.

Day 4 - Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Jim Thompson House, Street Art

January 22, 2027
Day 4 - Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, Jim Thompson House, Street Art image

Explore BACC, Jim Thompson House, and Bangkok Street Art

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Breakfast at hotel

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Transfer to activities via private coach

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Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)

A truly the place for art lovers. This beautiful monumental building at the Pathumwan junction serves as a learning center for modern and contemporary art as well as a place that sparks inspirational creativity

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Jim Thompson's House

A stunning collection of six traditional Thai-style teak houses adorned with an impressive collection of Asian art and antiques. Learn of his pivotal role in reviving Thailand's silk industry after World War II

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Saen Saeb Canal

Stroll along the canal where vibrant murals from the annual Bukruk street art festival transform the urban landscape into a vivid open-air gallery

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Chalerm La Park

Also known as 'Graffiti Park,' and witness a lively artistic 'battle' among local talents crafting bold, colorful masterpieces

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Group Dinner

Located at the Jim Thompson Restaurant, or similar

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Return to hotel via private coach

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Riva Surya Bangkok or similar

Day 5- Taste of Bangkok

January 23, 2027
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Savor the flavors of Northern Thailand

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Breakfast at hotel

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Free Morning

Enjoy time for independent exploration

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Transfer to workshop via private coach

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Cooking Workshop + Market

Enjoy an afternoon at the Blue Elephant Restaurant with a professional chef.

Head to the local market and discover local fruits and vegetables.

Learn how to select ingredients for your cooking workshop, where you will create up to four dishes. Enjoy guidance at your individual cooking station, with dish selection based on seasonal availability. Finally, savor your creations alongside additional dishes prepared by the restaurant kitchen

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Return to hotel via private coach

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Remainder of day on own leisure

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Riva Surya Bangkok or similar

Day 6 - Bangkok to Ayutthaya and Khao Yai

January 24, 2027
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Journey from Bangkok to Ayutthaya and Khao Yai

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel.
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Private coach transfer to Ayutthaya

DepartureBangkok
DestinationAyutthaya
Board your coach for the 2hr drive to Ayutthaya, the Kingdom’s second capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in 700 years of history.
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Bang Pa-In Palace Visit

Stop enroute at Bang Pa-In Palace with your guide – this is the King’s former summer residence built in the 17th century, showcasing a unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles.
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Ayutthaya Historic Ruins Exploration

Explore Ayutthaya’s historic ruins, including Wat Phra Mahathat, famous for the Buddha's head entwined within the roots of a banyan tree; Wat Phra Si Sanphet, part of the Royal Palace with its bell-shaped pagodas; Wat Lokayasutharam, home to the giant reclining Buddha; and the well-preserved Wat Ratchaburana and Wat Chai Mongkol.
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Chao Phraya River Rice Barge Cruise

Step aboard a traditional teak rice barge and enjoy a sumptuous Thai feast while cruising along the majestic Chao Phraya River and its tributaries. Absorb the romantic atmosphere of Ayutthaya Island while passing iconic landmarks such as The Phet Fortress, Wat Phananchoeng, Wat Putthaisawan, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Wat Chai Watthanaram, and the Memorial Stupa of Queen Suriyothai. Experience local life along the riverbanks and savor a delightful array of authentic Thai dishes prepared onboard.
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Coach transfer to Khao Yai accommodations

DepartureAyutthaya
DestinationKhao Yai
Back on land, drive on to your accommodations (~2.50hrs).
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Dinner at hotel or local restaurant

Enjoy dinner at the hotel or local restaurant, included in cost.
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Recall Isaan Isaan or similar

Overnight at Recall Isaan Isaan or similar.

Day 7 - Khao Yai National Park and Art Forest

January 25, 2027
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Kayaking, Art Forest, and Nature Printmaking

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel.
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Kayaking in Khao Yai National Park

Travel via private coach to the Khao Yai National Park and enjoy a kayaking paddle through the natural springs; observe the fish swimming in the crystal-clear water below a lush “tree tunnel” that keeps everyone cool amidst a tropical backdrop. Suitable for beginners.
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Group lunch

Group lunch included.
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Khao Yai Art Forest Visit

Travel to Khao Yai Art Forest, also known as Silpa Pa or “art in the forest,” an unconventional art space open to the public for over a year.
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Nature Printmaking Workshop

Participate in a nature printmaking workshop that connects you with the landscape through simple, creative techniques. Using natural materials inspired by the surrounding forest, create unique artworks shaped by nature itself.
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Group dinner and seasonal tasting experience

Group dinner and seasonal tasting experience by Chef Wuttisak and his team, use of fresh and local ingredients.
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Transfer to hotel via private coach

DepartureKhao Yai Art Forest
DestinationRecall Isaan Isaan or similar
Transfer to the hotel via private coach.
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Recall Isaan Isaan or similar

Overnight at Recall Isaan Isaan or similar.

Day 8- Kho Yai to Chiang Rai

January 26, 2027
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Fly from Kho Yai to Chiang Rai

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel, followed by check-out, store luggage as needed.
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Free morning

Depending on your flight arrangements, morning free for independent exploration

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Flight to Chaing Rai (CEI)

Flight from Don Muang (DMK) to Chaing Rai (CEI), not included in program cost

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Group airport transfer- airport to hotel

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The Legend Chiang or similar

Day 9 - Chiang Rai Galleries

January 27, 2027
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A day of art in Chiang Rai

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Breakfast at hotel

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Private coach to group activities

Make your own way to the airport for your flight home.
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Art Bridge Gallery

A contemporary art space dedicated to connecting artists, communities, and cultural narratives. The gallery serves as a platform for emerging and established artists, fostering dialogue across disciplines through exhibitions, installations, and community-driven programs

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Group lunch at local restaurant

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Baan Dam Museum (Black House)

Designed by National Artist Thawan Duchanee, Baan Dam Museum the museum blends architecture, sculpture, and painting to explore themes of life, death, spirituality, and human nature

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The Legend Chiang or similar

Day 10 - Chiang Rei to Chiang Mai

January 28, 2027
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Tea and indigo dyes on your way to Chiang Mai

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel, followed by check-out

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Private coach to Chiang Mai via Chiang Dao

Making stops along the way

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Arakasa Tea Garden

Enjoy a guided stroll through the gardens, learn the artistry behind tea cultivation, from hand-rolling to machine processing.

Observe skilled tea pluckers at work, enjoy a cup of organic green tea with authentic Thai snacks while soaking in breathtaking mountain views.

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Indigo Dyeing Workshop

Hosted by a local couple at their home studio. Gain insight into indigo cultivation, traditional processing methods, and intricate design techniques as you craft your unique fabric creations.

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Continue on to Chiang Mai

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The Rim Hotel or similar

Day 11 - Chiang Mai Artistry

January 29, 2027
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Immerse in the local artistry of Chiang Mai

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel

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Private coach transfers to all group activities

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Kalm village Arts and Crafts Gallery

Kalm Village is an Art, Crafts, and Culture Center in the heart of Old Town Chiang Mai. Through architecture, objects, food, archives, workshops, dynamic exhibitions, residency programs, happenings, and conversations, the center aims to empower local wisdom, makers, and communities

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Mini Frame Loom Workshop in collaboration with Rada Loom

The workshop introduces you to weaving using a simple frame loom and all-natural dyed yarns. Create your own textile design to take home, along with the loom to continue weaving anywhere

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Group lunch at local restaurant

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Silver Workshop

At Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple), a central Chiang Mai temple dating back to the 16th century, is renowned for its gleaming silver exterior. Explore the temple complex and visit the silver-working schoolhouse, where traditional silver craftsmanship is preserved

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Guided food market experience

Discover the vibrant culinary scene of Chiang Mai with a local foodie guide. Begin at Chang Phuek Gate Market, tasting Northern Thai Street foods such as Northern sausage, chili paste, Laab, Kanom Jeen, and traditional Thai desserts like Thai custard, Sweet Golden Drop, and Coconut Jelly

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The Rim Hotel or similar

Day 12 - Chiang Mai Elephants

January 30, 2027
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Elephant Excursion

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel

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Private coach transfer

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Elephant Nature Park

Observe and learn about these beautiful animals. Hear the personal stories of the rescued elephants as told by expert guides; learn how the Elephant Nature Park is supporting the treatment and care of Thailand’s dwindling elephant population.

Opportunity to feed the elephants from the viewing platform, walk with the park staff into the river to bathe the elephants, or stay onshore and observe

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Buffet lunch at the elephant park

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Group transfer to hotel before dinner

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Group farewell dinner at local restaurant

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The Rim Hotel or similar

Day 13 - Chiang Mai - Bangkok

January 31, 2027
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Depart Chiang Mai, Optional Bangkok Stay

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Breakfast at hotel

Breakfast at hotel, followed by check-out, store luggage as needed
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Make your own way to the airport

Make your own way to the airport for your flight home.
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Flight to Bangkok not included

Flight to Bangkok not included; additional $150 per person if needed.
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Vismaya Suvarnabhumi airport hotel

Additional optional night at Vismaya Suvarnabhumi airport hotel (includes free hotel/airport shuttle): $65 per night per room
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Map

1. Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)

999 หมู่ 1 Nong Prue, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand

2. Riva Surya Bangkok

23 Phra Arthit Rd, Chana Songkhram, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

3. Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha)

2 Sanam Chai Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

4. Lak Muang City Pillar

Lak Muang Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

5. Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew

Na Phra Lan Rd, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand

6. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)

939 Rama I Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

7. Jim Thompson House

6 Soi Kasemsan 2, Rama 1 Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

8. Blue Elephant Restaurant Bangkok

233 S Sathorn Rd, Khwaeng Yan Nawa, Sathon, Bangkok 10120, Thailand

9. Bang Pa-In Palace

Ban Len, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13160, Thailand

10. Ayutthaya Historic Park

Pratuchai, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand

11. Recall Isaan Isaan Hotel

99/22 Moo 1, Thanarat Road, Moo See, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand

12. Khao Yai National Park

Hin Tung, Mueang Nakhon Nayok District, Nakhon Nayok 26000, Thailand

13. Khao Yai Art Forest (Silpa Pa)

Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand

14. Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)

222 Vibhavadi Rangsit Rd, Sanambin, Don Mueang, Bangkok 10210, Thailand

15. The Legend Chiang Rai Boutique River Resort & Spa

124/15 Moo 21, Kohloy Road, Robwiang, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57000, Thailand

16. Art Bridge Chiang Rai

551 Moo 1, Ban Du, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand

17. Baan Dam Museum (Black House)

414 Moo 13, Nang Lae, Mueang Chiang Rai District, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand

18. Araksa Tea Garden (Chiang Dao)

Moo 10, Baan Mae Ton Noon, T. Mae Taeng, Chiang Dao District, Chiang Mai 50170, Thailand

19. The Rim Chiang Mai

51/2 Arrak Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

20. Kalm Village Art and Craft Gallery

28 Nantaram Rd, Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

21. Wat Sri Suphan (Silver Temple)

100 Wua Lai Rd, Hai Ya, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

22. Chang Phuek Gate Market

Manee Nopparat Rd, Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

23. Chiang Mai Gate Market

Bumrung Buri Rd, Phra Sing, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand

24. Elephant Nature Park

209/2 Sridom Chai Road, Mae Taeng District, Chiang Mai 50150, Thailand

25. Vismaya Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel

98 Moo 15 Kingkaew 43, Racha Thewa, Bang Phli District, Samut Prakan 10540, Thailand