The Ada House journal
Stories from Chiang Mai
Local culture, hidden corners and practical tips — from the people who actually live here.
Chiang Dao: caves, a limestone giant & quiet mountain air
A dramatic limestone mountain, a sacred cave lit by lanterns, and valley air so quiet you can hear yourself think. Chiang Dao is the city's great reset.
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Money & banking in Chiang Mai: cash, cards & ATMs
Cash is still king, ATMs charge a sting, and QR is everywhere — but not always for visitors. Here's how to handle money in Chiang Mai without overpaying.
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Sak Yant: Thailand's sacred tattoos, with respect
A Sak Yant is a blessing in ink — protection, luck and a moral commitment, not a holiday souvenir. Here's how to understand and approach the tradition with respect.
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Healthcare in Chiang Mai: hospitals, pharmacies & dentists
Good hospitals, cheap pharmacies and world-class dental work for a fraction of Western prices — but you still want insurance. Here's the honest rundown.
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The best specialty coffee around Nimman
Chiang Mai punches absurdly above its weight for coffee, and the best of it starts right next door. Here's where we go, and what to order.
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Wat Pha Lat: the jungle temple on the Monk's Trail
Most people drive up the mountain. Our favourite way is to walk it — a shaded jungle trail to a moss-covered hidden temple. Here's how.
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Renting a scooter in Chiang Mai: the honest guide
A scooter is the cheapest freedom in Chiang Mai — and the single biggest real risk. Here's how to do it legally, safely and without the classic scams.
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A short history of Lanna, the kingdom behind Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai was the capital of its own kingdom long before it was Thai. A little Lanna history changes how you see the moat, the temples and the food.
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Yoga & meditation retreats in Chiang Mai
From a drop-in class between work calls to a silent forest-temple retreat, Chiang Mai makes it easy to slow down. Here's the full spectrum of wellness here.
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Khao soi: Chiang Mai's signature noodle bowl
If you eat one thing in Chiang Mai, make it khao soi. Here's what's in the bowl, how to eat it like a local, and where we send guests for the best.
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Grocery shopping in Chiang Mai: markets to supermarkets
From 15-baht bunches of bananas at the morning market to imported cheese at Rimping — here's how to stock your kitchen in Chiang Mai at any budget.
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Settling in for a month: SIM, laundry, coworking & gym
The first day of a long stay is mostly admin. Get these four things sorted and the whole month opens up. Here's our settling-in checklist.
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