Chiang Mai is the largest city in northern Thailand. Located 700 kilometers north of Bangkok, Chiang Mai is Thai for "New City." It enjoys a strategic location on the river Ping. The city has a tropical savanna climate, keeping the weather warm year-round. Plan a trip to Chiang Mai for a relaxing vacation. Indulge in activities, or just take a stroll through the lanes of the city to soak in the Thai culture.
Plan at least a weeklong trip to Chiang Mai to enjoy this culturally significant city. Remember to pre-book your stay and activities to avoid any last-minute hassles. Also, buy travel medical insurance to secure your Chiang Mai trip.
Chiang Mai Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
There are both public and private hospitals available in Chiang Mai. The public facilities are often overcrowded, while private hospitals can be quite expensive. In order to take advantage of the best and most timely treatment available, it is important to have travel medical insurance to provide coverage for your treatment costs.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Chiang Mai?
The government of Thailand only requires visitors to have travel medical insurance covering COVID-19 if they are traveling to a country that requires a negative COVID-19 test for entry after departing Thailand.
But regardless of the requirement, travel medical insurance can offer coverage if you get sick from coronavirus or any other illness while on you trip. Be sure to review the specific plan you are considering, so you understand the exact coverage it offers.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Chiang Mai?
If you were to get sick or injured on your trip to Chiang Mai, you would want to receive the best treatment available, and this is often at private hospitals. These private facilities can provide excellent care, but it comes at a price. Without travel medical insurance, you could find yourself responsible for large medical bills that severely damage your budget.
Travel medical insurance is designed to provide financial coverage for emergency medical treatment when you're in a country outside your own; where your domestic health insurance will likely not provide adequate coverage. Buy travel medical insurance so you can be protected from the high cost of medical treatment abroad.
Things to Do for Travelers in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is the base of most activities in the north of Thailand. Friendly locals will make you feel welcomed in the city, and beautiful landscapes are a delight to see. Chiang Mai is home to an amazing array of temples, markets, and national parks.
Here is our list of the best five things to do in while in Chiang Mai:
Visit Doi Suthep
One of the most significant spiritual places in Thailand, Wat Doi Suthep dates back 700 years. A Thai saying goes, "If you have not tasted Khao Soi and have not visited Doi Suthep, then you have not visited Chiang Mai." The magnificent beauty of Doi Suthep attracts thousands of foreigners and locals. The pagoda is said to contain the relics of Buddha himself.
The pagoda is open from 6:00 A.M. until 6:00 P.M. Surrounded by stunning natural splendor, this place offers a beautiful view any time of the day. However, you should visit the pagoda early in the morning if you plan to climb the steep 304 stairs. Alternatively, you can also reach the top on a funicular.
Take a Tour of City Temples
Chiang Mai is filled with old temples, some dating back to the 13th century. The city temples are closely located and you can easily reach them all on foot. Walk through the small lanes while admiring the ancient beauty of Chiang Mai. Some of the temples worth visiting are Wat Chiang Man, Wat Jet Yot, and Wat Chedi Luang.
Visit the Elephant National Park
Elephant national park in Chiang Mai is home to rescued and injured elephants. You can spend a day or a week volunteering at the park. It is also a great place to enjoy an elephant safari and interact with the elephants.
Take a Stroll at the Night Bazaar
Chiang Mai is famous for its beautiful handcrafted goods. The night market is open from 6:00 P.M. to 12:00 A.M. You can bargain to get the items you love at the best price. The Night Bazaar at Chiang Mai is the largest in Thailand.
Ride a Scooter around the Samoeng Loop
Rent a motor scooter and explore the beautiful Samoeng Loop to reach Chaing Mai. Stunning mountains offer views to remember. While riding this 100-kilometer route, you will pass by rustic restaurants, cafes, and strawberry fields. Make sure your vehicle is insured.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai is a dream destination for many. It is a relatively safe city for visitors. However, it is good to take precautions when traveling to an international destination to protect yourself from any travel risks that may come up.
- Air quality in Chiang Mai may be poor compared to what you're used to. Exercise caution or wear a mask if you have existing respiratory problems.
- Petty crime is possible. Keep your wallet and valuables secure against pickpockets, particularly in the night markets.
- Watch out for credit card scams. When paying for an item via credit card, never allow the clerk to take your card out of sight.
- Watch for traffic and pedestrians while crossing or driving on roads. Some parts of the city lack sidewalks.
Before You Travel to Chiang Mai - Do This
Now that you are ready with an itinerary, it is good to know what to do before you travel to Chiang Mai. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Keep medicines handy. Consult your doctor before traveling and pack all the essential medicines in case of any emergency. Keep them in an easy-to-reach place in case you need them.
- Safeguard your documents. Pack your passport and other important documents in a theft-proof bag to keep them safe.
- Pack according to the weather. Chiang Mai is warm all year long. Pack light, comfortable clothing, and don't forget the sunglasses, sunblock and comfortable shoes.
- Purchase travel medical insurance to protect your finances in case of unexpected events.