When it comes to lunch time, take a break and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere at Fah Tara Cafe. Nestled in the heart of the old city, this cafe is a pleasant oasis - the perfect place to rest during your visit of the old city. Connected to the equally beautiful Fah Lanna Spa, this coffee-shop has a rich and earthy atmosphere with Northern Thai decorative touches. Inside, you will find comfortable and large leather sofas and wooden furniture. The back of the cafe hides a quiet little patio with lush of greenery and water feature. Both spots are refreshing and relaxing! Don’t miss tasting house’s signature drink: Fah Tara Tropical (a freshly blended lemonade infused with a blend of Thai herbs) and for lunch, indulge in one of their delicious Thai dishes such as Shrimp Pad Thai (both sweet and tangy with the perfect amount of peanuts taste on top) or Chicken Khao Soi (a Lanna speciality of noodle curry soup). If you are missing European cuisine, go for one of their salad or a delicious all day-breakfast. (See City Map E3)
Walking a few hundreds meters from Fah Tara Cafe, you will arrive at the Lanna Folklife Museum. This museum, located right in the centre of the old city, is a great introduction to the history of the people in Chiang Mai area. It is well done with tableaus that really bring the history to life. (open 9am to 4pmclosed on Mondays). (See City Map E3)
And, as Chiang Mai is also a city of art, discover the beautiful Supachet Studio and meet with renowned artist Supachet Bhumakarn. The studio is located on Ratchadamnoen Road, just 100 meters from the
Lanna Folklife Museum. Inspired by rabbits and elephants, this charming gallery and shop is run by the artist, who crafts acrylic and oil paintings figurines, silver jewelry and statues of animals. Often the artist will be at work at second floor of his studio, it’s a gallery full with creative paintings and he is always up for a friendly chat with visitors about his work. In this studio, you can buy Supachet’s artwork on large canvas or on smaller bookmarks, gift cards, t-shirts, bags and ceramics. (See City Map E4)
Last but not least, you cannot leave Chiang Mai city without shopping at the Sunday Walking Street. Regarded as the best and the model of all walking streets in Thailand, the Sunday Walking Street of Chiang Mai has become one of the top tourist activity in Chiang Mai. And even local residents visit once in a while and get a foot massage. Every Sunday, the Chiang Mai Walking Street serves as a venue for all kinds of local events, from dance recitals to beauty pageants and music shows. The street offers a vibrant spectrum of arts, crafts, music, and food with hand made quality goods and souvenirs that echo the spirit of Northern Thailand. (See City Map E4) As you can see, Chiang Mai’s old city has a lot to offer and the best way to see it is to take the time and wander in the streets of the old city! Enjoy your holiday
